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<p>A new, terrifying drone footage captured off the coast of California has shocked the netizens, showing how close the great white sharks swim to humans. The footage shot by wildlife photographer Kevin Christopherson at San Onofre State Beach, a popular surfing destination in San Diego shows the moment unsuspecting surfers received the company of these sharks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the video, at least three huge great white sharks can be seen swimming around at least a dozen surfers. Most of them did not seem to have any clue that the apex predators were a few metres away from them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is not the first instance when sharks have been spotted near the beach. Last year in October, during one of the surfing competitions, veteran surf photographer Jordan Anast managed to capture a great white rocketing out of the water and then splashing down.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, a recent study by California State University found that sharks swim much closer to humans than previously imagined. The researchers arrived at the conclusion after conducting over 1,500 drone flights spanning two years in southern Santa Barbara County and central San Diego County.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"In both spots, the sharks were observed swimming near humans on 97 per cent of the days surveyed, and often within 50 yards of wave breaks. The sharks generally came closest to surfers and stand-up paddle boarders," the study revealed.&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Similar footage emerged last week</strong></h2>

<p>The footage of sharks swimming close to humans comes barely a week after a similar video surfaced from Florida's Navarre beach. One of the videos that went viral at the time showed a shark swimming near the crowd, flapping its fins and tail while the confused and nervous beachgoers looked for safer options.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The video showed terrified men, women and children as they hurried out of the water as soon as they caught sight of the shark. In the blink of an eye, a fun and frolic day at the beach turned into nothing short of a nightmare.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sydney-swimmer-killed-in-a-shark-attack-453976"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Sydney swimmer killed in a shark attack</strong></a></p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/jaws-in-real-life-russian-man-ripped-apart-in-shark-attack-off-egypts-red-sea-resort-602480#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></p>

<p>Last month, in what was a scene straight out of Steven Spielberg's&nbsp;<em>Jaws</em>&nbsp;movie, a Russian man was ripped and mauled apart by a lone shark off one of Egypt's Red Sea resorts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>ministry which posted a message on Facebook saying: "An attack by a tiger shark on a beachgoer... led to his death."</p>

<p>The ministry added it had captured the shark "to inspect it", adding the mammal displayed "abnormal behaviour... resulting in the incident".&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/jaws-in-real-life-russian-man-ripped-apart-in-shark-attack-off-egypts-red-sea-resort-602480"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;JAWS in real life: Russian man ripped apart in shark attack off Egypt’s Red Sea resort</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Previous incidents of shark attacks&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to experts, the great whites are most commonly known for attacking humans followed by the tiger sharks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this year in February, a 59-year-old Australian tourist was killed by a shark near a beach in the French Pacific territory of New Caledonia. At the time of his death, the man was swimming close to a pontoon and was 150 metres away from the shore when the shark attacked.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A new, terrifying drone footage captured off the coast of California has shocked the netizens, showing how close the great white sharks swim to humans. The footage shot by wildlife photographer Kevin Christopherson at San Onofre State Beach, a popular surfing destination in San Diego shows the moment unsuspecting surfers received the company of these sharks.

A new, terrifying drone footage captured off the coast of California has shocked the netizens, showing how close the great white sharks swim to humans. The footage shot by wildlife photographer Kevin Christopherson at San Onofre State Beach, a popular surfing destination in San Diego shows the moment unsuspecting surfers received the company of these sharks. In the video, at least three huge great white sharks can be seen swimming around at least a dozen surfers. Most of them did not seem to have any clue that the apex predators were a few metres away from them. This is not the first instance when sharks have been spotted near the beach. Last year in October, during one of the surfing competitions, veteran surf photographer Jordan Anast managed to capture a great white rocketing out of the water and then splashing down. Notably, a recent study by California State University found that sharks swim much closer to humans than previously imagined. The researchers arrived at the conclusion after conducting over 1,500 drone flights spanning two years in southern Santa Barbara County and central San Diego County. "In both spots, the sharks were observed swimming near humans on 97 per cent of the days surveyed, and often within 50 yards of wave breaks. The sharks generally came closest to surfers and stand-up paddle boarders," the study revealed. × Similar footage emerged last week The footage of sharks swimming close to humans comes barely a week after a similar video surfaced from Florida's Navarre beach. One of the videos that went viral at the time showed a shark swimming near the crowd, flapping its fins and tail while the confused and nervous beachgoers looked for safer options. The video showed terrified men, women and children as they hurried out of the water as soon as they caught sight of the shark. In the blink of an eye, a fun and frolic day at the beach turned into nothing short of a nightmare. WATCH | Sydney swimmer killed in a shark attack × Last month, in what was a scene straight out of Steven Spielberg's Jaws movie, a Russian man was ripped and mauled apart by a lone shark off one of Egypt's Red Sea resorts. ministry which posted a message on Facebook saying: "An attack by a tiger shark on a beachgoer... led to his death." The ministry added it had captured the shark "to inspect it", adding the mammal displayed "abnormal behaviour... resulting in the incident". Also read | JAWS in real life: Russian man ripped apart in shark attack off Egypt’s Red Sea resort Previous incidents of shark attacks According to experts, the great whites are most commonly known for attacking humans followed by the tiger sharks. Earlier this year in February, a 59-year-old Australian tourist was killed by a shark near a beach in the French Pacific territory of New Caledonia. At the time of his death, the man was swimming close to a pontoon and was 150 metres away from the shore when the shark attacked. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

WATCH | Great white sharks swim dangerously close to surfers, drone footage shows

Growing landslide menaces Rolling Hills estates, forcing evacuations

Charles Manson the American cult head who terrorized Los Angeles in 1969 is back in the news again because a member of the so-called Manson family has been let out of jail. Leslie Van Houten was only 19 years old when she followed Manson's orders and went on a killing spree. After her conviction, she spent 53 years in prison. In May a California appeals court overruled the Californian government and found that Van Houten was entitled to parole.

Californian court grants parole to Manson Murderer Leslie Van Houten

As drought dried up rivers in California, the state's officials have decided to put a ban on salmon fishing. In force since April along the entire coast of the golden state and parts of neighbouring Oregon, the ban is supposed to last until the end of the fishing season in September.

Droughts in California hamper salmon fishing

<p>In a tragic event that took place on Saturday morning, a small corporate jet crashed and burst into flames near French Valley Airport of Riverside County in California. The site is located approximately 85 miles south of Los Angeles. All six individuals on board the Cessna C550 business jet lost their lives in the devastating incident, as confirmed by local and federal authorities.</p>

<p>According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the ill-fated aircraft was en route from Las Vegas when the crash occurred at approximately 4:15 am local time (0815 GMT). The FAA statement revealed that the plane crashed in a field near the airport. At this time, no details have been released regarding the identities of the passengers.</p>

<h2><strong>All six passengers declared dead</strong></h2>

<p>Flight tracking data obtained from the website FlightAware indicates that there was only one business jet travelling from Las Vegas to French Valley during the given timeframe. The aircraft was observed circling once near the crash site before descending rapidly.</p>

<p>First responders from the Riverside County Sheriff's Office swiftly arrived at the scene of the accident. They discovered the aircraft fully engulfed in flames in a field adjacent to the airport. Tragically, all six occupants were pronounced dead.</p>

<h2><strong>Crash sparks bushfire</strong></h2>

<p>The crash also sparked a bushfire at the incident site, which ended up burning an acre of land. Later, it was contained by members of the fire department.</p>

<p>The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will conduct a thorough investigation into the crash, as announced by the FAA. The NTSB's efforts will focus on determining the cause of the crash and uncovering any contributing factors.</p>

<h2><strong>Cause of the accident</strong></h2>

<p>The cause of the crash was not known yet but media reports highlighted the area where the crash happened was engulfed by dense fog at the time of the accident.</p>

<p>This is the second fatal plane crash near the French Valley Airport in less than a week; on 4 July, another small plane crashed, killing the pilot.</p>

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In a tragic event that took place on Saturday morning, a small corporate jet crashed and burst into flames near French Valley Airport of Riverside County in California.

In a tragic event that took place on Saturday morning, a small corporate jet crashed and burst into flames near French Valley Airport of Riverside County in California. The site is located approximately 85 miles south of Los Angeles. All six individuals on board the Cessna C550 business jet lost their lives in the devastating incident, as confirmed by local and federal authorities. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the ill-fated aircraft was en route from Las Vegas when the crash occurred at approximately 4:15 am local time (0815 GMT). The FAA statement revealed that the plane crashed in a field near the airport. At this time, no details have been released regarding the identities of the passengers. All six passengers declared dead Flight tracking data obtained from the website FlightAware indicates that there was only one business jet travelling from Las Vegas to French Valley during the given timeframe. The aircraft was observed circling once near the crash site before descending rapidly. First responders from the Riverside County Sheriff's Office swiftly arrived at the scene of the accident. They discovered the aircraft fully engulfed in flames in a field adjacent to the airport. Tragically, all six occupants were pronounced dead. Crash sparks bushfire The crash also sparked a bushfire at the incident site, which ended up burning an acre of land. Later, it was contained by members of the fire department. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will conduct a thorough investigation into the crash, as announced by the FAA. The NTSB's efforts will focus on determining the cause of the crash and uncovering any contributing factors. Cause of the accident The cause of the crash was not known yet but media reports highlighted the area where the crash happened was engulfed by dense fog at the time of the accident. This is the second fatal plane crash near the French Valley Airport in less than a week; on 4 July, another small plane crashed, killing the pilot. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Tragic plane crash in California leaves six dead, sparks bushfire at incident site

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidc27rJ20moJ3w" /><meta charset="utf-8" />A man from the US state of California pleaded guilty to hiding his mother's death for more than 30 years to collect government benefits worth over $800,000. In a statement on June 27, the US Attorney's Office, Southern District of California, said that the man,&nbsp;Donald Felix Zampach, admitted that he fraudulently concealed his mother's death for decades and he received and laundered hundreds of thousands of dollars in government benefits intended for her&nbsp;that should have ceased upon her death.</p>

<p>As per the plea agreement, Zampach's mother died in Japan in 1990. At the time of her death, "she was receiving a widow’s pension from the Social Security Administration and an annuity from the Department of Defense Finance Accounting Service."</p>

<p>Shortly before Zampach's mother died, the man fraudulently conveyed her Poway home and filed for Chapter 7 personal bankruptcy, disclosing neither his ownership of the Poway home nor the government benefits payments he was receiving.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How Zampach received the govt benefits</strong></h2>

<p>The US Attorney's Office's statement said that after his mother died, Zampach maintained her bank accounts, forged her signature on eligibility certificates to keep government benefits in pay, and also filed forged federal income tax returns, posing as his mother, for over two decades.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Zampach admitted that between November 1990 and September 2022, he received at least $830,238 in stolen public money intended for his mother," the statement said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added that the California man further admitted to using his mother's identity to fraudulently open credit accounts with at least nine different financial institutions. These institutions suffered losses of over $28,000.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Zampach admitted to laundering the stolen money to pay off the mortgage on his Poway home, in order to conceal both his ownership of the Poway home and the fact that the money he used constituted criminal proceeds of his fraud," the statement further said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Zampach to pay over $830,000 in criminal forfeiture</strong></h2>

<p>Zampach has agreed to pay more than $830,000 in criminal forfeiture, including the forfeiture of his Poway home to make restitution for his crimes. US Attorney Randy Grossman said this crime is believed to be the longest-running and largest fraud of its kind in the Southern District of California.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This was an elaborate fraud spanning more than three decades that required aggressive action and deceit to maintain the ruse. He filed false income tax returns, posed as his mother and signed her name to many documents, and when investigators caught up to him, he continued to claim she was still alive," Attorney Grossman added.&nbsp;</p>

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A man from the US state of California pleaded guilty to hiding his mother's death for more than 30 years to collect government benefits worth over $800,000. In a statement on June 27, the US Attorney's Office, Southern District of California, said that the man, Donald Felix Zampach, admitted that he fraudulently concealed his mother's death for decades and he received and laundered hundreds of thousands of dollars in government benefits intended for her that should have ceased upon her death.

A man from the US state of California pleaded guilty to hiding his mother's death for more than 30 years to collect government benefits worth over $800,000. In a statement on June 27, the US Attorney's Office, Southern District of California, said that the man, Donald Felix Zampach, admitted that he fraudulently concealed his mother's death for decades and he received and laundered hundreds of thousands of dollars in government benefits intended for her that should have ceased upon her death. As per the plea agreement, Zampach's mother died in Japan in 1990. At the time of her death, "she was receiving a widow’s pension from the Social Security Administration and an annuity from the Department of Defense Finance Accounting Service." Shortly before Zampach's mother died, the man fraudulently conveyed her Poway home and filed for Chapter 7 personal bankruptcy, disclosing neither his ownership of the Poway home nor the government benefits payments he was receiving. How Zampach received the govt benefits The US Attorney's Office's statement said that after his mother died, Zampach maintained her bank accounts, forged her signature on eligibility certificates to keep government benefits in pay, and also filed forged federal income tax returns, posing as his mother, for over two decades. "Zampach admitted that between November 1990 and September 2022, he received at least $830,238 in stolen public money intended for his mother," the statement said. It added that the California man further admitted to using his mother's identity to fraudulently open credit accounts with at least nine different financial institutions. These institutions suffered losses of over $28,000. "Zampach admitted to laundering the stolen money to pay off the mortgage on his Poway home, in order to conceal both his ownership of the Poway home and the fact that the money he used constituted criminal proceeds of his fraud," the statement further said. Zampach to pay over $830,000 in criminal forfeiture Zampach has agreed to pay more than $830,000 in criminal forfeiture, including the forfeiture of his Poway home to make restitution for his crimes. US Attorney Randy Grossman said this crime is believed to be the longest-running and largest fraud of its kind in the Southern District of California. "This was an elaborate fraud spanning more than three decades that required aggressive action and deceit to maintain the ruse. He filed false income tax returns, posed as his mother and signed her name to many documents, and when investigators caught up to him, he continued to claim she was still alive," Attorney Grossman added. 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 man hid mother's death for over 30 years, collected govt benefits worth over $800,000

<p>Thousands of hotel workers in Los Angeles, California have gone on strike demanding better wages and benefits. The strike began on Sunday morning (July 2). This has kicked off what is expected to be one of the largest US. hotel strikes in recent history.</p>

<p>Unite Here Local 11, a union which represents thousands of cooks, dishwashers, room attendants, servers, bellmen and front desk executives, released a statement and said that the union members are struggling to afford housing in the cities where they work. The union also underlined that many of its members have faced job cuts during the Covid pandemic while industry profits soared.</p>

<p>A union spokesperson said workers at hotels across the region, including the InterContinental and Hotel Indigo, had walked off the job on Sunday, during a busy weekend ahead of the July Fourth holiday.</p>

<p>Just last month, members of Unite Here Local 11 voted 96 per cent in favour of the strike. The union is now demanding better wages, improved healthcare benefits, higher pension contributions along with less strenuous workload.</p>

<p>The union is asking for an immediate increase of USD 5 in hourly wages and an annual boost of three&nbsp;per cent in the workers' three-year contracts.</p>

<p>Additionally, the union is intending to create a "hospitality workforce housing fund" in order to help workers tackle the soaring cost of living in greater Los Angeles. Many employees are reportedly saying that they cannot afford to live near their jobs.</p>

<h2><strong>“The industry got bailouts while we got cuts”</strong></h2>

<p>“Our members were devastated first by the pandemic, and now by the greed of their bosses,” union co-president Kurt Petersen said in a statement, as reported by The Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“The industry got bailouts while we got cuts.”</p>

<p>Kicking off Saturday's strike, more than 500 workers at the downtown InterContinental and Indigo hotels, walked out, as reported by the Los Angeles Times. The striking workers were joined shortly by those at DoubleTree by Hilton, the Biltmore Los Angeles and Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort &amp; Spa in Dana Point.</p>

<p>The InterContinental reportedly has seen staff cuts during the pandemic. This has resulted in fewer workers with a greater workload</p>

<p>“Before, we had 800 [people]. Now we have 500,” said &nbsp;Diana Rios Sanchez, a supervisor and former room attendant at the InterContinental. She was quoted by the LA Times.</p>

<p>“Now we’re basically doing the job of two or three.”</p>

<p>Unite Here Local 11 “has not budged from its opening demand two months ago of up to a 40 per cent&nbsp;wage increase and an over 28 per cent&nbsp;increase in benefit costs”, the hotel group said in an email on Friday to the Los Angeles Times.</p>

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Thousands of hotel workers in Los Angeles, California have gone on strike demanding better wages and benefits. The strike began on Sunday morning (July 2). This has kicked off what is expected to be one of the largest US.

Thousands of hotel workers in Los Angeles, California have gone on strike demanding better wages and benefits. The strike began on Sunday morning (July 2). This has kicked off what is expected to be one of the largest US. hotel strikes in recent history. Unite Here Local 11, a union which represents thousands of cooks, dishwashers, room attendants, servers, bellmen and front desk executives, released a statement and said that the union members are struggling to afford housing in the cities where they work. The union also underlined that many of its members have faced job cuts during the Covid pandemic while industry profits soared. A union spokesperson said workers at hotels across the region, including the InterContinental and Hotel Indigo, had walked off the job on Sunday, during a busy weekend ahead of the July Fourth holiday. Just last month, members of Unite Here Local 11 voted 96 per cent in favour of the strike. The union is now demanding better wages, improved healthcare benefits, higher pension contributions along with less strenuous workload. The union is asking for an immediate increase of USD 5 in hourly wages and an annual boost of three per cent in the workers' three-year contracts. Additionally, the union is intending to create a "hospitality workforce housing fund" in order to help workers tackle the soaring cost of living in greater Los Angeles. Many employees are reportedly saying that they cannot afford to live near their jobs. “The industry got bailouts while we got cuts” “Our members were devastated first by the pandemic, and now by the greed of their bosses,” union co-president Kurt Petersen said in a statement, as reported by The Guardian. “The industry got bailouts while we got cuts.” Kicking off Saturday's strike, more than 500 workers at the downtown InterContinental and Indigo hotels, walked out, as reported by the Los Angeles Times. The striking workers were joined shortly by those at DoubleTree by Hilton, the Biltmore Los Angeles and Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort & Spa in Dana Point. The InterContinental reportedly has seen staff cuts during the pandemic. This has resulted in fewer workers with a greater workload “Before, we had 800 [people]. Now we have 500,” said Diana Rios Sanchez, a supervisor and former room attendant at the InterContinental. She was quoted by the LA Times. “Now we’re basically doing the job of two or three.” Unite Here Local 11 “has not budged from its opening demand two months ago of up to a 40 per cent wage increase and an over 28 per cent increase in benefit costs”, the hotel group said in an email on Friday to the Los Angeles Times. 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 ×

Hotel workers in LA go on strike demanding higher wages

A California-based law firm is launching a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging the artificial-intelligence company that created popular chatbot ChatGPT massively violated the copyrights and privacy of countless people when it used data scraped from the internet to train its tech.

US law firm sues ChatGPT maker, OpenAI over violation of privacy

Ahead of the release of the highly anticipated Barbie movie, a real-life Barbie dreamhouse is opening its doors in Malibu, California.

Barbie opens the doors to her real-life Malibu Dreamhouse

<p>A California man was sentenced to six years and nine months in prison after it was revealed that he duped investors of millions of dollars by running a fake cow dung-to-green energy scheme. Investors were hopeful that the scheme would give them profits and tax incentives for contributing to generating green energy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 66-year-old man, named Ray Brewer, is a resident of Porterville. He falsely claimed to his investors that he was building anaerobic digesters at dairies in California’s Fresno, Kern, Kings and Tulare counties and in Idaho, according to prosecutors.</p>

<h2><strong>What are anaerobic digesters?</strong></h2>

<p>Anaerobic digesters use microorganisms “to break down biodegradable material and turn it into methane,” a statement by the prosecutors said. The methane then can be directly sold, which also provides the investors with renewable energy credits.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Hundreds of dolphins and sea lions die in California due to toxic algae</strong></p>

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<p>The prosecutors alleged that Brewer falsely promised his investors that they would receive 66 per cent of net profits and tax incentives. However, it turned out to be a whopping $8.75 million scam.</p>

<p>Brewer deposited the money in&nbsp;his bank accounts and used it to live a lavish life and to buy up lands and a home for himself. He also bought Dodge Ram pickup trucks.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>How Brewer fooled the investors?</strong></h2>

<p>Brewer reportedly took investors on guided tours of dairy farms, showcasing locations where he claimed he would build digesters. According to prosecutors, Brewer purportedly raised substantial sums of money for these projects. To further deceive investors, he sent them forged lease agreements with dairy owners, counterfeit loan agreements with banks, fraudulent contracts with multinational companies, and fabricated images depicting the machines in the process of construction.</p>

<p>Authorities state that Brewer went to great lengths to maintain the illusion of progress, providing his investors with false updates on the non-existent construction. These updates included phoney schedules, invoices, power generation reports, and pictures. Additionally, it is alleged that Brewer engaged in a scheme of refunding money to certain investors, utilising funds obtained from other investors.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/human-remains-found-in-california-mountain-area-where-actor-julian-sands-disappeared-5-months-ago-608412"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Human remains found in California mountain area where actor Julian Sands disappeared 5 months ago</strong></a></p>

<p>When investors eventually discovered the deceit and realised they had been defrauded, some pursued legal action against Brewer. However, he managed to evade his arrest by relocating to Sheridan, Montana, and getting a new identity.&nbsp;</p>

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A California man was sentenced to six years and nine months in prison after it was revealed that he duped investors of millions of dollars by running a fake cow dung-to-green energy scheme.

A California man was sentenced to six years and nine months in prison after it was revealed that he duped investors of millions of dollars by running a fake cow dung-to-green energy scheme. Investors were hopeful that the scheme would give them profits and tax incentives for contributing to generating green energy. The 66-year-old man, named Ray Brewer, is a resident of Porterville. He falsely claimed to his investors that he was building anaerobic digesters at dairies in California’s Fresno, Kern, Kings and Tulare counties and in Idaho, according to prosecutors. What are anaerobic digesters? Anaerobic digesters use microorganisms “to break down biodegradable material and turn it into methane,” a statement by the prosecutors said. The methane then can be directly sold, which also provides the investors with renewable energy credits. Watch: Hundreds of dolphins and sea lions die in California due to toxic algae × The prosecutors alleged that Brewer falsely promised his investors that they would receive 66 per cent of net profits and tax incentives. However, it turned out to be a whopping $8.75 million scam. Brewer deposited the money in his bank accounts and used it to live a lavish life and to buy up lands and a home for himself. He also bought Dodge Ram pickup trucks. How Brewer fooled the investors? Brewer reportedly took investors on guided tours of dairy farms, showcasing locations where he claimed he would build digesters. According to prosecutors, Brewer purportedly raised substantial sums of money for these projects. To further deceive investors, he sent them forged lease agreements with dairy owners, counterfeit loan agreements with banks, fraudulent contracts with multinational companies, and fabricated images depicting the machines in the process of construction. Authorities state that Brewer went to great lengths to maintain the illusion of progress, providing his investors with false updates on the non-existent construction. These updates included phoney schedules, invoices, power generation reports, and pictures. Additionally, it is alleged that Brewer engaged in a scheme of refunding money to certain investors, utilising funds obtained from other investors. Also read: Human remains found in California mountain area where actor Julian Sands disappeared 5 months ago When investors eventually discovered the deceit and realised they had been defrauded, some pursued legal action against Brewer. However, he managed to evade his arrest by relocating to Sheridan, Montana, and getting a new identity. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Multimillion-dollar cow dung scam: California man sentenced for faking methane generation scheme

<p>A man in the United States mistakenly added a couple of zeroes to the amount he wanted to give away to charity and accidentally donated $15,000 instead of $150 to a hunger relief programme.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports have mentioned that the man from California, who goes by the username u/lazybear90 on Reddit, donated a lot more and told the story on the subreddit TIFU.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The incident took place in February of last year, but what happened next after this honest mistake is quite heart-warming. The 32-year-old man, who has been identified in the media as Michael, explained what had happened.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While sharing his story, he wrote in the thread that the incident happened soon after he had moved into a new apartment building in San Francisco last year with his wife.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One of the neighbours in the new apartment told him about a charity he managed for a community in Bangladesh, which was on GoFundMe.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/womans-body-found-in-rubble-six-days-after-paris-building-blast-609340">Woman's body found in rubble six days after Paris building blast</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Michael was pretty much convinced by the neighbour, who has been described by the Reddit user as a "70-something-year-old retired veteran", who was said to be a "white American guy" and "a devout Hindu priest". Michael referred to as Joe in the thread.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said, "The next day at work, I go on the GoFundMe page and donate $150. Or so I thought" but was shocked when he received a warning from his credit card company about an "unusually large transaction".&nbsp;</p>

<p>He wrote that it appeared he had accidentally started typing his credit card information while the cursor was still in the donation box.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>He wanted to fix the situation, only to realise later that...&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Michael said he called GoFundMe's support line and spoke to a human operator, who told him that his transaction will be reversed and he will get the money in three to seven business days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He said that he asked the employee if the charity will be able to see the donation on the GoFundMe page until it is refunded. The employee replied "yes".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musks-biographer-talks-about-billionaires-demon-mode-dark-streak-in-upcoming-book-609335">Elon Musk's biographer talks about billionaire's 'demon mode,' 'dark streak' in upcoming book</a></strong></p>

<p>He wrote, "'Will they be able to see the $15,041 donation?!'While replying to this, the agency said yes. They will be able to see it until the refund process is complete - a situation quite problematic for Michael as he had written that "the entire GoFundMe had hardly raised that much at that point. Surely they will notice their fundraiser doubling overnight?"&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Still life painting of early form of Pizza found in Pompeii&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>And the next day, he received more than 40 Facebook notifications from an individual in Bangladesh, who was thanking him for such a huge donation - which put him in a tricky spot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Michael said that those responses made him rethink his decision as he added that he "couldn't live with myself just donating $150 after seeing how the community responded to the $15,041".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I decided the least I could do was to add a zero, and so I donated $1,500 once the original donation was refunded. The charity's host was incredibly gracious and understanding, and he explained to me that $1,500 goes very far in Bangladesh for urgent food relief," Michael wrote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Media reports have also mentioned that his story also helped in raising more money after it&nbsp;went viral and more people got to know about the charity.&nbsp;</p>

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A man in the United States mistakenly added a couple of zeroes to the amount he wanted to give away to charity and accidentally donated $15,000 instead of $150 to a hunger relief programme.

A man in the United States mistakenly added a couple of zeroes to the amount he wanted to give away to charity and accidentally donated $15,000 instead of $150 to a hunger relief programme. Media reports have mentioned that the man from California, who goes by the username u/lazybear90 on Reddit, donated a lot more and told the story on the subreddit TIFU. The incident took place in February of last year, but what happened next after this honest mistake is quite heart-warming. The 32-year-old man, who has been identified in the media as Michael, explained what had happened. While sharing his story, he wrote in the thread that the incident happened soon after he had moved into a new apartment building in San Francisco last year with his wife. One of the neighbours in the new apartment told him about a charity he managed for a community in Bangladesh, which was on GoFundMe. Also read: Woman's body found in rubble six days after Paris building blast Michael was pretty much convinced by the neighbour, who has been described by the Reddit user as a "70-something-year-old retired veteran", who was said to be a "white American guy" and "a devout Hindu priest". Michael referred to as Joe in the thread. He said, "The next day at work, I go on the GoFundMe page and donate $150. Or so I thought" but was shocked when he received a warning from his credit card company about an "unusually large transaction". He wrote that it appeared he had accidentally started typing his credit card information while the cursor was still in the donation box. He wanted to fix the situation, only to realise later that... Michael said he called GoFundMe's support line and spoke to a human operator, who told him that his transaction will be reversed and he will get the money in three to seven business days. He said that he asked the employee if the charity will be able to see the donation on the GoFundMe page until it is refunded. The employee replied "yes". Also read: Elon Musk's biographer talks about billionaire's 'demon mode,' 'dark streak' in upcoming book He wrote, "'Will they be able to see the $15,041 donation?!'While replying to this, the agency said yes. They will be able to see it until the refund process is complete - a situation quite problematic for Michael as he had written that "the entire GoFundMe had hardly raised that much at that point. Surely they will notice their fundraiser doubling overnight?" Watch: Still life painting of early form of Pizza found in Pompeii × And the next day, he received more than 40 Facebook notifications from an individual in Bangladesh, who was thanking him for such a huge donation - which put him in a tricky spot. Michael said that those responses made him rethink his decision as he added that he "couldn't live with myself just donating $150 after seeing how the community responded to the $15,041". "I decided the least I could do was to add a zero, and so I donated $1,500 once the original donation was refunded. The charity's host was incredibly gracious and understanding, and he explained to me that $1,500 goes very far in Bangladesh for urgent food relief," Michael wrote. Media reports have also mentioned that his story also helped in raising more money after it went viral and more people got to know about the charity. 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.

Man mistakenly donated $15,000 instead of $150. What happened next was heart-warming

<p>A toxic algae bloom is killing thousands of marine animals in seas off the coast of southern California, BBC reported Friday. Hundreds of dead dolphins and sea lions washed up along the beaches as mammal rescue organisations found themselves overwhelmed with distress calls made by onlookers. &nbsp;“We are managing more than 200 reports of marine mammals in distress each day,” Ruth Dover, co-founder and managing director of the Channel Islands Marine &amp; Wildlife Institute was quoted as saying by USA Today.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Animal rescue groups are scrambling to try to get boots on the ground to get the animals protected," David Caron, a biological sciences professor at the University of Southern California was quoted as saying by BBC.</p>

<p>National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Marine Fisheries Service, known as NOAA Fisheries, said that they received more than 1,000 reports of dead or sick marine animals from June 8 to June 14.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Deadly species of algae responsible for the tragedy</strong></h2>

<p>Experts believe thousands of marine animals are dying due to the exponential growth of a harmful species of algae, which produces a toxin called domoic acid. The toxin is&nbsp;first consumed by small sea creatures in large quantities such as shellfish, anchovies and sardines, and then moves up the food chain once those creatures are eaten by larger mammals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They eat a meal of those highly toxic fish and then they become toxified themselves, and if they get enough of that material, it of course can kill them, which is happening now,” David Caron said.</p>

<p><br />
When domoic acid affects marine mammals, they can become disoriented or even convulse and die under water, BBC reported.</p>

<h2><strong>Should humans be worried?</strong></h2>

<p>The toxins not only affect marine life but also pose risks to human health. Consumption of fish contaminated with toxins from these blooms can lead to illness in humans. However, the California Department of Public Health closely monitors toxin levels and takes necessary actions such as closing shellfish beaches to ensure public safety, according to Caron.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Sea levels in China rising due to climate change</strong></p>

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<p>If humans come across stranded sick animals on the beach and attempt to approach them, the presence of toxins can trigger aggressive behaviour in these creatures.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/wion-explains-new-york-the-city-that-never-sleeps-may-soon-lie-in-slumber-under-the-sea-594202"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;WION Explains | New York, the city that never sleeps, may soon lie in slumber under the sea</strong></a></p>

<p>To avoid potential harm, it is advised that people steer clear of marine animals affected by harmful algal blooms. Instead, they should promptly notify rescue organisations, which have proven successful in saving some animals. These organisations employ methods like capturing the animals, providing them with food and liquids, and facilitating toxin elimination from their systems.</p>

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A toxic algae bloom is killing thousands of marine animals in seas off the coast of southern California, BBC reported Friday. Hundreds of dead dolphins and sea lions washed up along the beaches as mammal rescue organisations found themselves overwhelmed with distress calls made by onlookers.

A toxic algae bloom is killing thousands of marine animals in seas off the coast of southern California, BBC reported Friday. Hundreds of dead dolphins and sea lions washed up along the beaches as mammal rescue organisations found themselves overwhelmed with distress calls made by onlookers. “We are managing more than 200 reports of marine mammals in distress each day,” Ruth Dover, co-founder and managing director of the Channel Islands Marine & Wildlife Institute was quoted as saying by USA Today. "Animal rescue groups are scrambling to try to get boots on the ground to get the animals protected," David Caron, a biological sciences professor at the University of Southern California was quoted as saying by BBC. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's National Marine Fisheries Service, known as NOAA Fisheries, said that they received more than 1,000 reports of dead or sick marine animals from June 8 to June 14. Deadly species of algae responsible for the tragedy Experts believe thousands of marine animals are dying due to the exponential growth of a harmful species of algae, which produces a toxin called domoic acid. The toxin is first consumed by small sea creatures in large quantities such as shellfish, anchovies and sardines, and then moves up the food chain once those creatures are eaten by larger mammals. "They eat a meal of those highly toxic fish and then they become toxified themselves, and if they get enough of that material, it of course can kill them, which is happening now,” David Caron said. When domoic acid affects marine mammals, they can become disoriented or even convulse and die under water, BBC reported. Should humans be worried? The toxins not only affect marine life but also pose risks to human health. Consumption of fish contaminated with toxins from these blooms can lead to illness in humans. However, the California Department of Public Health closely monitors toxin levels and takes necessary actions such as closing shellfish beaches to ensure public safety, according to Caron. Watch: Sea levels in China rising due to climate change × If humans come across stranded sick animals on the beach and attempt to approach them, the presence of toxins can trigger aggressive behaviour in these creatures. Also read: WION Explains | New York, the city that never sleeps, may soon lie in slumber under the sea To avoid potential harm, it is advised that people steer clear of marine animals affected by harmful algal blooms. Instead, they should promptly notify rescue organisations, which have proven successful in saving some animals. These organisations employ methods like capturing the animals, providing them with food and liquids, and facilitating toxin elimination from their systems. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Hundreds of dolphins and sea lions die in California due to toxic algae

Two global leaders in a chipmaking industry are fighting a legal battle against each other - Realtek and Mediatek. The stage is set in Northern California Federal Court where Realtek has accused its rival Taiwanese Chipmaker of engaging in a conspiracy to disrupt its business.

Realtek vs Mediatek: Chipmaking giants in a legal battle | World DNA

<p>In a heart-wrenching incident on a California beach, an Indian-American man tragically lost his life while rescuing his 13-year-old son from dangerous waters.</p>

<p>Srinivasa Murthy Jonnalagadda, despite lacking swimming skills, managed to save his son's life. However, he was unable to overcome the powerful riptide.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Jonnalagadda's family is left devastated by the incident that unfolded at Panther State Beach in Santa Cruz County. The incident prompted multiple agencies to respond to the scene.</p>

<p>According to California Fire's Twitter account, Jonnalagadda entered the water to rescue his son, and he was later airlifted by a California Highway Patrol helicopter to Stanford Hospital. Unfortunately, he passed away there.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-cabinet-approves-11-bn-revival-package-for-bsnl-report-601680">Indian cabinet approves third revival package of $11 bn for BSNL</a></p>

<h2><strong>GoFundMe page&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>According to a GoFundMe page organised for his family, Jonnalagadda had taken his family to the beach at their children's request.</p>

<p>The family had no intention of entering the water. While his family was enjoying the beach, his son ventured near the shore when tragedy struck.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-gives-thumbs-down-to-natos-plans-of-opening-liaison-office-in-japan-601605">France gives thumbs down to NATO’s plans of opening liaison office in Japan</a></p>

<p>A sudden large wave knocked his son down. This was followed by more waves that began dragging him into the ocean.</p>

<p>Upon realising his son's struggle, despite not knowing how to swim, Srinivasa courageously rushed into the water to rescue him and bring him to safety.</p>

<p>"Unexpectedly a large wave came and knocked his son down and subsequent large waves began to drag him into the ocean. Upon seeing and hearing this, Srinivasa suddenly realized that his son was struggling to get out of the water. Despite not knowing how to swim, he ran into the waters to help his son out to safety," the GoFundMe page said.</p>

<p>As per the page, Srinivasa was able to rescue the life of his drowning son with the help of a good Samaritan.</p>

<p>"Despite the unwavering dedication of the medical professionals involved, he tragically succumbed and was pronounced deceased at Stanford Hospital," the page added by requesting everyone to contribute to this campaign in order to make a very meaningful difference in the lives of this mourning household.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Taylor Swift flaunts Rs 8K bangles from an Indian brand in her music video 'Karma'</strong></p>

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<p>Jonnalagadda is survived by his wife and two children.</p>

<p>A funeral service has been scheduled for 7 June at the Chapel of Angels in Fremont Boulevard, Fremont, starting at 12:30 pm local time.</p>

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In a heart-wrenching incident on a California beach, an Indian-American man tragically lost his life while rescuing his 13-year-old son from dangerous waters. Srinivasa Murthy Jonnalagadda, despite lacking swimming skills, managed to save his son's life.

In a heart-wrenching incident on a California beach, an Indian-American man tragically lost his life while rescuing his 13-year-old son from dangerous waters. Srinivasa Murthy Jonnalagadda, despite lacking swimming skills, managed to save his son's life. However, he was unable to overcome the powerful riptide. Jonnalagadda's family is left devastated by the incident that unfolded at Panther State Beach in Santa Cruz County. The incident prompted multiple agencies to respond to the scene. According to California Fire's Twitter account, Jonnalagadda entered the water to rescue his son, and he was later airlifted by a California Highway Patrol helicopter to Stanford Hospital. Unfortunately, he passed away there. Also Read | Indian cabinet approves third revival package of $11 bn for BSNL GoFundMe page According to a GoFundMe page organised for his family, Jonnalagadda had taken his family to the beach at their children's request. The family had no intention of entering the water. While his family was enjoying the beach, his son ventured near the shore when tragedy struck. Also Read | France gives thumbs down to NATO’s plans of opening liaison office in Japan A sudden large wave knocked his son down. This was followed by more waves that began dragging him into the ocean. Upon realising his son's struggle, despite not knowing how to swim, Srinivasa courageously rushed into the water to rescue him and bring him to safety. "Unexpectedly a large wave came and knocked his son down and subsequent large waves began to drag him into the ocean. Upon seeing and hearing this, Srinivasa suddenly realized that his son was struggling to get out of the water. Despite not knowing how to swim, he ran into the waters to help his son out to safety," the GoFundMe page said. As per the page, Srinivasa was able to rescue the life of his drowning son with the help of a good Samaritan. "Despite the unwavering dedication of the medical professionals involved, he tragically succumbed and was pronounced deceased at Stanford Hospital," the page added by requesting everyone to contribute to this campaign in order to make a very meaningful difference in the lives of this mourning household. Watch | Taylor Swift flaunts Rs 8K bangles from an Indian brand in her music video 'Karma' × Jonnalagadda is survived by his wife and two children. A funeral service has been scheduled for 7 June at the Chapel of Angels in Fremont Boulevard, Fremont, starting at 12:30 pm local time. 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. ×

Indian-American father sacrifices life saving son from drowning at California beach

California Governor Gavin Newsom appeared to threaten his Florida counterpart Ron DeSantis with kidnapping charges Monday, over migrant flights. WION tells you more in this report.

Gavin Newsom threatens Ron DeSantis with kidnapping charges

<p>Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta platforms—the parent company of Facebook and Instagram—has threatened to pull down news content from its social media apps in California in protest against the state’s new proposed bill that requires big tech companies to pay news outlets for showcasing their content.</p>

<p>The Journalism Preservation Act requires digital companies such as Google and Facebook to pay local news publishers a “journalism usage fee” whenever their news content is used or posted on those platforms.</p>

<p>The bill, which is sponsored by a Democrat&nbsp;assembly member from Oakland, Buffy Wicks, also requires news publishers to invest 70 per cent of usage fee profits into journalism jobs.</p>

<p>The move was slammed by Meta’s communications director Andy Stone who called the bill “a slush fund that primarily benefits big, out-of-state media companies under the guise of aiding California publishers.”</p>

<p>“The bill fails to recognise that publishers and broadcasters put their content on our platform themselves and that substantial consolidation in California’s local news industry came over 15 years ago, well before Facebook was widely used,” Stone said on Twitter on Wednesday.</p>

<p>"If the Journalism Preservation Act passes, we will be forced to remove news from Facebook and Instagram, rather than pay into a slush fund that primarily benefits big, out-of-state media companies under the guise of aiding California publishers," he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Meta statement on the California Journalism Preservation Act. <a href="https://t.co/ssgk1vSryB">pic.twitter.com/ssgk1vSryB</a></p>
— Andy Stone (@andymstone) <a href="https://twitter.com/andymstone/status/1663951770052067338?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 31, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Lawmaker condemns Meta’s threat</strong></h2>

<p>Responding to the remarks, Wicks in a statement condemned Meta for using a “scare tactic” in an attempt to “silence journalists”.</p>

<p>“This threat from Meta is a scare tactic that they’ve tried to deploy, unsuccessfully, in every country that’s attempted this,” Wicks said in a statement, according to CNN.</p>

<p>“It’s egregious that one of the wealthiest companies in the world would rather silence journalists than face regulation.”</p>

<p>A spokesperson for Wicks said that the bill is due for a vote in the California State Assembly on Thursday.</p>

<h2><strong>Evokes mixed response </strong></h2>

<p>The bill has garnered mixed responses among the media fraternity in California.</p>

<p>While the Media Guild of the West and Pacific Media Workers Guild have praised the bill, Free Press Action, a non-profit media advocacy organisation, has criticised it.</p>

<p>In a joint letter, the two unions called Meta and Google “powerful landlords overseeing an ever-expanding slum of low-quality information, happy to collect advertising rents from struggling tenants while avoiding paying for upkeep".</p>

<p><a name="_Hlk136524370">The Free Press Action, on the other hand, </a>said the proposed bill does “nothing to support trustworthy local reporting and would instead pad the profits of massive conglomerates".</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta platforms—the parent company of Facebook and Instagram—has threatened to pull down news content from its social media apps in California in protest against the state’s new proposed bill that requires big tech companies to pay news outlets for showcasing their content.

Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta platforms—the parent company of Facebook and Instagram—has threatened to pull down news content from its social media apps in California in protest against the state’s new proposed bill that requires big tech companies to pay news outlets for showcasing their content. The Journalism Preservation Act requires digital companies such as Google and Facebook to pay local news publishers a “journalism usage fee” whenever their news content is used or posted on those platforms. The bill, which is sponsored by a Democrat assembly member from Oakland, Buffy Wicks, also requires news publishers to invest 70 per cent of usage fee profits into journalism jobs. The move was slammed by Meta’s communications director Andy Stone who called the bill “a slush fund that primarily benefits big, out-of-state media companies under the guise of aiding California publishers.” “The bill fails to recognise that publishers and broadcasters put their content on our platform themselves and that substantial consolidation in California’s local news industry came over 15 years ago, well before Facebook was widely used,” Stone said on Twitter on Wednesday. "If the Journalism Preservation Act passes, we will be forced to remove news from Facebook and Instagram, rather than pay into a slush fund that primarily benefits big, out-of-state media companies under the guise of aiding California publishers," he added. Meta statement on the California Journalism Preservation Act. pic.twitter.com/ssgk1vSryB — Andy Stone (@andymstone) May 31, 2023 × Lawmaker condemns Meta’s threat Responding to the remarks, Wicks in a statement condemned Meta for using a “scare tactic” in an attempt to “silence journalists”. “This threat from Meta is a scare tactic that they’ve tried to deploy, unsuccessfully, in every country that’s attempted this,” Wicks said in a statement, according to CNN. “It’s egregious that one of the wealthiest companies in the world would rather silence journalists than face regulation.” A spokesperson for Wicks said that the bill is due for a vote in the California State Assembly on Thursday. Evokes mixed response The bill has garnered mixed responses among the media fraternity in California. While the Media Guild of the West and Pacific Media Workers Guild have praised the bill, Free Press Action, a non-profit media advocacy organisation, has criticised it. In a joint letter, the two unions called Meta and Google “powerful landlords overseeing an ever-expanding slum of low-quality information, happy to collect advertising rents from struggling tenants while avoiding paying for upkeep". The Free Press Action, on the other hand, said the proposed bill does “nothing to support trustworthy local reporting and would instead pad the profits of massive conglomerates". (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Meta threatens to pull news content from social media sites over California's proposed bill

<p>LOS ANGELES, May 30 (Reuters) - A California appeals court overruled Governor Gavin Newsom on Tuesday to find Leslie Van Houten, one of Charles Manson's murderous "family" of followers, entitled to parole after more than 50 years in prison for her part in the cult's 1969 killing spree.</p>

<p>Van Houten, 73, the youngest of Manson's devotees, has been recommended for early release by the state parole board on five occasions since 2016, but was denied three times by Newsom and twice by his predecessor, fellow Democrat Jerry Brown.</p>

<p>The 2-to-1 decision from a three-member panel of the state's 2nd District Court of Appeal sided with the Board of Parole Hearings' findings that Van Houten, who was 19 when the murders were committed, has been rehabilitated and no longer poses a danger to society.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ</strong>&nbsp;|<strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-senate-passes-bill-to-ban-caste-discrimination-indian-americans-fear-it-will-single-out-hindus-591539">California Senate passes bill to ban caste discrimination, Indian-Americans fear it will single out Hindus</a></strong></p>

<p>The governor could appeal the decision to the California Supreme Court.</p>

<p>In his most recent rejection of her parole in 2022, Newsom cited supposed inconsistencies between Van Houten's statements then and at the time of the murders, which he said suggested "gaps in Ms. Van Houten's insight or candor, or both."</p>

<p>But in granting her petition, the appellate judges wrote that Newsom's conclusion "fails to account for the decades of therapy, self-help programming, and reflection Van Houten has undergone in the past 50 years."</p>

<p>It marks the first time a court has overruled a governor's denial of parole to a Manson follower, according to the Los Angeles Times.</p>

<p>Manson, who died in prison in 2017 at age 83, directed his mostly young and female followers to murder seven people, including actress Sharon Tate, in August 1969 in what prosecutors said was part of a plan to incite a race war.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;|<strong> California's coastal crisis</strong></p>

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<p>Van Houten was convicted of fatally stabbing grocery owner Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary, in their Los Angeles home on Aug. 10, 1969. The words "Death to Pigs" and "Healter Skelter" - a misspelled reference to a Beatles song - were found scrawled in the victims' blood on the walls and refrigerator.</p>

<p>The previous night, members of Manson's cult broke into the Los Angeles hillside home that Tate shared with her husband, filmmaker Roman Polanski, who was away in Europe at the time.</p>

<p>Tate, who was 26 and eight months pregnant, was slain along with four friends of the celebrity couple, including coffee heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring.</p>

<p>Van Houten's 1971 original conviction and death sentence were initially overturned on appeal, but she was retried, convicted and sentenced to prison in 1978.</p>

<p>Although Manson, one of the 20th century's most notorious criminals, did not personally kill any of the seven victims, he was found guilty of ordering their murders.</p>

<p>The death sentences that he and other followers received were commuted to life in prison after capital punishment was ruled unconstitutional in 1972.</p>

<p>Manson was also convicted later of ordering the killings of two others that summer - music teacher Gary Hinman and stuntman Donald "Shorty" Shea.</p>

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LOS ANGELES, May 30 (Reuters) - A California appeals court overruled Governor Gavin Newsom on Tuesday to find Leslie Van Houten, one of Charles Manson's murderous "family" of followers, entitled to parole after more than 50 years in prison for her part in the cult's 1969 killing spree.

LOS ANGELES, May 30 (Reuters) - A California appeals court overruled Governor Gavin Newsom on Tuesday to find Leslie Van Houten, one of Charles Manson's murderous "family" of followers, entitled to parole after more than 50 years in prison for her part in the cult's 1969 killing spree. Van Houten, 73, the youngest of Manson's devotees, has been recommended for early release by the state parole board on five occasions since 2016, but was denied three times by Newsom and twice by his predecessor, fellow Democrat Jerry Brown. The 2-to-1 decision from a three-member panel of the state's 2nd District Court of Appeal sided with the Board of Parole Hearings' findings that Van Houten, who was 19 when the murders were committed, has been rehabilitated and no longer poses a danger to society. ALSO READ | California Senate passes bill to ban caste discrimination, Indian-Americans fear it will single out Hindus The governor could appeal the decision to the California Supreme Court. In his most recent rejection of her parole in 2022, Newsom cited supposed inconsistencies between Van Houten's statements then and at the time of the murders, which he said suggested "gaps in Ms. Van Houten's insight or candor, or both." But in granting her petition, the appellate judges wrote that Newsom's conclusion "fails to account for the decades of therapy, self-help programming, and reflection Van Houten has undergone in the past 50 years." It marks the first time a court has overruled a governor's denial of parole to a Manson follower, according to the Los Angeles Times. Manson, who died in prison in 2017 at age 83, directed his mostly young and female followers to murder seven people, including actress Sharon Tate, in August 1969 in what prosecutors said was part of a plan to incite a race war. WATCH | California's coastal crisis × Van Houten was convicted of fatally stabbing grocery owner Leno LaBianca and his wife, Rosemary, in their Los Angeles home on Aug. 10, 1969. The words "Death to Pigs" and "Healter Skelter" - a misspelled reference to a Beatles song - were found scrawled in the victims' blood on the walls and refrigerator. The previous night, members of Manson's cult broke into the Los Angeles hillside home that Tate shared with her husband, filmmaker Roman Polanski, who was away in Europe at the time. Tate, who was 26 and eight months pregnant, was slain along with four friends of the celebrity couple, including coffee heiress Abigail Folger and hairstylist Jay Sebring. Van Houten's 1971 original conviction and death sentence were initially overturned on appeal, but she was retried, convicted and sentenced to prison in 1978. Although Manson, one of the 20th century's most notorious criminals, did not personally kill any of the seven victims, he was found guilty of ordering their murders. The death sentences that he and other followers received were commuted to life in prison after capital punishment was ruled unconstitutional in 1972. Manson was also convicted later of ordering the killings of two others that summer - music teacher Gary Hinman and stuntman Donald "Shorty" Shea. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

California appeals court deems Manson follower Van Houten entitled to parole

A new study estimates, up to 75% of California's coasts could wash away due to rising global temperatures.

California's coastal crisis

FBI reveals a man planned to kill Queen Elizabeth II ahead of her California visit in 1983. Documents mention threats posed to the British Royals by the Irish Republican Army. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: Queen Elizabeth faced assassination threat

<p>A cleansing programme being run by the University of California Riverside is helping California get rid of industrial waste with the help of plants and fungi. The plants, referred to as solar-powered vacuum cleaners by experts, have an extraordinary ability to suck out heavy metals from soil and rid it completely of all forms of pollutants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One such plant employed in the process is California buckwheat, whose beautiful pink and white flowers have this special ability to detoxify the soil. "That's the miracle of life," Kreigh Hampel, a 68-year-old volunteer was quoted as saying by the Phys.org website.</p>

<h2><strong>How does the detoxification process work?</strong></h2>

<p>Several California plants and fungi such as the telegraph weed, the California bush sunflower and Oyster mushrooms have the ability to suck up heavy metals and help decompose pollutants. They suck up metals like lead into their bodies. And later, when these plants are uprooted from the site, the soil gets effectively sanitised.</p>

<p>“When we pull out the plants, we've removed the lead from the soil," says Danielle Stevenson, a mycologist and the leader of the programme. She says that lead recovered from plants then can be recycled and reused.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;In soaked California, only 2% residents insured against flood</strong></p>

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<p>Similarly, Oyster mushrooms are good at sucking up diesel from the soil. "Those same fungi that in nature would eat a dead tree will also recognize diesel oil, for example, as a food source. The reason is, it's basically the same thing. A lot of our fossil fuels are just dead stuff that got compressed over long periods of time," observes Stevenson.</p>

<h2><strong>Way better than the traditional way of cleaning up sites?</strong></h2>

<p>According to Stevenson, bioremediation techniques are proving to be a highly cost-effective alternative to traditional methods of environmental cleanup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She explains, "The conventional method of cleaning up sites is just to dig up all the contaminated soil and to dump it somewhere else. That approach doesn't actually solve the problem, right? It just moves it somewhere else." This approach has not only been ineffective in tackling the issue but has also proven to be a financial burden.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/tragic-california-man-killed-by-car-while-helping-ducks-cross-road-595327"><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;Tragic! California man killed by car while helping ducks cross road</strong></a></p>

<p>The bioremediation project, undertaken on three sites in the Los Angeles area, has shown immense promise thus far, with a budget of approximately $200,000. Early results have given rise to optimism among experts and stakeholders involved in the field of environmental remediation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The cost-effectiveness of bioremediation has the potential to revolutionise the cleanup efforts required for numerous commercial sites that have outlived their usefulness and are left abandoned.</p>

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A cleansing programme being run by the University of California Riverside is helping California get rid of industrial waste with the help of plants and fungi. The plants, referred to as solar-powered vacuum cleaners by experts, have an extraordinary ability to suck out heavy metals from soil and rid it completely of all forms of pollutants.

A cleansing programme being run by the University of California Riverside is helping California get rid of industrial waste with the help of plants and fungi. The plants, referred to as solar-powered vacuum cleaners by experts, have an extraordinary ability to suck out heavy metals from soil and rid it completely of all forms of pollutants. One such plant employed in the process is California buckwheat, whose beautiful pink and white flowers have this special ability to detoxify the soil. "That's the miracle of life," Kreigh Hampel, a 68-year-old volunteer was quoted as saying by the Phys.org website. How does the detoxification process work? Several California plants and fungi such as the telegraph weed, the California bush sunflower and Oyster mushrooms have the ability to suck up heavy metals and help decompose pollutants. They suck up metals like lead into their bodies. And later, when these plants are uprooted from the site, the soil gets effectively sanitised. “When we pull out the plants, we've removed the lead from the soil," says Danielle Stevenson, a mycologist and the leader of the programme. She says that lead recovered from plants then can be recycled and reused. Watch: In soaked California, only 2% residents insured against flood × Similarly, Oyster mushrooms are good at sucking up diesel from the soil. "Those same fungi that in nature would eat a dead tree will also recognize diesel oil, for example, as a food source. The reason is, it's basically the same thing. A lot of our fossil fuels are just dead stuff that got compressed over long periods of time," observes Stevenson. Way better than the traditional way of cleaning up sites? According to Stevenson, bioremediation techniques are proving to be a highly cost-effective alternative to traditional methods of environmental cleanup. She explains, "The conventional method of cleaning up sites is just to dig up all the contaminated soil and to dump it somewhere else. That approach doesn't actually solve the problem, right? It just moves it somewhere else." This approach has not only been ineffective in tackling the issue but has also proven to be a financial burden. Also Read | Tragic! California man killed by car while helping ducks cross road The bioremediation project, undertaken on three sites in the Los Angeles area, has shown immense promise thus far, with a budget of approximately $200,000. Early results have given rise to optimism among experts and stakeholders involved in the field of environmental remediation. The cost-effectiveness of bioremediation has the potential to revolutionise the cleanup efforts required for numerous commercial sites that have outlived their usefulness and are left abandoned. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

California researchers successfully rid soil of industrial waste using plants and fungi

<p>In a tragic incident, a California man was killed after a car mowed him while assisting a family of ducks cross a busy highway.</p>

<p>The incident took place&nbsp;at Stanford Ranch Road and Park Drive in the city of Rocklin in the evening when 41-year-old Casey Rivara, identified as the victim, got out of his car and wore the good samaritan hat.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to William Wimsatt, a 12-year-old boy who witnessed the kind gesture of&nbsp;Rivara, everyone was applauding him for the act.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He got out of the car and was shooing the ducks and everyone was clapping because he was being really nice,” said Wimsatt.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“He helped them get up over the curb because all the little baby duckies were having trouble and then he walked in front of our car,” the boy recounted.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-kamala-harris-motorcade-met-with-an-accident-transferred-to-another-vehicle-523107"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US: Kamala Harris' motorcade met with an accident, transferred to another vehicle</strong></a></p>

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<p>After the ducks were safely chaperoned by Rivara to the other side of the road, the onlookers appreciated him. However, it was at this moment, a car seemingly came out of nowhere and&nbsp;struck Rivara, which left him dead on the spot.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I didn’t see the car actually hit him. All I remember is the sound and then him flying across the intersection.&nbsp;His shoes and one of his socks were right in front of our car.”</p>

<p>According to reports, Rivara&nbsp;was hit by a 17-year-old female driver while his teenage child watched from the family car. The police said the teen remained at the scene after the incident and is helping the authorities with the investigation.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Family starts a GoFundMe page</strong></h2>

<p>After the incident, a&nbsp;fundraiser campaign has been started by the grieving family of Rivara.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Even his last act in this world was a sign of his compassion. The family is trying to figure out how to recover and keep going after this immense loss. If you would like to express your love and support for Angel and her family, we ask that you please contribute here in lieu of flowers, meals, and other acts of kindness," read the verified GoFundMe page.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/jeff-bezos-reportedly-engaged-to-partner-lauren-sanchez-595292"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;Jeff Bezos reportedly engaged to girlfriend Lauren Sánchez</strong></a></p>

<p>According to the family, Rivara was a devoted family man who fell 'madly' in love with his wife when the pair met at the age of 17. They had been together for the past 23 years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We have been deeply touched by the overwhelming love and support we’ve received for Casey Rivara and our family in these past few days,” widow Angel Chow was quoted as saying by NBC.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In a tragic incident, a California man was killed after a car mowed him while assisting a family of ducks cross a busy highway. The incident took place at Stanford Ranch Road and Park Drive in the city of Rocklin in the evening when 41-year-old Casey Rivara, identified as the victim, got out of his car and wore the good samaritan hat.

In a tragic incident, a California man was killed after a car mowed him while assisting a family of ducks cross a busy highway. The incident took place at Stanford Ranch Road and Park Drive in the city of Rocklin in the evening when 41-year-old Casey Rivara, identified as the victim, got out of his car and wore the good samaritan hat. According to William Wimsatt, a 12-year-old boy who witnessed the kind gesture of Rivara, everyone was applauding him for the act. “He got out of the car and was shooing the ducks and everyone was clapping because he was being really nice,” said Wimsatt. “He helped them get up over the curb because all the little baby duckies were having trouble and then he walked in front of our car,” the boy recounted. WATCH | US: Kamala Harris' motorcade met with an accident, transferred to another vehicle × After the ducks were safely chaperoned by Rivara to the other side of the road, the onlookers appreciated him. However, it was at this moment, a car seemingly came out of nowhere and struck Rivara, which left him dead on the spot. “I didn’t see the car actually hit him. All I remember is the sound and then him flying across the intersection. His shoes and one of his socks were right in front of our car.” According to reports, Rivara was hit by a 17-year-old female driver while his teenage child watched from the family car. The police said the teen remained at the scene after the incident and is helping the authorities with the investigation. Family starts a GoFundMe page After the incident, a fundraiser campaign has been started by the grieving family of Rivara. "Even his last act in this world was a sign of his compassion. The family is trying to figure out how to recover and keep going after this immense loss. If you would like to express your love and support for Angel and her family, we ask that you please contribute here in lieu of flowers, meals, and other acts of kindness," read the verified GoFundMe page. ALSO READ | Jeff Bezos reportedly engaged to girlfriend Lauren Sánchez According to the family, Rivara was a devoted family man who fell 'madly' in love with his wife when the pair met at the age of 17. They had been together for the past 23 years. “We have been deeply touched by the overwhelming love and support we’ve received for Casey Rivara and our family in these past few days,” widow Angel Chow was quoted as saying by NBC. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Tragic! California man killed by car while helping ducks cross road

A US court has approved the extradition of Tahawwur Rana to India. He is Pakistani-origin Canadian is one of the main accused in the 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attacks in 2008. Rana, who is in jail, can be extradited to India, ruled a California court earlier this week.

Tahawwur Rana: US court approves extradition of 26/11 Mumbai terror attack accused

Who is Tahawwur Rana & how is he involved in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks?

<p>A shocking incident unfolded in the streets of Riverside, California, over the weekend, as a man was brutally attacked with a sword, resulting in the severing of his hand. The police earlier dismissed the report of the discovery of a detached hand as a movie prop, but later they were stunned to hear that someone in the area was seeking medical assistance for getting his hand sliced off with a sword.</p>

<p>The incident has left the local community in a state of shock and has raised concerns about the escalating violence against homeless individuals in American cities.</p>

<h2><strong>Police yet to apprehend the assailant</strong></h2>

<p>According to Officer Ryan Railsback, a spokesperson for the Riverside Police, the victim had been attacked by an unidentified person wielding a sword on Saturday night. Preliminary findings suggest that both the victim and the perpetrator were homeless and may have been acquainted with each other. The Riverside police's robbery-homicide unit is currently investigating the incident but has yet to apprehend the assailant.</p>

<h2><strong>The local community comes forward to support&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The victim is well-known and respected within the community and has garnered immense support from those residing and working in the downtown area. “He’s a really nice guy, he’s one of our regulars,” said Nikki Hernandez, who works at a restaurant. “If someone were to upset him he would argue with them, but he would never get into a fight or altercation like that,” he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Biden family knee-deep in corruption?</strong></p>

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<p>A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to raise funds for his recovery. The campaign highlights the community's fears that the victim may lack a safe and sanitary environment to recuperate in once released from the hospital.</p>

<h2><strong>Growing violence against homeless people in the US</strong></h2>

<p>The incident shines a light on the growing issue of violence targeting unhoused individuals in cities across the United States. For instance, a former San Francisco fire commissioner was recently accused of using bear mace to spray several homeless people.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-mailing-used-condoms-to-australian-women-police-open-up-investigation-593154"><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;Who is mailing used condoms to Australian women? Police open up investigation</strong></a></p>

<p>The city of Los Angeles, located near Riverside, has also witnessed a concerning rise in violence against homeless residents in recent years. Despite constituting just 1 per cent of the population, unhoused individuals account for a staggering 24 per cent of the city's homicide victims, according to a January report by NBC Los Angeles.&nbsp;</p>

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A shocking incident unfolded in the streets of Riverside, California, over the weekend, as a man was brutally attacked with a sword, resulting in the severing of his hand.

A shocking incident unfolded in the streets of Riverside, California, over the weekend, as a man was brutally attacked with a sword, resulting in the severing of his hand. The police earlier dismissed the report of the discovery of a detached hand as a movie prop, but later they were stunned to hear that someone in the area was seeking medical assistance for getting his hand sliced off with a sword. The incident has left the local community in a state of shock and has raised concerns about the escalating violence against homeless individuals in American cities. Police yet to apprehend the assailant According to Officer Ryan Railsback, a spokesperson for the Riverside Police, the victim had been attacked by an unidentified person wielding a sword on Saturday night. Preliminary findings suggest that both the victim and the perpetrator were homeless and may have been acquainted with each other. The Riverside police's robbery-homicide unit is currently investigating the incident but has yet to apprehend the assailant. The local community comes forward to support The victim is well-known and respected within the community and has garnered immense support from those residing and working in the downtown area. “He’s a really nice guy, he’s one of our regulars,” said Nikki Hernandez, who works at a restaurant. “If someone were to upset him he would argue with them, but he would never get into a fight or altercation like that,” he said. Watch: Gravitas: Biden family knee-deep in corruption? × A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to raise funds for his recovery. The campaign highlights the community's fears that the victim may lack a safe and sanitary environment to recuperate in once released from the hospital. Growing violence against homeless people in the US The incident shines a light on the growing issue of violence targeting unhoused individuals in cities across the United States. For instance, a former San Francisco fire commissioner was recently accused of using bear mace to spray several homeless people. Also Read: Who is mailing used condoms to Australian women? Police open up investigation The city of Los Angeles, located near Riverside, has also witnessed a concerning rise in violence against homeless residents in recent years. Despite constituting just 1 per cent of the population, unhoused individuals account for a staggering 24 per cent of the city's homicide victims, according to a January report by NBC Los Angeles. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

California police begin hunt for assailant who severed homeless man’s hand with sword

<p>California's Democratic state Senator Steven Bradford has given a stark reality check to the African Americans in the state who were hoping to receive massive&nbsp;reparation&nbsp;payments.&nbsp;Bradford, who served on the&nbsp;California Reparations Task Force that recommended the state pay up to&nbsp;$1.2 million in reparations to each eligible Black resident said people should keep their 'expectations' in check.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bradford said “anything’s possible if the money’s there,” but remained&nbsp;“realistic” that it could be difficult to garner enough support.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I don’t want to set folks’ expectations and hopes up that they’re going to be getting, you know, seven-figure checks,” Bradford said in an interview. “That’s just not happening.”</p>

<p>He added that lawmakers had not even debated where the money for the reparation payment would come from.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-2-years-after-george-floyd-killing-black-america-still-cant-breathe-482450"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | What has happened after George Floyd's killing | Black America still 'can't breathe'</strong></a></p>

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<p>Notably, Bradford is not the only Democrat leader casting aspersions over the reparation payments. Reportedly, California Governor Gavin Newsom has also refused&nbsp;to lend his support to the initiative.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Dealing with that legacy is about much more than cash payments. Many of the recommendations put forward by the Task Force are critical action items we’ve already been hard at work addressing," Newsom&nbsp;told Fox News Digital.</p>

<p>"Breaking down barriers to vote, bolstering resources to address hate, enacting sweeping law enforcement and justice reforms to build trust and safety, strengthening economic mobility - all while investing billions to root out disparities and improve equity in housing, education, healthcare, and well beyond. This work must continue," he added.</p>

<p>The Democrat leader, however, applauded the work of the task force and said his administration will continue the process of healing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-governor-newsom-refuses-to-back-reparations-proposal-for-black-residents-591084"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;California Governor Newsom refuses to back reparations proposal for Black residents</strong></a></p>

<p>Disappointed by the comments of Democrat leaders,&nbsp;Los Angeles resident and reparations activist Marcus Champion remarked, “That is not the way you come to the table to pay a historic debt. That is not the way that you come to the table in any type of negotiation. Start as high as you possibly can, and then work from there.”</p>

<h2><strong>Proposals approved by the task force</strong></h2>

<p>Last week, a&nbsp;nine-member Reparation Task Force, formed nearly two years ago, met in Oakland and gave final approval to the list of proposals which will now head to the state lawmakers to be considered for legislation.</p>

<p>Among the list of approvals granted by the task force&nbsp;is a public apology, acknowledging the&nbsp;state’s responsibility for past wrongs and promising that it will not repeat them.</p>

<p>However, the biggest talking point has been the reparation money that the exchequer might owe to the Black residents if the proposal is turned into a law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to some reports, the proposal,&nbsp;if implemented, could cost as much as $800&nbsp;billion (2.5 times the annual budget of California) for decades of over-policing, disproportionate incarceration and housing discrimination.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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California's Democratic state Senator Steven Bradford has given a stark reality check to the African Americans in the state who were hoping to receive massive reparation payments.

California's Democratic state Senator Steven Bradford has given a stark reality check to the African Americans in the state who were hoping to receive massive reparation payments. Bradford, who served on the California Reparations Task Force that recommended the state pay up to $1.2 million in reparations to each eligible Black resident said people should keep their 'expectations' in check. Bradford said “anything’s possible if the money’s there,” but remained “realistic” that it could be difficult to garner enough support. “I don’t want to set folks’ expectations and hopes up that they’re going to be getting, you know, seven-figure checks,” Bradford said in an interview. “That’s just not happening.” He added that lawmakers had not even debated where the money for the reparation payment would come from. WATCH | WION Fineprint | What has happened after George Floyd's killing | Black America still 'can't breathe' × Notably, Bradford is not the only Democrat leader casting aspersions over the reparation payments. Reportedly, California Governor Gavin Newsom has also refused to lend his support to the initiative. "Dealing with that legacy is about much more than cash payments. Many of the recommendations put forward by the Task Force are critical action items we’ve already been hard at work addressing," Newsom told Fox News Digital. "Breaking down barriers to vote, bolstering resources to address hate, enacting sweeping law enforcement and justice reforms to build trust and safety, strengthening economic mobility - all while investing billions to root out disparities and improve equity in housing, education, healthcare, and well beyond. This work must continue," he added. The Democrat leader, however, applauded the work of the task force and said his administration will continue the process of healing. ALSO READ | California Governor Newsom refuses to back reparations proposal for Black residents Disappointed by the comments of Democrat leaders, Los Angeles resident and reparations activist Marcus Champion remarked, “That is not the way you come to the table to pay a historic debt. That is not the way that you come to the table in any type of negotiation. Start as high as you possibly can, and then work from there.” Proposals approved by the task force Last week, a nine-member Reparation Task Force, formed nearly two years ago, met in Oakland and gave final approval to the list of proposals which will now head to the state lawmakers to be considered for legislation. Among the list of approvals granted by the task force is a public apology, acknowledging the state’s responsibility for past wrongs and promising that it will not repeat them. However, the biggest talking point has been the reparation money that the exchequer might owe to the Black residents if the proposal is turned into a law. According to some reports, the proposal, if implemented, could cost as much as $800 billion (2.5 times the annual budget of California) for decades of over-policing, disproportionate incarceration and housing discrimination. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'Not happening': Democrat leader on Black residents receiving millions in reparations in California

<p>A bill that would outlaw caste-based discrimination in the state of California has been passed by a large margin in the Senate amid fears in scores of Indian-Americans that it will single out Hindus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>SB 403, sponsored by Senator Aisha Wahab, passed the Senate with a vote of 34-1. The bill now heads to the Democratic-controlled State Assembly and, if passed, to Governor Gavin Newsom's desk. Newsom hasn't had a public opinion on the measure.&nbsp;</p>

<p>California will become the first state to protect caste if the law is approved.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/adani-enterprises-to-consider-fundraising-after-scrapped-fpo-591483">Adani Enterprises to consider fundraising after scrapped FPO</a></p>

<p>“There are so many people that want to heal from the trauma of caste,” a Dalit activist and the founder of the caste equity organization Equality Labs&nbsp;Thenmozhi Soundararajan told NBC after the voting.&nbsp;“What’s been incredible about this moment is to see these really beautiful inter-caste and interfaith alliances, groups that have all said that they’ve been harmed by caste and want freedom from it."</p>

<p>With the passage of this measure, caste will be added to the list of protected categories, along with race and sex, in California's current civil rights law.</p>

<p>“The more diverse California becomes and the United States becomes, we need to protect more people in the way the American dream was originally supposed to,” Senator Wahab told NBC News at the time when she introduced the bill.&nbsp;“Our laws need to expand and cover more people and go deeper.”</p>

<p>The legislation was initially introduced in the California Senate on March 22 by state senator Aisha Wahab, the first Muslim and Afghan American elected to the state senate.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-pti-leader-shireen-mazaris-arrested-cctv-footage-shows-armed-cops-entering-her-islamabad-house-591491">PTI leader Shireen Mazari arrested, CCTV footage shows armed cops entering her Islamabad house</a></p>

<p>But the law has its detractors as well. Some Indian American organisations have spoken out against SB 403, claiming that it discriminates against Indians and Hindus and that adding protection against caste discrimination is unnecessary in the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wahab, however, asserted that the legislation is intended to safeguard people of all nations, faiths, and cultures. The California Labour Federation, MeToo International, and the American Civil Liberties Union all endorse it.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Gravitas: Israeli attacks kill 4 Islamic jihad members in the Gaza strip</strong></p>

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<p>Wahab said in a news release on Thursday that she has received numerous threats, including death threats, ever since she filed the bill. Soundararajan and other Dalit activists claim that because of their work in the area of caste equity, they have become targets of doxxing and even physical abuse.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I really, truly hope that our opponents will join us and put down the sword of bigotry,” Soundararajan said.</p>

<p>“Regardless of their fragility, their discomfort is not the equivalent of the grave discrimination our community is facing. We’re just thrilled for what this means for our community to have the opportunity to reconcile and heal from this violence.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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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>


A bill that would outlaw caste-based discrimination in the state of California has been passed by a large margin in the Senate amid fears in scores of Indian-Americans that it will single out Hindus.

A bill that would outlaw caste-based discrimination in the state of California has been passed by a large margin in the Senate amid fears in scores of Indian-Americans that it will single out Hindus. SB 403, sponsored by Senator Aisha Wahab, passed the Senate with a vote of 34-1. The bill now heads to the Democratic-controlled State Assembly and, if passed, to Governor Gavin Newsom's desk. Newsom hasn't had a public opinion on the measure. California will become the first state to protect caste if the law is approved. Also Read | Adani Enterprises to consider fundraising after scrapped FPO “There are so many people that want to heal from the trauma of caste,” a Dalit activist and the founder of the caste equity organization Equality Labs Thenmozhi Soundararajan told NBC after the voting. “What’s been incredible about this moment is to see these really beautiful inter-caste and interfaith alliances, groups that have all said that they’ve been harmed by caste and want freedom from it." With the passage of this measure, caste will be added to the list of protected categories, along with race and sex, in California's current civil rights law. “The more diverse California becomes and the United States becomes, we need to protect more people in the way the American dream was originally supposed to,” Senator Wahab told NBC News at the time when she introduced the bill. “Our laws need to expand and cover more people and go deeper.” The legislation was initially introduced in the California Senate on March 22 by state senator Aisha Wahab, the first Muslim and Afghan American elected to the state senate. Also Read | PTI leader Shireen Mazari arrested, CCTV footage shows armed cops entering her Islamabad house But the law has its detractors as well. Some Indian American organisations have spoken out against SB 403, claiming that it discriminates against Indians and Hindus and that adding protection against caste discrimination is unnecessary in the United States. Wahab, however, asserted that the legislation is intended to safeguard people of all nations, faiths, and cultures. The California Labour Federation, MeToo International, and the American Civil Liberties Union all endorse it. Watch | Gravitas: Israeli attacks kill 4 Islamic jihad members in the Gaza strip × Wahab said in a news release on Thursday that she has received numerous threats, including death threats, ever since she filed the bill. Soundararajan and other Dalit activists claim that because of their work in the area of caste equity, they have become targets of doxxing and even physical abuse. “I really, truly hope that our opponents will join us and put down the sword of bigotry,” Soundararajan said. “Regardless of their fragility, their discomfort is not the equivalent of the grave discrimination our community is facing. We’re just thrilled for what this means for our community to have the opportunity to reconcile and heal from this violence.” 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 Senate passes bill to ban caste discrimination, Indian-Americans fear it will single out Hindus

<p>Couple of days after a&nbsp;California panel voted to approve millions in reparations for Black residents in the state, Democrat governor Gavin Newsom has refused to lend his support to the initiative.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Newsom said the reparations, meant to take responsibility for the country and state's apathy towards its Black residents in the past, was 'much more than cash payments'.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Dealing with that legacy is about much more than cash payments. Many of the recommendations put forward by the Task Force are critical action items we’ve already been hard at work addressing," Newson told Fox News Digital.</p>

<p>"Breaking down barriers to vote, bolstering resources to address hate, enacting sweeping law enforcement and justice reforms to build trust and safety, strengthening economic mobility - all while investing billions to root out disparities and improve equity in housing, education, healthcare, and well beyond. This work must continue," he added.</p>

<p>The Democrat leader, however, applauded the work of the task force and said his administration will continue the process of healing.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The Reparations Task Force’s independent findings and recommendations are a milestone in our bipartisan effort to advance justice and promote healing. This has been an important process, and we should continue to work as a nation to reconcile our original sin of slavery and understand how that history has shaped our country."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-2-years-after-george-floyd-killing-black-america-still-cant-breathe-482450"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | What has happened after George Floyd's killing | Black America still 'can't breathe'</strong></a></p>

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<h2><strong>Proposals approved by the task force</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, last week, a&nbsp;nine-member Reparation Task Force, formed nearly two years ago, met in Oakland and gave final approval to the list of proposals which will now head to the state lawmakers to be considered for legislation.</p>

<p>Among the list of approvals granted by the task force&nbsp;is a public apology, acknowledging the&nbsp;state’s responsibility for past wrongs and promising that it will not repeat them.</p>

<p>However, the biggest talking point has been the reparation money that the exchequer might owe to the Black residents if the proposal is turned into a law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to some reports, the proposal,&nbsp;if implemented, could cost as much as $800&nbsp;billion (2.5 times the annual budget of California) for decades of over-policing, disproportionate incarceration and housing discrimination.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-california-panel-calls-for-apology-and-billions-in-reparations-for-black-residents-589883"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;US: California panel calls for apology and billions in reparations for Black residents</strong></a></p>

<p>A New York Times report stated that eligible&nbsp;Black Californians could receive up to $148,099, with the estimate based on the figure of $3,366 for each year they lived in California from the early 1930s to the late 1970s when discriminatory practices were at their peak.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><b>WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;</b></p>

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Couple of days after a California panel voted to approve millions in reparations for Black residents in the state, Democrat governor Gavin Newsom has refused to lend his support to the initiative.

Couple of days after a California panel voted to approve millions in reparations for Black residents in the state, Democrat governor Gavin Newsom has refused to lend his support to the initiative. Newsom said the reparations, meant to take responsibility for the country and state's apathy towards its Black residents in the past, was 'much more than cash payments'. "Dealing with that legacy is about much more than cash payments. Many of the recommendations put forward by the Task Force are critical action items we’ve already been hard at work addressing," Newson told Fox News Digital. "Breaking down barriers to vote, bolstering resources to address hate, enacting sweeping law enforcement and justice reforms to build trust and safety, strengthening economic mobility - all while investing billions to root out disparities and improve equity in housing, education, healthcare, and well beyond. This work must continue," he added. The Democrat leader, however, applauded the work of the task force and said his administration will continue the process of healing. "The Reparations Task Force’s independent findings and recommendations are a milestone in our bipartisan effort to advance justice and promote healing. This has been an important process, and we should continue to work as a nation to reconcile our original sin of slavery and understand how that history has shaped our country." WATCH | WION Fineprint | What has happened after George Floyd's killing | Black America still 'can't breathe' × Proposals approved by the task force Notably, last week, a nine-member Reparation Task Force, formed nearly two years ago, met in Oakland and gave final approval to the list of proposals which will now head to the state lawmakers to be considered for legislation. Among the list of approvals granted by the task force is a public apology, acknowledging the state’s responsibility for past wrongs and promising that it will not repeat them. However, the biggest talking point has been the reparation money that the exchequer might owe to the Black residents if the proposal is turned into a law. According to some reports, the proposal, if implemented, could cost as much as $800 billion (2.5 times the annual budget of California) for decades of over-policing, disproportionate incarceration and housing discrimination. ALSO READ | US: California panel calls for apology and billions in reparations for Black residents A New York Times report stated that eligible Black Californians could receive up to $148,099, with the estimate based on the figure of $3,366 for each year they lived in California from the early 1930s to the late 1970s when discriminatory practices were at their peak. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

California Governor Newsom refuses to back reparations proposal for Black residents

<p>A nine-member Reparation Task Force in the US state of California on Saturday voted to approve recommendations that could mean hundreds of billions of dollars in payments to Black residents for injustices of the past.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The committee, formed nearly two years ago, met in Oakland and gave final approval to the list of proposals which will now head to the state lawmakers to be considered for a legislation.</p>

<p>Among the list of approvals granted by the task force&nbsp;is a public apology, acknowledging the&nbsp;state’s responsibility for past wrongs and promising that it will not repeat them.</p>

<p>Democrat leader&nbsp;Barbara Lee, who is co-sponsoring a bill to study&nbsp;reparation proposals for African Americans called upon states and the Biden administration to pass legislation regarding the same.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Reparations are not only morally justifiable, but they have the potential to address longstanding racial disparities and inequalities,” said Lee.</p>

<p>The proposal is being called the country's most sweeping effort to devise a reparations programme.&nbsp;One of the recommendations of the panel is to create a new agency that provides services to the descendant kin of enslaved people to figure out the reparation amount they are owed.</p>

<p>According to some economists, the proposal,&nbsp;if implemented, could cost the exchequer as much as $800&nbsp;billion (2.5 times the annual budget of California) for decades of over-policing, disproportionate incarceration and housing discrimination.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A New York Times report stated that eligible&nbsp;Black Californians should receive up to $148,099 with the estimate based on the figure of $3,366 for each year they lived in California from the early 1930s to the late 1970s when discriminatory practices were at their peak.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-fineprint-2-years-after-george-floyd-killing-black-america-still-cant-breathe-482450"><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;WION Fineprint | What has happened after George Floyd's killing | Black America still 'can't breathe'</strong></a></p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>San Francisco bats for reparations</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, it is not the first instance when calls for reparations have been raised in the US. In March this year, the<strong>&nbsp;</strong>city of San Francisco&nbsp;in California also expressed support for reparations.</p>

<p>The San Francisco Board of Supervisors suggested the elimination of personal debt, tax burdens and annual incomes of at least $97,000 for 250 years to Black residents.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/san-francisco-proposes-giving-5-million-in-reparations-to-black-residents-for-racism-slavery-572539"><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;San Francisco proposes giving $5mn in reparations to Black residents for racism, slavery</strong></a></p>

<p>"When you consider all of the ways in which the systems and practices have been managed to exclude and steal, if you will, the opportunities for financial mobility — families are hurting and have been for decades, if not longer," said Eric McDonnell, the reparations committee chairman.&nbsp;</p>

<p>An estimated 50,000 Black people live in the city and granting reparations to even a&nbsp;tiny faction may put a heavy toll on the exchequer, the opponents argue. The city is already facing a deficit of more than $728 million, according to reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last year, Boston City Council took a leaf out of San Franciso's book and appointed a reparations task force as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A nine-member Reparation Task Force in the US state of California on Saturday voted to approve recommendations that could mean hundreds of billions of dollars in payments to Black residents for injustices of the past.

A nine-member Reparation Task Force in the US state of California on Saturday voted to approve recommendations that could mean hundreds of billions of dollars in payments to Black residents for injustices of the past. The committee, formed nearly two years ago, met in Oakland and gave final approval to the list of proposals which will now head to the state lawmakers to be considered for a legislation. Among the list of approvals granted by the task force is a public apology, acknowledging the state’s responsibility for past wrongs and promising that it will not repeat them. Democrat leader Barbara Lee, who is co-sponsoring a bill to study reparation proposals for African Americans called upon states and the Biden administration to pass legislation regarding the same. “Reparations are not only morally justifiable, but they have the potential to address longstanding racial disparities and inequalities,” said Lee. The proposal is being called the country's most sweeping effort to devise a reparations programme. One of the recommendations of the panel is to create a new agency that provides services to the descendant kin of enslaved people to figure out the reparation amount they are owed. According to some economists, the proposal, if implemented, could cost the exchequer as much as $800 billion (2.5 times the annual budget of California) for decades of over-policing, disproportionate incarceration and housing discrimination. A New York Times report stated that eligible Black Californians should receive up to $148,099 with the estimate based on the figure of $3,366 for each year they lived in California from the early 1930s to the late 1970s when discriminatory practices were at their peak. WATCH | WION Fineprint | What has happened after George Floyd's killing | Black America still 'can't breathe' × San Francisco bats for reparations Notably, it is not the first instance when calls for reparations have been raised in the US. In March this year, the city of San Francisco in California also expressed support for reparations. The San Francisco Board of Supervisors suggested the elimination of personal debt, tax burdens and annual incomes of at least $97,000 for 250 years to Black residents. ALSO READ | San Francisco proposes giving $5mn in reparations to Black residents for racism, slavery "When you consider all of the ways in which the systems and practices have been managed to exclude and steal, if you will, the opportunities for financial mobility — families are hurting and have been for decades, if not longer," said Eric McDonnell, the reparations committee chairman. An estimated 50,000 Black people live in the city and granting reparations to even a tiny faction may put a heavy toll on the exchequer, the opponents argue. The city is already facing a deficit of more than $728 million, according to reports. Last year, Boston City Council took a leaf out of San Franciso's book and appointed a reparations task force as well. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US: California panel calls for apology and billions in reparations for Black residents

<p>Davis, the most populous city in Yolo County, California has been rocked by three separate incidents of stabbing since Thursday. The police are yet to investigate whether all the incidents are related to one suspect seen running in the Downtown area. Meanwhile, police officials in Davis have advised locals to shelter in place while the hunt for the suspect goes on.</p>

<h2><strong>Davis stabbing: Third incident in last four days</strong></h2>

<p>Since Thursday, two men have been fatally stabbed in the city. The victim of the third incident was also attacked brutally in a similar fashion but she survived the stabbing. The police have identified the victim as an unhoused woman who lives in an encampment near Second and L streets.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Gun violence in US: At least 160 shooting incidents in 2023 as mass shootings on rise</strong></p>

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<p>The first incident of stabbing took place Thursday at Central Park in downtown Davis, which ended up killing 50-year-old David Henry Breaux. The second incident happened on Saturday at Sycamore Park near Sycamore Lane and Colby Drive, which resulted in the death of a 20-year-old student.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-passenger-arrested-for-stabbing-flight-attendant-attempting-to-open-exit-door-569362">US passenger arrested for stabbing flight attendant, attempting to open exit door</a></strong></p>

<p>In a statement released later on the day, police said it was yet to locate the suspect. “Despite conducting an exhaustive search of the area surrounding the park for the suspect with the support of other Yolo County law enforcement agencies using canines and drones, the suspect has not yet been located,” police said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>UC Davis stabbing suspect</strong></h2>

<p>Davis police were responding to the third stabbing incident on Tuesday and searching for the suspect. “Officers have responded to reports of a stabbing and are looking for the suspect described as an unknown race male wearing all dark clothing, possibly a blue shirt, jeans carrying a black backpack and black Adidas with stripes,” a police statement read.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, for the first two stabbing cases, police said they were looking for a man aged between 19 and 23. Police described the suspect as a light-skinned male, possibly Hispanic,” who had “long curly loose hair.”</p>

<h2><strong>One person arrested by police</strong></h2>

<p>CBS News reported that one person was arrested regarding the stabbing incidents, who closely matched the description of the suspect. However, police failed to find any link between the person and any of the stabbing incidents.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, students in the UC Davis area have reportedly deployed extra private security on campus. Davis police officers have also been joined by special personnel from the Yolo and Sacramento County sheriff’s offices to aid in the search operation.&nbsp;</p>

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Davis, the most populous city in Yolo County, California has been rocked by three separate incidents of stabbing since Thursday. The police are yet to investigate whether all the incidents are related to one suspect seen running in the Downtown area.

Davis, the most populous city in Yolo County, California has been rocked by three separate incidents of stabbing since Thursday. The police are yet to investigate whether all the incidents are related to one suspect seen running in the Downtown area. Meanwhile, police officials in Davis have advised locals to shelter in place while the hunt for the suspect goes on. Davis stabbing: Third incident in last four days Since Thursday, two men have been fatally stabbed in the city. The victim of the third incident was also attacked brutally in a similar fashion but she survived the stabbing. The police have identified the victim as an unhoused woman who lives in an encampment near Second and L streets. Watch: Gun violence in US: At least 160 shooting incidents in 2023 as mass shootings on rise × The first incident of stabbing took place Thursday at Central Park in downtown Davis, which ended up killing 50-year-old David Henry Breaux. The second incident happened on Saturday at Sycamore Park near Sycamore Lane and Colby Drive, which resulted in the death of a 20-year-old student. Also Read | US passenger arrested for stabbing flight attendant, attempting to open exit door In a statement released later on the day, police said it was yet to locate the suspect. “Despite conducting an exhaustive search of the area surrounding the park for the suspect with the support of other Yolo County law enforcement agencies using canines and drones, the suspect has not yet been located,” police said. UC Davis stabbing suspect Davis police were responding to the third stabbing incident on Tuesday and searching for the suspect. “Officers have responded to reports of a stabbing and are looking for the suspect described as an unknown race male wearing all dark clothing, possibly a blue shirt, jeans carrying a black backpack and black Adidas with stripes,” a police statement read. Meanwhile, for the first two stabbing cases, police said they were looking for a man aged between 19 and 23. Police described the suspect as a light-skinned male, possibly Hispanic,” who had “long curly loose hair.” One person arrested by police CBS News reported that one person was arrested regarding the stabbing incidents, who closely matched the description of the suspect. However, police failed to find any link between the person and any of the stabbing incidents. Meanwhile, students in the UC Davis area have reportedly deployed extra private security on campus. Davis police officers have also been joined by special personnel from the Yolo and Sacramento County sheriff’s offices to aid in the search operation. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Davis stabbing suspects still at large as third incident occurs within last four days 

<p>A 79-year-old man from California's San Bernardino was beaten to death while delivering donations to the poor in Mexico's Tijuana, according to authorities and the man's family. Rudy Lazo was killed during an apparent robbery in mid-April. His body was discovered on April 19. According to a report carried by NBC last Saturday (April 29), Lazo's son and daughter said their father would often make trips from his home in San Bernardino to deliver toys and necessities to families in Tijuana.</p>

<p>Rudy's son Juan Carlos said that his father was a very generous person and helped anyone out. Carlos travelled to Mexico to find Rudy's body. He believed that his father was killed during a robbery.</p>

<p>"He didn’t deserve it. Actually no, no human being deserves this," Carlos said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The NBC report said that Rudy's truck and personal items were never found and his family pointed out that Mexican authorities made no arrests.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His daughter Claudia Hernandez said that the situation in Tijuana is very dangerous. "So dangerous and he probably thought he wasn’t going to have problems because he is a senior citizen," Hernandez added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rudy Lazo immigrated to the US from El Salvador in the 1980s and was working as a truck driver. Lazo's family said he had a big heart and a desire to give to those in need. The 79-year-old even had plans to build a community centre in Tijuana.</p>

<p>His killing comes months after the US State Department warned American citizens to avoid travelling to parts of Mexico over fears of kidnapping and other crimes across multiple states.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, on Wednesday, US and Mexican officials agreed on new immigration policies meant to deter illegal border crossings while also opening up other pathways ahead of an expected increase in migrants after the end of Covid restrictions next week.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As per the agreement, Mexico would continue to accept migrants from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba and Nicaragua who have been turned away at the border, and up to 100,000 individuals from Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador who have family in the US would be eligible to live and work there.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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A 79-year-old man from California's San Bernardino was beaten to death while delivering donations to the poor in Mexico's Tijuana, according to authorities and the man's family.

A 79-year-old man from California's San Bernardino was beaten to death while delivering donations to the poor in Mexico's Tijuana, according to authorities and the man's family. Rudy Lazo was killed during an apparent robbery in mid-April. His body was discovered on April 19. According to a report carried by NBC last Saturday (April 29), Lazo's son and daughter said their father would often make trips from his home in San Bernardino to deliver toys and necessities to families in Tijuana. Rudy's son Juan Carlos said that his father was a very generous person and helped anyone out. Carlos travelled to Mexico to find Rudy's body. He believed that his father was killed during a robbery. "He didn’t deserve it. Actually no, no human being deserves this," Carlos said. The NBC report said that Rudy's truck and personal items were never found and his family pointed out that Mexican authorities made no arrests. His daughter Claudia Hernandez said that the situation in Tijuana is very dangerous. "So dangerous and he probably thought he wasn’t going to have problems because he is a senior citizen," Hernandez added. Rudy Lazo immigrated to the US from El Salvador in the 1980s and was working as a truck driver. Lazo's family said he had a big heart and a desire to give to those in need. The 79-year-old even had plans to build a community centre in Tijuana. His killing comes months after the US State Department warned American citizens to avoid travelling to parts of Mexico over fears of kidnapping and other crimes across multiple states. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, US and Mexican officials agreed on new immigration policies meant to deter illegal border crossings while also opening up other pathways ahead of an expected increase in migrants after the end of Covid restrictions next week. As per the agreement, Mexico would continue to accept migrants from Venezuela, Haiti, Cuba and Nicaragua who have been turned away at the border, and up to 100,000 individuals from Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador who have family in the US would be eligible to live and work there. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US man beaten to death in Mexico's Tijuana while delivering donations: Report

<p>An Indian-origin man in the US was convicted of killing three 16-year-old boys after they played a doorbell prank at his house in California in 2020.</p>

<p>Officials said that Anurag Chandra deliberately rammed his car into a Toyota Prius carrying six teenagers, causing it to crash into a tree. Three of the teens succumbed while others suffered injuries.</p>

<p>During his testimony, Chandra claimed that one of the teens flashed his buttocks before running away which made him “extremely, extremely mad”.</p>

<p>At the time of the incident, Chandra was said to be heavily drunk, with officers claiming that he had 12 beers that day.</p>

<p>He claimed that he was worried about his family’s safety, and hence followed the boys before ramming his car into theirs in Temescal Valley. Chandra then fled the scene.</p>

<p>The suspect further said that he never intended to escape as he did not think anyone would get injured or die after the crash.</p>

<p>Chandra then admitted that he drove up to 99 miles per hour before the fatal crash.</p>

<p>USA Today quoting court records said Chandra was already facing charges for&nbsp;alleged battery on a cohabitant and child endangerment at the time.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>The fatal ding-dong ditch tragedy</strong></h2>

<p>The tragedy occurred on January 19, 2020, when the teens were having a sleepover. One of them dared to either jump into a pool or do a "doorbell ditch," investigators said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They drove to a nearby house, where one of the boys rang Chandra's doorbell and ran back to the Prius.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chandra, officials said, chased after them in his&nbsp;Infinity Q50. He rammed them and they crashed into a tree in&nbsp;Temescal Valley, about 60 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Daniel Hawkins of Corona, Drake Ruiz of Corona, and Jacob Ivascu of Riverside, all 16, were killed. Sergio Campusano, 18 at the time, was driving the Prius. He and then-13-year-olds Joshua Hawkins and Joshua Ivascu survived the crash.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>

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An Indian-origin man in the US was convicted of killing three 16-year-old boys after they played a doorbell prank at his house in California in 2020. Officials said that Anurag Chandra deliberately rammed his car into a Toyota Prius carrying six teenagers, causing it to crash into a tree.

An Indian-origin man in the US was convicted of killing three 16-year-old boys after they played a doorbell prank at his house in California in 2020. Officials said that Anurag Chandra deliberately rammed his car into a Toyota Prius carrying six teenagers, causing it to crash into a tree. Three of the teens succumbed while others suffered injuries. During his testimony, Chandra claimed that one of the teens flashed his buttocks before running away which made him “extremely, extremely mad”. At the time of the incident, Chandra was said to be heavily drunk, with officers claiming that he had 12 beers that day. He claimed that he was worried about his family’s safety, and hence followed the boys before ramming his car into theirs in Temescal Valley. Chandra then fled the scene. The suspect further said that he never intended to escape as he did not think anyone would get injured or die after the crash. Chandra then admitted that he drove up to 99 miles per hour before the fatal crash. USA Today quoting court records said Chandra was already facing charges for alleged battery on a cohabitant and child endangerment at the time. The fatal ding-dong ditch tragedy The tragedy occurred on January 19, 2020, when the teens were having a sleepover. One of them dared to either jump into a pool or do a "doorbell ditch," investigators said. They drove to a nearby house, where one of the boys rang Chandra's doorbell and ran back to the Prius. Chandra, officials said, chased after them in his Infinity Q50. He rammed them and they crashed into a tree in Temescal Valley, about 60 miles southeast of downtown Los Angeles. Daniel Hawkins of Corona, Drake Ruiz of Corona, and Jacob Ivascu of Riverside, all 16, were killed. Sergio Campusano, 18 at the time, was driving the Prius. He and then-13-year-olds Joshua Hawkins and Joshua Ivascu survived the crash. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: Indian-origin man found guilty of killing three boys who played doorbell prank

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