With the Texas shooting triggering a debate on stricter gun laws, a two-year-old accidentally shot and killed his father in Florida. According to the local authorities, the toddler's parents had left a loaded gun unattended.

The child's mother Marie Ayala was providing CPR to her husband, Reggie Mabry when the police officers arrived at the victim's home near Orlando after they were alerted by a 911 call.

Orange County Sheriff John Mina said at a news conference that law enforcement initially believed that Reggie shot himself.

But later during the investigation, the eldest of the couple's three children later told investigators that the trigger was pulled by his two-year-old brother.

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Sheriff John Mina provides details on the case of a two-year-old who got a hold of his parents’ gun. The boy shot and killed his father on May 26. <a href="https://t.co/stgC6yNFj5">pic.twitter.com/stgC6yNFj5</a>
— Orange County Sheriff's Office (@OrangeCoSheriff) <a href="https://twitter.com/OrangeCoSheriff/status/1533884468213207040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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According to court documents, Reggie was playing a video game on a computer while his gun was in a bag that Mabry had left on the ground and the child accidentally shot his father in the back after he found it.

The traumatic incident was witnessed by all five family members who were in the same room at the time, including a five-month-old girl.

Mina said that there were both parents were on parole at the time following multiple offenses of child neglect and drug use.

"Gun owners that do not properly secure their firearms are just one split second away from one of these tragedies happening in their homes," Mina said.&nbsp;

"Now these young children have effectively lost both of their parents. Their father is dead. Their mother is in jail, and a young child has to live their life knowing that he shot his father," the sheriff added.

A similar incident had occurred last year in August when another two-year-old child found her mother's gun in her Paw Patrol backpack, while she taking part in a video conference and&nbsp;she accidentally shot her mother in the head.

(With inputs from agencies)

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With the Texas shooting triggering a debate on stricter gun laws, a two-year-old accidentally shot and killed his father in Florida. According to the local authorities, the toddler's parents had left a loaded gun unattended.

With the Texas shooting triggering a debate on stricter gun laws, a two-year-old accidentally shot and killed his father in Florida. According to the local authorities, the toddler's parents had left a loaded gun unattended. The child's mother Marie Ayala was providing CPR to her husband, Reggie Mabry when the police officers arrived at the victim's home near Orlando after they were alerted by a 911 call. Orange County Sheriff John Mina said at a news conference that law enforcement initially believed that Reggie shot himself. But later during the investigation, the eldest of the couple's three children later told investigators that the trigger was pulled by his two-year-old brother. Sheriff John Mina provides details on the case of a two-year-old who got a hold of his parents’ gun. The boy shot and killed his father on May 26. pic.twitter.com/stgC6yNFj5 — Orange County Sheriff's Office (@OrangeCoSheriff) June 6, 2022 × According to court documents, Reggie was playing a video game on a computer while his gun was in a bag that Mabry had left on the ground and the child accidentally shot his father in the back after he found it. The traumatic incident was witnessed by all five family members who were in the same room at the time, including a five-month-old girl. Mina said that there were both parents were on parole at the time following multiple offenses of child neglect and drug use. "Gun owners that do not properly secure their firearms are just one split second away from one of these tragedies happening in their homes," Mina said. "Now these young children have effectively lost both of their parents. Their father is dead. Their mother is in jail, and a young child has to live their life knowing that he shot his father," the sheriff added. A similar incident had occurred last year in August when another two-year-old child found her mother's gun in her Paw Patrol backpack, while she taking part in a video conference and she accidentally shot her mother in the head. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Florida: After parents leave loaded gun unattended, two-year-old son accidentally shoots and kills father

According to reports, 100 vehicles were left stranded overnight in floodwaters as heavy rains brings flooding to Miami.

US: Storm inundates south Florida

Police in Florida has arrested a 10-year-old boy for allegedly threatening a mass shooting at his elementary school.

Daniel Issac Marquez, a student at Patriot Elementary School in Cape Coral, sent a message to his friend saying he bought four assault rifles and said ''Get ready for water day,'' according to his arrest report.

His threat was taken seriously after the nation's deadliest school shooting in a decade as federal officials announced they would review local law enforcement's slow response to the attack.

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Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno said Marquez's case is being handled by the Youth Services Criminal Investigations Division.

“Right now is not the time to act like a little delinquent. It's not funny. This child made a fake threat, and now he's experiencing real consequences,” Marceno told reporters.

“This student's behaviour is sickening, especially after the recent tragedy in Uvalde, Texas. Making sure our children are safe is paramount,” he added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/americas-love-for-military-style-weapons-and-ar-15-the-assault-rifle-used-in-texas-school-shooting-482652">America's love for military style weapons and AR-15, the assault rifle used in Texas school shooting</a>

Anger has mounted over the decision by law enforcement agencies in Uvalde to allow the shooter to remain in a classroom for nearly an hour while officers waited in the hallway and children inside the room made panicked 911 calls for help.

Police say the gunman, 18-year-old Salvador Ramos, entered the school on Tuesday with an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle after earlier shooting his grandmother, who survived.

He shot dead 21 people including 19 students and two teachers, with President Joe Biden vowing to push for stricter US gun regulation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Police in Florida has arrested a 10-year-old boy for allegedly threatening a mass shooting at his elementary school. Daniel Issac Marquez, a student at Patriot Elementary School in Cape Coral, sent a message to his friend saying he bought four assault rifles and said ''Get ready for water day,'' according to his arrest report.

Police in Florida has arrested a 10-year-old boy for allegedly threatening a mass shooting at his elementary school. Daniel Issac Marquez, a student at Patriot Elementary School in Cape Coral, sent a message to his friend saying he bought four assault rifles and said ''Get ready for water day,'' according to his arrest report. His threat was taken seriously after the nation's deadliest school shooting in a decade as federal officials announced they would review local law enforcement's slow response to the attack. Lee County Sheriff Carmine Marceno said Marquez's case is being handled by the Youth Services Criminal Investigations Division. “Right now is not the time to act like a little delinquent. It's not funny. This child made a fake threat, and now he's experiencing real consequences,” Marceno told reporters. “This student's behaviour is sickening, especially after the recent tragedy in Uvalde, Texas. Making sure our children are safe is paramount,” he added. Also read | America's love for military style weapons and AR-15, the assault rifle used in Texas school shooting Anger has mounted over the decision by law enforcement agencies in Uvalde to allow the shooter to remain in a classroom for nearly an hour while officers waited in the hallway and children inside the room made panicked 911 calls for help. Police say the gunman, 18-year-old Salvador Ramos, entered the school on Tuesday with an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle after earlier shooting his grandmother, who survived. He shot dead 21 people including 19 students and two teachers, with President Joe Biden vowing to push for stricter US gun regulation. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

Florida police arrest 10-year-old boy for alleged mass shooting threat after Texas massacre

It was nothing short of a miracle. Something that has only been witnessed in movies so far.

A pilot manning the Cessna 208 Caravan plane heading to Florida had suddenly become ill. With no co-pilot by his side, an unnamed passenger, with no prior flying skills and who was heading home to see his pregnant wife, decided to have a go at the private plane.

The result: The plane landed safely, no one was harmed, and the man who flew the single-engine plane instantly became a hero globally.

The incident took place on Tuesday. The plane took off from Leonard M. Thompson International Airport in Marsh Harbor, the Bahamas, and was headed to Florida on Tuesday afternoon when the drama began.

Two people were aboard the single-engine Cessna 208 when the pilot had a "possible medical issue," the Federal Aviation Administration said in a statement, CNN reported.

The condition of the pilot was not immediately known.

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This is brand new video (courtesy of Jeff Chandler) of a passenger landing a plane today at PBIA. 
 
His pilot had passed out, and the passenger with zero flight experience was forced to land the plane. 
 
Team coverage of this amazing landing is on <a href="https://twitter.com/WPBF25News?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WPBF25News</a> at 11. <a href="https://t.co/jFLIlTp6Zs">pic.twitter.com/jFLIlTp6Zs</a>
— Ari Hait (@wpbf_ari) <a href="https://twitter.com/wpbf_ari/status/1524221187009781766?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 11, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Sensing the gravity of the situation, the unnamed man decided to pilot it. But the problem was, he didn’t know how to fly it.

“I've got a serious situation here,' the passenger reportedly told the air traffic control in Fort Pierce, while flying over the Florida coastline around 70 miles north of his destination, according to CNN.

“My pilot has gone incoherent. I have no idea how to fly the airplane,” he said.

To which Air traffic control replied, “Roger. What's your position?”

For the next four minutes, the passenger remained remarkably calm as he tried to work out what to do and wait for the air traffic controller to find his aircraft.&nbsp;

"Try to hold the wings level and see if you can start descending for me. Push forward on the controls and descend at a very slow rate," the air traffic controller can be heard telling the man.”

The man was found flying off the coast of Boca Raton, and the air traffic control at Palm Beach airport managed to guide him on how to land the plane.

An aviation expert told CNN it is not uncommon for small turboprop airplanes such as the Cessna 208 Caravan to fly with only one pilot, particularly when the flights are private.&nbsp;

According to Daily Mail, an FAA spokesperson confirmed they were investigating the incident and said the pilot suffered a 'possible medical issue'. Though they did not provide any further details on his condition.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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It was nothing short of a miracle. Something that has only been witnessed in movies so far. A pilot manning the Cessna 208 Caravan plane heading to Florida had suddenly become ill.

It was nothing short of a miracle. Something that has only been witnessed in movies so far. A pilot manning the Cessna 208 Caravan plane heading to Florida had suddenly become ill. With no co-pilot by his side, an unnamed passenger, with no prior flying skills and who was heading home to see his pregnant wife, decided to have a go at the private plane. The result: The plane landed safely, no one was harmed, and the man who flew the single-engine plane instantly became a hero globally. The incident took place on Tuesday. The plane took off from Leonard M. Thompson International Airport in Marsh Harbor, the Bahamas, and was headed to Florida on Tuesday afternoon when the drama began. Two people were aboard the single-engine Cessna 208 when the pilot had a "possible medical issue," the Federal Aviation Administration said in a statement, CNN reported. The condition of the pilot was not immediately known. This is brand new video (courtesy of Jeff Chandler) of a passenger landing a plane today at PBIA. His pilot had passed out, and the passenger with zero flight experience was forced to land the plane. Team coverage of this amazing landing is on @WPBF25News at 11. pic.twitter.com/jFLIlTp6Zs — Ari Hait (@wpbf_ari) May 11, 2022 × Sensing the gravity of the situation, the unnamed man decided to pilot it. But the problem was, he didn’t know how to fly it. “I've got a serious situation here,' the passenger reportedly told the air traffic control in Fort Pierce, while flying over the Florida coastline around 70 miles north of his destination, according to CNN. “My pilot has gone incoherent. I have no idea how to fly the airplane,” he said. To which Air traffic control replied, “Roger. What's your position?” For the next four minutes, the passenger remained remarkably calm as he tried to work out what to do and wait for the air traffic controller to find his aircraft. "Try to hold the wings level and see if you can start descending for me. Push forward on the controls and descend at a very slow rate," the air traffic controller can be heard telling the man.” The man was found flying off the coast of Boca Raton, and the air traffic control at Palm Beach airport managed to guide him on how to land the plane. An aviation expert told CNN it is not uncommon for small turboprop airplanes such as the Cessna 208 Caravan to fly with only one pilot, particularly when the flights are private. According to Daily Mail, an FAA spokesperson confirmed they were investigating the incident and said the pilot suffered a 'possible medical issue'. Though they did not provide any further details on his condition. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch: Passenger with no flying experience lands plane in Florida after pilot gets ill

The residents of Florida were in for a visual treat when SpaceX launched 53 internet satellites, known as Starlinks satellite, into space.

The Falcon 9 rocket's launch didn’t create any excitement per se, but the after effect of it that illuminated the sky mesmerised millions of people in the city.

On early Thursday morning, many witnessed a striking spectacle above—an ethereal cloud of illuminated gases that resembled a jellyfish.

It earned the moniker “space jellyfish” from the expanding gasses behind the rocket that created these eerie coloured clouds.

Explaining the phenomenon, SpaceX's director of Dragon mission management Jessica Jenson told media, "Basically, what's happening is, it's still dark outside, but you have the sun illuminating the plume as it's in space."

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🚀 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/spacex?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#spacex</a> Starlink mission launching into Orbital Sunrise this morning! As seen from Tampa, Florida. 
 
Photo: me for <a href="https://twitter.com/SuperclusterHQ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SuperclusterHQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/TpegAi8gEA">pic.twitter.com/TpegAi8gEA</a>
— Erik Kuna 🚀 (@erikkuna) <a href="https://twitter.com/erikkuna/status/1522517520024064002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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So cool. 
 
A <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpaceX</a> launch seen from a friend piloting an early morning departure from <a href="https://twitter.com/MCO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MCO</a> today. <a href="https://t.co/PPBzZUGnWZ">pic.twitter.com/PPBzZUGnWZ</a>
— Edward Russell (@ByERussell) <a href="https://twitter.com/ByERussell/status/1522591366383087617?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Falcon 9’s first stage has landed on the A Shortfall of Gravitas droneship <a href="https://t.co/Yvw0IDTGa1">pic.twitter.com/Yvw0IDTGa1</a>
— SpaceX (@SpaceX) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX/status/1522514421171384320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Chris Combs, a professor of aerodynamics and mechanical engineering at the University of Texas at San Antonio, on Twitter wrote that it is a combination of physics and perfect timing.

Combs explained that the long, blobby "body" of the jellyfish is, simply, exhaust leaving the Falcon 9's rocket engine nozzle.

The reason the exhaust takes on such a bulbous shape has to do with the pressure difference inside and outside the nozzle.

In this case, the exhaust leaving the nozzle is "under-expanded" – meaning the gas is at higher pressure than the ambient air around it as the exhaust leaves the engine's nozzle, reports Live Science.&nbsp;

To match the ambient background pressure in the atmosphere, the rocket exhaust drops its own pressure by expanding as soon as it leaves the nozzle, he said.

"In under-expanded exhaust you get expansion fans at the nozzle exit to decrease pressure and match background: jellyfish, at high altitude.”

Now explaining the reason behind the glow, Comb said that it is purely because of the timing.

Since the rocket launch occurred in the pre-dawn hours of Thursday morning (around 5:45 a.m. local time), light from the sun came from just over the horizon, illuminating up the exhaust plume, causing it to glow brightly against the dark sky, he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The residents of Florida were in for a visual treat when SpaceX launched 53 internet satellites, known as Starlinks satellite, into space. The Falcon 9 rocket's launch didn’t create any excitement per se, but the after effect of it that illuminated the sky mesmerised millions of people in the city.

The residents of Florida were in for a visual treat when SpaceX launched 53 internet satellites, known as Starlinks satellite, into space. The Falcon 9 rocket's launch didn’t create any excitement per se, but the after effect of it that illuminated the sky mesmerised millions of people in the city. On early Thursday morning, many witnessed a striking spectacle above—an ethereal cloud of illuminated gases that resembled a jellyfish. It earned the moniker “space jellyfish” from the expanding gasses behind the rocket that created these eerie coloured clouds. Explaining the phenomenon, SpaceX's director of Dragon mission management Jessica Jenson told media, "Basically, what's happening is, it's still dark outside, but you have the sun illuminating the plume as it's in space." 🚀 #spacex Starlink mission launching into Orbital Sunrise this morning! As seen from Tampa, Florida. Photo: me for @SuperclusterHQ pic.twitter.com/TpegAi8gEA — Erik Kuna 🚀 (@erikkuna) May 6, 2022 × So cool. A @SpaceX launch seen from a friend piloting an early morning departure from @MCO today. pic.twitter.com/PPBzZUGnWZ — Edward Russell (@ByERussell) May 6, 2022 × Falcon 9’s first stage has landed on the A Shortfall of Gravitas droneship pic.twitter.com/Yvw0IDTGa1 — SpaceX (@SpaceX) May 6, 2022 × Chris Combs, a professor of aerodynamics and mechanical engineering at the University of Texas at San Antonio, on Twitter wrote that it is a combination of physics and perfect timing. Combs explained that the long, blobby "body" of the jellyfish is, simply, exhaust leaving the Falcon 9's rocket engine nozzle. The reason the exhaust takes on such a bulbous shape has to do with the pressure difference inside and outside the nozzle. In this case, the exhaust leaving the nozzle is "under-expanded" – meaning the gas is at higher pressure than the ambient air around it as the exhaust leaves the engine's nozzle, reports Live Science. To match the ambient background pressure in the atmosphere, the rocket exhaust drops its own pressure by expanding as soon as it leaves the nozzle, he said. "In under-expanded exhaust you get expansion fans at the nozzle exit to decrease pressure and match background: jellyfish, at high altitude.” Now explaining the reason behind the glow, Comb said that it is purely because of the timing. Since the rocket launch occurred in the pre-dawn hours of Thursday morning (around 5:45 a.m. local time), light from the sun came from just over the horizon, illuminating up the exhaust plume, causing it to glow brightly against the dark sky, he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Is that a space jellyfish? SpaceX rocket launch illuminates sky, gives visual treat to viewers

US officials have arrested Prime Minister of the British Virgin Island, Andrew Fahie under charges of drug smuggling and money laundering in the US state of Florida

British Virgin Island: PM Andrew Fahie under arrest in drug smuggling case

A police officer in Florida risked his life to save a baby that was stuck on a balcony of a third-story apartment after it caught fire.

The netizens were all in praise of the officer after a video of the dramatic incident went viral. According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the scene was captured on the deputy's body camera.

The video posted online appears to show Puzynski telling the woman “hand me the baby, hand me the baby. We are coming,” as he goes up and balances himself on the railing before she extends the crying baby to him

“Please, come get me,” she pleads afterwards.

The police got a call around 4.15 am about a baby and her mother trying to escape the blaze at the Isles at East Millenia complex, officials said in a news release.

After spotting the mother-daughter duo stuck on the third floor of the engulfed apartment, the deputy immediately scaled the second-floor balcony, grabbed the child and passed her down to other deputies on the ground.

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Amazing video of OCSO Deputy rescuing baby girl from fire! 
 
Early this morning, deputies were assisting <a href="https://twitter.com/OCFireRescue?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OCFireRescue</a> &amp; saw a baby &amp; mom on 3rd floor balcony with flames coming from the apartment. Deputy Puzynski climbed the outside balconies &amp; mom handed baby down to him. <a href="https://t.co/T5JeXLY7tA">pic.twitter.com/T5JeXLY7tA</a>
— Orange County Sheriff's Office (@OrangeCoSheriff) <a href="https://twitter.com/OrangeCoSheriff/status/1517929927596720128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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“Just before climbing up the building, Deputy Puzynski took off his heavy outer ballistic vest - which his camera is attached to - to make it easier for him to climb. It’s an amazing twist of fate that the camera was able to capture what happened next,” the release said.

Sharing his experience with CNN affiliate WKMG, Puzynski said, “When I got here, we saw the building fully engulfed. It was chaos everywhere.”

“Afterwards when the mom came and found me, she actually gave me a hug, so it was rewarding,” he said.

“It’s a different feeling. Some nights you go home, and you don’t really know if you’ve made a difference, but in situations like this you feel it,” he added.

After ensuring the baby’s safety, the police officers on the ground rescued the mother and grandmother using a ladder.

No casualties were reported from the scene and no deputies were injured during the blaze, officials said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A police officer in Florida risked his life to save a baby that was stuck on a balcony of a third-story apartment after it caught fire. The netizens were all in praise of the officer after a video of the dramatic incident went viral.

A police officer in Florida risked his life to save a baby that was stuck on a balcony of a third-story apartment after it caught fire. The netizens were all in praise of the officer after a video of the dramatic incident went viral. According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the scene was captured on the deputy's body camera. The video posted online appears to show Puzynski telling the woman “hand me the baby, hand me the baby. We are coming,” as he goes up and balances himself on the railing before she extends the crying baby to him “Please, come get me,” she pleads afterwards. The police got a call around 4.15 am about a baby and her mother trying to escape the blaze at the Isles at East Millenia complex, officials said in a news release. After spotting the mother-daughter duo stuck on the third floor of the engulfed apartment, the deputy immediately scaled the second-floor balcony, grabbed the child and passed her down to other deputies on the ground. Amazing video of OCSO Deputy rescuing baby girl from fire! Early this morning, deputies were assisting @OCFireRescue & saw a baby & mom on 3rd floor balcony with flames coming from the apartment. Deputy Puzynski climbed the outside balconies & mom handed baby down to him. pic.twitter.com/T5JeXLY7tA — Orange County Sheriff's Office (@OrangeCoSheriff) April 23, 2022 × “Just before climbing up the building, Deputy Puzynski took off his heavy outer ballistic vest - which his camera is attached to - to make it easier for him to climb. It’s an amazing twist of fate that the camera was able to capture what happened next,” the release said. Sharing his experience with CNN affiliate WKMG, Puzynski said, “When I got here, we saw the building fully engulfed. It was chaos everywhere.” “Afterwards when the mom came and found me, she actually gave me a hug, so it was rewarding,” he said. “It’s a different feeling. Some nights you go home, and you don’t really know if you’ve made a difference, but in situations like this you feel it,” he added. After ensuring the baby’s safety, the police officers on the ground rescued the mother and grandmother using a ladder. No casualties were reported from the scene and no deputies were injured during the blaze, officials said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Watch: Police officer risks life to save baby stuck at burning apartment in US

Scientists in the American state of Florida are trying to restore the damaged reefs off the coast of Florida as a new disease called stony coral tissue loss has been posing a serious threat to several coral species.

Deadly coral disease grips Florida coast, efforts on to restore damaged reef

Cruise ships on a key West Island in Florida face the heat from the local residents. Residents say cruises affect the environment.

Key West Island in Florida faces dispute over cruise ships, residents say cruises affect environment

A 35-year-old babysitter in Florida has been arrested over claims that she put a four-year-old baby in the laundry dryer and switched it on. She has been arrested on child abuse charges. The woman, who has been identified as Amber Chapman, was arrested by Lake County Sheriff's Office on Saturday.&nbsp;

As quoted by several US media outlets, the boy told authorities that "Miss Chapman" had put him inside the machine and he "went around and around", ABC Local 10 News&nbsp;reported.

As per the media reports, the incident came to light when the child arrived at the emergency room of UF Health Leesburg Hospital on February 1.&nbsp;

As per reports by ClickOrlando, the four-year-old had "grape-sized" bruises on his head, face, back and abdomen. However, it's unclear whether the bruises were severe and how exactly he got them.&nbsp;

Media reports mentioned that he took the name of "Miss Amber" when doctors asked him about the injuries. The tot said told them "Miss Amber" had placed him in the dryer with towels.&nbsp;

The details were mentioned in the arrest affidavit as per US media reports.&nbsp;

It has been understood that officers arrested her last week after collecting sufficient evidence. However, she was later released on a $15,000 bond. She faces a first-degree felony charge of aggravated child abuse.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Michigan police department releases videos showing fatal shooting of Patrick Lyoya

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&nbsp;

A 35-year-old babysitter in Florida has been arrested over claims that she put a four-year-old baby in the laundry dryer and switched it on. She has been arrested on child abuse charges.

A 35-year-old babysitter in Florida has been arrested over claims that she put a four-year-old baby in the laundry dryer and switched it on. She has been arrested on child abuse charges. The woman, who has been identified as Amber Chapman, was arrested by Lake County Sheriff's Office on Saturday. As quoted by several US media outlets, the boy told authorities that "Miss Chapman" had put him inside the machine and he "went around and around", ABC Local 10 News reported. As per the media reports, the incident came to light when the child arrived at the emergency room of UF Health Leesburg Hospital on February 1. As per reports by ClickOrlando, the four-year-old had "grape-sized" bruises on his head, face, back and abdomen. However, it's unclear whether the bruises were severe and how exactly he got them. Media reports mentioned that he took the name of "Miss Amber" when doctors asked him about the injuries. The tot said told them "Miss Amber" had placed him in the dryer with towels. The details were mentioned in the arrest affidavit as per US media reports. It has been understood that officers arrested her last week after collecting sufficient evidence. However, she was later released on a $15,000 bond. She faces a first-degree felony charge of aggravated child abuse. WATCH | Michigan police department releases videos showing fatal shooting of Patrick Lyoya ×

'I went around and around': Boy, 4, put in laundry dryer by babysitter in Florida

In the United States, millions of genetically modified mosquitoes may soon be released in Florida and California as the country's Environmental Protection Agency has approved Oxitec's pilot projects related to mosquitoes.

In the United States, millions of genetically modified mosquitoes may soon be released in Florida and California as the country's Environmental Protection Agency has approved Oxitec's pilot projects related to mosquitoes. The UK-based biotechnology company Oxitec has developed millions of genetically modified mosquitoes that seek to ward off their natural, disease-causing counterparts. The company is said to be the leading developer of biological pest control solutions. Grey Frandsen, who is the CEO of Oxitec, said in a statement: "Our team is immensely proud to have received yet another milestone approval from the EPA." "This expansion of our U.S. efforts reflects the strong partnerships we’ve developed with a large and diverse range of stakeholders at the local, state, and national levels," Frandsen added. ALSO READ | Study shows several bird species nesting and laying eggs almost a month early Oxitec informed that two pilot projects were approved, one with the Delta Mosquito and Vector Control District (Delta MVCD) in California and one with the Florida Keys Mosquito Control District (FKMCD) in Florida. The latest approval is also an extension of the Experimental Use Permit (EUP) granted in 2020 by the EPA for a pilot project in the Florida Keys, which was successfully carried out in 2021. As stated by the company, safe, sustainable and targeted biological pest control technology does not harm beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. The method is proven to control the disease-transmitting Aedes aegypti mosquito, which has invaded communities in Florida, California and other US states. ALSO READ | Drinking coffee can protect heart instead of triggering ailments, help to live longer, says study As per the Oxitec, the aim is to reduce the transmission of harmful diseases, such as dengue, Zika, yellow fever and chikungunya. The data released by the company states that in California, since first being detected in 2013, this mosquito has rapidly spread to more than 20 counties throughout the state, increasing the risk. Alongside its in-depth scientific evaluation process was a 30-day period for public comments. The EPA reviewed and responded to each public comment before issuing its approval. After the EPA's approval, Oxitec will now submit permit applications to state regulators in California and Florida for their review.

US may release billions of genetically modified male mosquitoes. Here's why

The Florida Senate passed a sweeping new bill overhauling the state’s electoral process, adding new restrictions to the state election code and establishing a law enforcement office dedicated solely to investigating election crimes.

The bill, which passed 24-14, now goes to the state’s House of Representatives, where it could pass as soon as next week and land on the desk of Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican, who is expected to sign it. One Republican, state Sen. Jeff Brandes, voted against it. A Democratic senator, Loranne Ausley, initially voted yes, but immediately posted on Twitter that she “pushed the wrong button” and has since changed her vote.

Although Republicans in the state had passed another sweeping voting law in May, DeSantis made election reform one of the top priorities for this legislative session as well. Both efforts come after the 2020 election in Florida was without any major issues, and Republicans in the state touted it as a “gold standard” for election administration.

The legislation is poised to become the first major election-related bill to pass this year in a critical battleground state, and it would indicate no sign of cresting for the wave of new election laws, adding more restrictions to voting, that began last year — with 34 laws passed in 19 states.

The core of the bill is the establishment of a permanent election crimes office within the Department of State, which would make Florida one of the first states to have an agency solely dedicated to election crimes and voter fraud, despite such offenses being exceedingly rare in the United States. An investigation last year by The Associated Press found fewer than 475 potential claims of fraud out of 25.5 million ballots cast for president in Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

The new office would assist the secretary of state’s office in investigating complaints and allegations, initiating their own independent inquiries and overseeing a voter fraud hotline. It would include an unspecified number of investigators, and DeSantis would also appoint at least one special officer in each of the regional offices of the State Department of Law Enforcement to investigate election crimes.

The bill would also raise the penalties on those collecting and submitting more than two absentee ballots from a misdemeanor to a felony.

Voting rights groups are worried that the continuing criminalization of the voting process could both frighten voters away from participating and leave election officials fearing prosecution over honest mistakes.

“Involving law enforcement with this sort of vague mandate obviously creates issues and can have certainly a detrimental effect in terms of the ability of voters to cast ballots if they’re worried about law enforcement involvement,” said Daniel Griffith, policy director at Secure Democracy USA, a nonpartisan organization focused on elections and voter access. “And it has a detrimental effect on election officials if they’re worried that there’s going to be law enforcement over their shoulder.”

Previously, investigations into election fraud were handled by Florida’s secretary of state, the Department of Law Enforcement and the attorney general. Democrats argued that the bill effectively creates a new agency to do work that was done by existing agencies. The agency’s creation, Democrats say, is just a political ploy to signal that Florida and DeSantis are staying tough on an issue core to both the Republican base and to former President Donald Trump.

“Why are we doing this?” said state Sen. Lori Berman during debate Friday. “The only thing I can think is that we’re motivated by the ‘Big Lie’ that the elections nationwide didn’t take place in a proper manner. But we know that is not true.”

State Sen. Travis Hutson, sponsor of the bill and a Republican, defended it during debate Friday, stating that having a dedicated force would both uncover more fraud and make the state able to handle more allegations.

“We did have great elections, the governor mentioned that,” said Hutson. “But I would submit to you that we can always do better.”

He added: “I will say there is no voter intimidation or no suppressing votes in this bill.”

The new election office drew criticisms from some Republican members as well, who argued that it was unnecessary.

“For 15 people to go after what is potentially a handful of complaints that will ultimately be substantiated is just absolutely almost comical,” said Brandes during debate Friday, referring to suggestions from the executive branch that they assign 15 investigators to the office. “So I am not going to support this bill today.”

Uniformed law enforcement officials have been used in the past to deter and suppress voters. In 1982, the Republican National Committee dispatched a group of armed, off-duty police officers known as the National Ballot Security Task Force to linger around New Jersey polling locations during a closely contested governor’s election. The Democratic National Committee sued, forcing the RNC into a consent decree to ban such tactics.

Those memories appeared to be still on the minds of lawmakers in the Florida Legislature. During debate Thursday, state Sen. Victor Manuel Torres Jr. asked Hutson, the sponsor of the bill: “Will these individuals be in uniform or civilian attire?”

Hutson responded that the current enforcement arm of the secretary of state dresses in civilian attire and that members of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement are likely to be uniformed.

In addition to the new Office of Election Crimes and Security, the bill adds other new restrictions to voting, including banning ranked choice voting; raising the cap on fines of third-party registration groups from $1,000 to $50,000; extending a ban on private funding for election administration to include the “cost of any litigation”; and replacing references to “drop boxes” with “secure ballot intake stations.”

The Florida Senate passed a sweeping new bill overhauling the state’s electoral process, adding new restrictions to the state election code and establishing a law enforcement office dedicated solely to investigating election crimes.

The Florida Senate passed a sweeping new bill overhauling the state’s electoral process, adding new restrictions to the state election code and establishing a law enforcement office dedicated solely to investigating election crimes. The bill, which passed 24-14, now goes to the state’s House of Representatives, where it could pass as soon as next week and land on the desk of Gov. Ron DeSantis, a Republican, who is expected to sign it. One Republican, state Sen. Jeff Brandes, voted against it. A Democratic senator, Loranne Ausley, initially voted yes, but immediately posted on Twitter that she “pushed the wrong button” and has since changed her vote. Although Republicans in the state had passed another sweeping voting law in May, DeSantis made election reform one of the top priorities for this legislative session as well. Both efforts come after the 2020 election in Florida was without any major issues, and Republicans in the state touted it as a “gold standard” for election administration. The legislation is poised to become the first major election-related bill to pass this year in a critical battleground state, and it would indicate no sign of cresting for the wave of new election laws, adding more restrictions to voting, that began last year — with 34 laws passed in 19 states. The core of the bill is the establishment of a permanent election crimes office within the Department of State, which would make Florida one of the first states to have an agency solely dedicated to election crimes and voter fraud, despite such offenses being exceedingly rare in the United States. An investigation last year by The Associated Press found fewer than 475 potential claims of fraud out of 25.5 million ballots cast for president in Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. The new office would assist the secretary of state’s office in investigating complaints and allegations, initiating their own independent inquiries and overseeing a voter fraud hotline. It would include an unspecified number of investigators, and DeSantis would also appoint at least one special officer in each of the regional offices of the State Department of Law Enforcement to investigate election crimes. The bill would also raise the penalties on those collecting and submitting more than two absentee ballots from a misdemeanor to a felony. Voting rights groups are worried that the continuing criminalization of the voting process could both frighten voters away from participating and leave election officials fearing prosecution over honest mistakes. “Involving law enforcement with this sort of vague mandate obviously creates issues and can have certainly a detrimental effect in terms of the ability of voters to cast ballots if they’re worried about law enforcement involvement,” said Daniel Griffith, policy director at Secure Democracy USA, a nonpartisan organization focused on elections and voter access. “And it has a detrimental effect on election officials if they’re worried that there’s going to be law enforcement over their shoulder.” Previously, investigations into election fraud were handled by Florida’s secretary of state, the Department of Law Enforcement and the attorney general. Democrats argued that the bill effectively creates a new agency to do work that was done by existing agencies. The agency’s creation, Democrats say, is just a political ploy to signal that Florida and DeSantis are staying tough on an issue core to both the Republican base and to former President Donald Trump. “Why are we doing this?” said state Sen. Lori Berman during debate Friday. “The only thing I can think is that we’re motivated by the ‘Big Lie’ that the elections nationwide didn’t take place in a proper manner. But we know that is not true.” State Sen. Travis Hutson, sponsor of the bill and a Republican, defended it during debate Friday, stating that having a dedicated force would both uncover more fraud and make the state able to handle more allegations. “We did have great elections, the governor mentioned that,” said Hutson. “But I would submit to you that we can always do better.” He added: “I will say there is no voter intimidation or no suppressing votes in this bill.” The new election office drew criticisms from some Republican members as well, who argued that it was unnecessary. “For 15 people to go after what is potentially a handful of complaints that will ultimately be substantiated is just absolutely almost comical,” said Brandes during debate Friday, referring to suggestions from the executive branch that they assign 15 investigators to the office. “So I am not going to support this bill today.” Uniformed law enforcement officials have been used in the past to deter and suppress voters. In 1982, the Republican National Committee dispatched a group of armed, off-duty police officers known as the National Ballot Security Task Force to linger around New Jersey polling locations during a closely contested governor’s election. The Democratic National Committee sued, forcing the RNC into a consent decree to ban such tactics. Those memories appeared to be still on the minds of lawmakers in the Florida Legislature. During debate Thursday, state Sen. Victor Manuel Torres Jr. asked Hutson, the sponsor of the bill: “Will these individuals be in uniform or civilian attire?” Hutson responded that the current enforcement arm of the secretary of state dresses in civilian attire and that members of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement are likely to be uniformed. In addition to the new Office of Election Crimes and Security, the bill adds other new restrictions to voting, including banning ranked choice voting; raising the cap on fines of third-party registration groups from $1,000 to $50,000; extending a ban on private funding for election administration to include the “cost of any litigation”; and replacing references to “drop boxes” with “secure ballot intake stations.”

Florida senate passes voting bill to create election crimes agency

Florida legislators voted to ban most abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy on Thursday, a move that would severely restrict access to the procedure in a state that for decades has been a refuge for women from across the South.

The bill — modelled after a similar abortion ban in Mississippi that the U.S. Supreme Court appears poised to uphold — now heads to the desk of Gov. Ron DeSantis as part of a sweeping push by Republicans to put the state at the forefront of the nation’s culture wars. Other legislation on the verge of passage includes banning instruction about sexual orientation or gender identity in some elementary school grades and allowing parents to sue public school districts if students believe that their teacher sought to make them feel discomfort about a historical event because of their race, sex or national origin.

Impassioned critics have nicknamed that first proposal the “Don’t Say Gay” bill. Eager proponents have called the second bill the “Stop Woke Act.” Both are expected to pass before the final day of the legislative session on March 11.

“We’ve accomplished more in this state than anyone thought possible,” DeSantis told a raucous crowd at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Orlando last week, “but I’ll tell you this: We have only begun to fight.”

The efforts come amid a surge of conservative activism on social issues at the state level across the country. On Thursday, Gov. Kim Reynolds of Iowa signed into law a measure banning transgender girls and women from competing in female sports at state schools and colleges. In Texas, where the Legislature met in 2021, Republicans restricted abortion and the teaching about race in schools and expanded gun rights.

Republicans have controlled the Florida governorship and both legislative chambers since 1999. But the state remained nail-bitingly competitive in presidential and some state elections, a reflection of how its politics have mirrored the country’s: often evenly split, with its leaders wary of alienating voters if they moved too far to the extremes.

However, as national politics have become more polarized, so have Florida’s. The state’s more reliably conservative bent, the favourable environment for Republicans in the upcoming midterm elections and DeSantis’ evident presidential ambitions have emboldened Florida’s leaders to pursue legislation that would have previously seemed too divisive.

State representatives passed legislation last week that would prohibit instruction about sexual orientation or gender identity between kindergarten and third grade, “or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards.”

The same day, representatives also approved legislation that would prohibit schools from using teaching materials — and businesses from providing training to their employees — that say an individual is “inherently racist, sexist, or oppressive, whether consciously or unconsciously.”

Supporters have argued that the proposals empower parents. That message has become a national Republican rallying cry in pushing back against the teaching of institutional racism after the police killing of George Floyd and against school closures and mask mandates during the coronavirus pandemic.

Opponents have countered that the sexual orientation and gender identity bill would cause a chilling effect in classrooms beyond elementary school and harm and exclude LGBTQ youth, who are already at higher risk of bullying and suicide than their peers, and that the bill about how to teach history attempts to unfairly penalize teachers and dismiss the country’s racist past.

Last month, President Joe Biden criticized the gender and sexual orientation bill on Twitter, calling it “hateful.” In Tallahassee, seven House Republicans broke party ranks and voted against it.

Democrats number so few in the state Capitol that they are unable to block or amend most legislation. Sen. Lauren Book of Plantation, the minority leader, referred to the days remaining until the session’s end as “hell week.”

“This is probably one of the worst sessions that I’ve seen, where we’re taking issues that are going to deeply, deeply affect Floridians,” she said.

Last year, the Legislature passed laws toughening penalties against protesters and banning transgender athletes from competing for certain public school teams. Pocketbook issues, like the high cost of housing across the state or how many low-income Floridians, do not have access to health care, have mostly gone unaddressed, Democrats have lamented.

Their frustration has led to anguished public debates, sometimes with raised voices and tears. Female lawmakers on both sides of the abortion issue shared deeply personal stories about their own sexual assaults, pregnancies and abortions. In one instance, Democratic lawmakers said a Republican representative swore at them after a protest erupted near the end of a five-hour debate about the abortion bill, which passed in the House along party lines.

“This bill puts politicians, bureaucrats and the government between a woman and her access to health care,” Sen. Janet Cruz, D-Tampa, said Thursday. “It will absolutely result in a women seeking unsafe abortions and dying as a result.”

Florida currently allows abortions until 24 weeks, with fewer restrictions than other Southern states. The new, more restrictive proposal, which includes no exceptions for cases of rape or incest, passed by a 23-15 party-line vote Thursday night after an emotional debate in the state Senate. It was approved last month by the state House, and DeSantis has signalled his support.

The Supreme Court is likely to uphold a similar Mississippi law this summer. Such a ruling could upend Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that established a constitutional right to abortion and prohibited states from disallowing the procedure before fetal viability, or about 23 weeks. Similar 15-week bans are under consideration in Arizona and West Virginia.

“A child in the womb is the most vulnerable person in the world because they’re utterly helpless,” Sen. Danny Burgess, R-Zephyrhills, said before Thursday’s vote. “They have no voice, they have no vote. They rely on another person for everything, and they still matter.”

In Florida, proponents of banning abortions after 15 weeks have argued that there is significant fetal development by that point. They have also explicitly cited the Mississippi case and said they want Florida to be in position to reduce the number of abortions right away after a ruling upholding that law.

Florida has been on the cusp of significantly limiting abortions for some time, with opponents targeting the state for its relatively high rate and a number of abortions. Pregnant women from other Southern states with more restrictive laws have long travelled to Florida for the procedure.

In the past, the Florida Supreme Court has interpreted the right to privacy included in the state constitution as extending to abortion rights. But the court has turned more conservative in recent years following the retirement of several justices, who have been replaced by DeSantis appointees.

Some Republicans hoped to seek an abortion ban after six weeks of pregnancy, like the one adopted last year in Texas. Sponsors of the 15-week ban in Florida cast their legislation — which once might have seemed unthinkably restrictive considering U.S. Supreme Court rulings — as a compromise. (Exceptions would be allowed if two separate doctors could detect a “fatal fetal abnormality.”)

“That’s a great start,” Andrew Shirvell, the founder for Florida Voice for the Unborn, a group that is against abortion, told senators at a committee hearing. “But you all need to do a heck of a lot more.”

Last year, out of the roughly 68,500 abortions performed in Florida, about 4,100 were performed between 13 to 24 weeks of pregnancy, according to state data compiled for the Senate.

Mary Ziegler, an abortion law expert at Florida State University, said that the 15-week cutoff for abortions suggested that Republicans realized they could go only so far without alienating a significant portion of the electorate.

“At least some Florida Republicans perceive the Florida electorate as being more pro-choice than it would be in Georgia or Alabama,” she said. “They’re trying to do enough to please the anti-abortion base and anti-abortion donors.”

If DeSantis signs the bill or lets it become law without his signature, Florida could serve as a bellwether for conservative states that do not immediately decide to ban abortion outright if Roe v. Wade is overturned, she added.

“If you listen to Florida Republicans, they’re saying, ‘We don’t think it’s a really good idea to do any more of this right now,’” she said. “So Florida is the place to watch.”

Florida legislators voted to ban most abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy on Thursday, a move that would severely restrict access to the procedure in a state that for decades has been a refuge for women from across the South.

Florida legislators voted to ban most abortions after 15 weeks of pregnancy on Thursday, a move that would severely restrict access to the procedure in a state that for decades has been a refuge for women from across the South. The bill — modelled after a similar abortion ban in Mississippi that the U.S. Supreme Court appears poised to uphold — now heads to the desk of Gov. Ron DeSantis as part of a sweeping push by Republicans to put the state at the forefront of the nation’s culture wars. Other legislation on the verge of passage includes banning instruction about sexual orientation or gender identity in some elementary school grades and allowing parents to sue public school districts if students believe that their teacher sought to make them feel discomfort about a historical event because of their race, sex or national origin. Impassioned critics have nicknamed that first proposal the “Don’t Say Gay” bill. Eager proponents have called the second bill the “Stop Woke Act.” Both are expected to pass before the final day of the legislative session on March 11. “We’ve accomplished more in this state than anyone thought possible,” DeSantis told a raucous crowd at the Conservative Political Action Conference in Orlando last week, “but I’ll tell you this: We have only begun to fight.” The efforts come amid a surge of conservative activism on social issues at the state level across the country. On Thursday, Gov. Kim Reynolds of Iowa signed into law a measure banning transgender girls and women from competing in female sports at state schools and colleges. In Texas, where the Legislature met in 2021, Republicans restricted abortion and the teaching about race in schools and expanded gun rights. Republicans have controlled the Florida governorship and both legislative chambers since 1999. But the state remained nail-bitingly competitive in presidential and some state elections, a reflection of how its politics have mirrored the country’s: often evenly split, with its leaders wary of alienating voters if they moved too far to the extremes. However, as national politics have become more polarized, so have Florida’s. The state’s more reliably conservative bent, the favourable environment for Republicans in the upcoming midterm elections and DeSantis’ evident presidential ambitions have emboldened Florida’s leaders to pursue legislation that would have previously seemed too divisive. State representatives passed legislation last week that would prohibit instruction about sexual orientation or gender identity between kindergarten and third grade, “or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards.” The same day, representatives also approved legislation that would prohibit schools from using teaching materials — and businesses from providing training to their employees — that say an individual is “inherently racist, sexist, or oppressive, whether consciously or unconsciously.” Supporters have argued that the proposals empower parents. That message has become a national Republican rallying cry in pushing back against the teaching of institutional racism after the police killing of George Floyd and against school closures and mask mandates during the coronavirus pandemic. Opponents have countered that the sexual orientation and gender identity bill would cause a chilling effect in classrooms beyond elementary school and harm and exclude LGBTQ youth, who are already at higher risk of bullying and suicide than their peers, and that the bill about how to teach history attempts to unfairly penalize teachers and dismiss the country’s racist past. Last month, President Joe Biden criticized the gender and sexual orientation bill on Twitter, calling it “hateful.” In Tallahassee, seven House Republicans broke party ranks and voted against it. Democrats number so few in the state Capitol that they are unable to block or amend most legislation. Sen. Lauren Book of Plantation, the minority leader, referred to the days remaining until the session’s end as “hell week.” “This is probably one of the worst sessions that I’ve seen, where we’re taking issues that are going to deeply, deeply affect Floridians,” she said. Last year, the Legislature passed laws toughening penalties against protesters and banning transgender athletes from competing for certain public school teams. Pocketbook issues, like the high cost of housing across the state or how many low-income Floridians, do not have access to health care, have mostly gone unaddressed, Democrats have lamented. Their frustration has led to anguished public debates, sometimes with raised voices and tears. Female lawmakers on both sides of the abortion issue shared deeply personal stories about their own sexual assaults, pregnancies and abortions. In one instance, Democratic lawmakers said a Republican representative swore at them after a protest erupted near the end of a five-hour debate about the abortion bill, which passed in the House along party lines. “This bill puts politicians, bureaucrats and the government between a woman and her access to health care,” Sen. Janet Cruz, D-Tampa, said Thursday. “It will absolutely result in a women seeking unsafe abortions and dying as a result.” Florida currently allows abortions until 24 weeks, with fewer restrictions than other Southern states. The new, more restrictive proposal, which includes no exceptions for cases of rape or incest, passed by a 23-15 party-line vote Thursday night after an emotional debate in the state Senate. It was approved last month by the state House, and DeSantis has signalled his support. The Supreme Court is likely to uphold a similar Mississippi law this summer. Such a ruling could upend Roe v. Wade, the 1973 decision that established a constitutional right to abortion and prohibited states from disallowing the procedure before fetal viability, or about 23 weeks. Similar 15-week bans are under consideration in Arizona and West Virginia. “A child in the womb is the most vulnerable person in the world because they’re utterly helpless,” Sen. Danny Burgess, R-Zephyrhills, said before Thursday’s vote. “They have no voice, they have no vote. They rely on another person for everything, and they still matter.” In Florida, proponents of banning abortions after 15 weeks have argued that there is significant fetal development by that point. They have also explicitly cited the Mississippi case and said they want Florida to be in position to reduce the number of abortions right away after a ruling upholding that law. Florida has been on the cusp of significantly limiting abortions for some time, with opponents targeting the state for its relatively high rate and a number of abortions. Pregnant women from other Southern states with more restrictive laws have long travelled to Florida for the procedure. In the past, the Florida Supreme Court has interpreted the right to privacy included in the state constitution as extending to abortion rights. But the court has turned more conservative in recent years following the retirement of several justices, who have been replaced by DeSantis appointees. Some Republicans hoped to seek an abortion ban after six weeks of pregnancy, like the one adopted last year in Texas. Sponsors of the 15-week ban in Florida cast their legislation — which once might have seemed unthinkably restrictive considering U.S. Supreme Court rulings — as a compromise. (Exceptions would be allowed if two separate doctors could detect a “fatal fetal abnormality.”) “That’s a great start,” Andrew Shirvell, the founder for Florida Voice for the Unborn, a group that is against abortion, told senators at a committee hearing. “But you all need to do a heck of a lot more.” Last year, out of the roughly 68,500 abortions performed in Florida, about 4,100 were performed between 13 to 24 weeks of pregnancy, according to state data compiled for the Senate. Mary Ziegler, an abortion law expert at Florida State University, said that the 15-week cutoff for abortions suggested that Republicans realized they could go only so far without alienating a significant portion of the electorate. “At least some Florida Republicans perceive the Florida electorate as being more pro-choice than it would be in Georgia or Alabama,” she said. “They’re trying to do enough to please the anti-abortion base and anti-abortion donors.” If DeSantis signs the bill or lets it become law without his signature, Florida could serve as a bellwether for conservative states that do not immediately decide to ban abortion outright if Roe v. Wade is overturned, she added. “If you listen to Florida Republicans, they’re saying, ‘We don’t think it’s a really good idea to do any more of this right now,’” she said. “So Florida is the place to watch.”

Florida lawmakers vote to ban abortions after 15 weeks

A man from Florida, US,&nbsp;reportedly blamed Russian President Vladimir after the police caught him speeding.

Bodycam footage of the unidentified man arguing with a police officer was posted on Flagler County Sheriff's Office&nbsp;Facebook page on Tuesday.

The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=262694952697984">video </a>was dated February 24, 2022—the same day Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine.

According to reports, the driver was pulled over for allegedly running a stop sign and going 50 mph in a 30 mph zone.

When he was asked reasons for speeding, the man reportedly said that he was rushing home to find out more information claiming that Putin ordered a potential nuclear strike.

"To tell you the truth, I just found out that Putin has just said he is going to launch a nuclear thermal war against the world," the driver explained to the officer.

"I was trying to get back to my house to find out what is going on.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-civilians-block-russian-troops-attempt-to-take-over-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant-458475">Ukrainian civilians block Russian troops’ attempt to take over Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant</a>

"I'm freaking out here, okay. I have got people in Ukraine." The video then faded out.

Notably a few days after the traffic incident, Putin ordered the Russian defence minister and the chief of the military’s General Staff to put the nuclear deterrent forces in a “special regime of combat duty,” raising fears that the Ukraine invasion could lead to nuclear war.

“Provocative rhetoric about nuclear weapons is the height of irresponsibility,” Secretary of State&nbsp;Antony&nbsp;Blinken&nbsp;told reporters Wednesday in response to a question on whether he thought Putin was “bluffing” as the Russian leader increased the threat level.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-indian-student-taken-hostage-by-ukraine-forces-indian-govt-458366">'No Indian student taken hostage by Ukraine forces': Indian govt</a>

“It’s dangerous. It adds to the risk of miscalculation. It needs to be avoided,” Blinken said.

“We’ve assessed President Putin’s directive and his statements, and at this time, we see no reason to change our own.”

(With inputs from agencies)

A man from Florida, US, reportedly blamed Russian President Vladimir after the police caught him speeding. Bodycam footage of the unidentified man arguing with a police officer was posted on Flagler County Sheriff's Office Facebook page on Tuesday.

A man from Florida, US, reportedly blamed Russian President Vladimir after the police caught him speeding. Bodycam footage of the unidentified man arguing with a police officer was posted on Flagler County Sheriff's Office Facebook page on Tuesday. The video was dated February 24, 2022—the same day Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine. According to reports, the driver was pulled over for allegedly running a stop sign and going 50 mph in a 30 mph zone. When he was asked reasons for speeding, the man reportedly said that he was rushing home to find out more information claiming that Putin ordered a potential nuclear strike. "To tell you the truth, I just found out that Putin has just said he is going to launch a nuclear thermal war against the world," the driver explained to the officer. "I was trying to get back to my house to find out what is going on. Also read | Ukrainian civilians block Russian troops’ attempt to take over Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant "I'm freaking out here, okay. I have got people in Ukraine." The video then faded out. Notably a few days after the traffic incident, Putin ordered the Russian defence minister and the chief of the military’s General Staff to put the nuclear deterrent forces in a “special regime of combat duty,” raising fears that the Ukraine invasion could lead to nuclear war. “Provocative rhetoric about nuclear weapons is the height of irresponsibility,” Secretary of State Antony Blinken told reporters Wednesday in response to a question on whether he thought Putin was “bluffing” as the Russian leader increased the threat level. Also read | 'No Indian student taken hostage by Ukraine forces': Indian govt “It’s dangerous. It adds to the risk of miscalculation. It needs to be avoided,” Blinken said. “We’ve assessed President Putin’s directive and his statements, and at this time, we see no reason to change our own.” (With inputs from agencies)

Florida man caught speeding, blames Putin and threat of nuclear war

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/government-has-become-dictatorship-hong-kong-protestors-call-on-supporters-to-rally-outside-parliament-225932">Hong Kong</a> is gearing up for an annual pro-democracy march on Monday, the anniversary of its handover to Beijing, that could draw large crowds amid widespread anger over an extradition bill that has already seen <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/mass-protests-protect-hong-kongs-legal-autonomy-from-china-for-now-228567">millions take to the streets</a>.

In recent years, the anniversary of the handover of the former British colony in 1997 has been marked by deepening despondency about what many residents see as increasing meddling by the mainland and the erosion of freedoms.

Beijing denies interfering but for many Hong Kong residents a proposed extradition law, that would allow people to be sent to mainland China for trial, is the latest step in a relentless march towards mainland control.

Chief Secretary Matthew Cheung, writing in his blog on Sunday, appealed for calm ahead of Monday`s rally and said the government has learned from its mistakes.&nbsp;

"It is imperative to restore social order and tranquillity as soon as possible, stabilize the business environment and bring Hong Kong back on track," he said.

Embattled Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam, who has apologised for the upheaval, has not been seen in public since June 18.

The turmoil comes at a delicate time for Beijing, which is already grappling with a trade war with Washington, a faltering economy and tensions in the South China Sea.&nbsp;

"If Hong Kong is no longer an international city, Hong Kong will perish," former opposition lawmaker Margaret Ng said at a rally late on Friday. 
"It`s our responsibility to let the world know."

Lam, who is backed by Beijing, promoted and then suspended the extradition bill after some of the biggest and most violent protests in the city in decades against it.

While Lam, in her decision to suspend the bill, said she had heard the people "loud and clear", she stopped short of activists` demands to scrap it and rejected calls to step down.

Activists are also demanding the government drop all charges against those arrested during the latest protests, charge police with what they describe as excessive use of force and stop referring to the demonstrations as a riot, a term than can bring a heavier jail sentence.

In scenes that grabbed global headlines on June 12, police fired rubber bullets and tear gas on protesters near the heart of the financial centre, sending plumes of smoke billowing among some of the world`s tallest skyscrapers.

In heavy rain and sweltering heat of around 33 Celsius (91.4 Fahrenheit) on Sunday, thousands rallied in a show of support for the police, with some waving the Chinese national flag.

Former police chief Tang King-shing said he felt hurt when he saw protesters besiege police headquarters earlier in the week, adding it was as if "all the police`s contributions had been forgotten."

Organisers of Monday`s anniversary march say they are confident that anger over the city government`s failure to withdraw the extradition bill will fuel numbers.

The extradition bill has reignited a protest movement that had lost steam after pro-democracy demonstrations in 2014 failed to wrestle concessions from Beijing and led to the arrests of hundreds of activists.&nbsp;

More than a million people have taken to the streets at times over the past three weeks to vent their anger and frustration at Lam, posing the greatest popular challenge to Chinese leader Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012.

Local media reported that a 21-year-old Hong Kong student who fell to her death from an apartment building on Saturday had left behind a note opposing the extradition law.

Threat and fear

Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule on July 1, 1997, under a "one country, two systems" formula that allows freedoms not enjoyed in mainland China, including freedom of protest and a much-cherished independent judiciary.

Opponents of the extradition bill see it as a threat to the rule of law and fear it would put them at the mercy of China`s justice system where human rights are not guaranteed.

After promises that post-handover Hong Kong would enjoy autonomy, Beijing`s squeeze has fuelled resentment and in 2014 sparked pro-democracy protests that paralysed parts of the city for 79 days.&nbsp;

The failure of those protests to wrestle concessions on democracy, coupled with prosecutions of at least 100 protesters, most of them young, had discouraged many activists from going back to the streets - until recent weeks.

The turnout at the handover protest in 2018 was one of the lowest ever after Hong Kong`s opposition lost steam following the disqualification of pro-democracy legislators and the jailing of some of the most prominent activists.

Hong Kong is gearing up for an annual pro-democracy march on Monday, the anniversary of its handover to Beijing, that could draw large crowds amid widespread anger over an extradition bill that has already seen millions take to the streets.

Hong Kong is gearing up for an annual pro-democracy march on Monday, the anniversary of its handover to Beijing, that could draw large crowds amid widespread anger over an extradition bill that has already seen millions take to the streets. In recent years, the anniversary of the handover of the former British colony in 1997 has been marked by deepening despondency about what many residents see as increasing meddling by the mainland and the erosion of freedoms. Beijing denies interfering but for many Hong Kong residents a proposed extradition law, that would allow people to be sent to mainland China for trial, is the latest step in a relentless march towards mainland control. Chief Secretary Matthew Cheung, writing in his blog on Sunday, appealed for calm ahead of Monday`s rally and said the government has learned from its mistakes. "It is imperative to restore social order and tranquillity as soon as possible, stabilize the business environment and bring Hong Kong back on track," he said. Embattled Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam, who has apologised for the upheaval, has not been seen in public since June 18. The turmoil comes at a delicate time for Beijing, which is already grappling with a trade war with Washington, a faltering economy and tensions in the South China Sea. "If Hong Kong is no longer an international city, Hong Kong will perish," former opposition lawmaker Margaret Ng said at a rally late on Friday. "It`s our responsibility to let the world know." Lam, who is backed by Beijing, promoted and then suspended the extradition bill after some of the biggest and most violent protests in the city in decades against it. While Lam, in her decision to suspend the bill, said she had heard the people "loud and clear", she stopped short of activists` demands to scrap it and rejected calls to step down. Activists are also demanding the government drop all charges against those arrested during the latest protests, charge police with what they describe as excessive use of force and stop referring to the demonstrations as a riot, a term than can bring a heavier jail sentence. In scenes that grabbed global headlines on June 12, police fired rubber bullets and tear gas on protesters near the heart of the financial centre, sending plumes of smoke billowing among some of the world`s tallest skyscrapers. In heavy rain and sweltering heat of around 33 Celsius (91.4 Fahrenheit) on Sunday, thousands rallied in a show of support for the police, with some waving the Chinese national flag. Former police chief Tang King-shing said he felt hurt when he saw protesters besiege police headquarters earlier in the week, adding it was as if "all the police`s contributions had been forgotten." Organisers of Monday`s anniversary march say they are confident that anger over the city government`s failure to withdraw the extradition bill will fuel numbers. The extradition bill has reignited a protest movement that had lost steam after pro-democracy demonstrations in 2014 failed to wrestle concessions from Beijing and led to the arrests of hundreds of activists. More than a million people have taken to the streets at times over the past three weeks to vent their anger and frustration at Lam, posing the greatest popular challenge to Chinese leader Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. Local media reported that a 21-year-old Hong Kong student who fell to her death from an apartment building on Saturday had left behind a note opposing the extradition law. Threat and fear Hong Kong returned to Chinese rule on July 1, 1997, under a "one country, two systems" formula that allows freedoms not enjoyed in mainland China, including freedom of protest and a much-cherished independent judiciary. Opponents of the extradition bill see it as a threat to the rule of law and fear it would put them at the mercy of China`s justice system where human rights are not guaranteed. After promises that post-handover Hong Kong would enjoy autonomy, Beijing`s squeeze has fuelled resentment and in 2014 sparked pro-democracy protests that paralysed parts of the city for 79 days. The failure of those protests to wrestle concessions on democracy, coupled with prosecutions of at least 100 protesters, most of them young, had discouraged many activists from going back to the streets - until recent weeks. The turnout at the handover protest in 2018 was one of the lowest ever after Hong Kong`s opposition lost steam following the disqualification of pro-democracy legislators and the jailing of some of the most prominent activists.

Wonder of the Seas: World's largest cruise ship ready for maiden voyage - see pics

Denise Cilley, a resident of Chesterville in Maine (USA) was celebrating her daughter's 10th birthday. The year was 2015. The celebrations went well but in the middle of it all, someone noticed their family pet cat to be missing. They searched for the cat inside the house but no luck. A search was then launched in the area to locate the missing cat but it did not yield anyrthing. It was concluded that a predator had killed the cat.

Fast forward to year 2022, Denise got a voicemail that said the cat, named Ashes had been located in Florida. There is a distance of more than 1500 miles between Maine and Florida! It is still a mystery how the cat made the journey.

A veterinarian's office was able to determine the identity of the cat. The identity was determined with the help of a microchip which was implanted in the cat. Janet Williams a family friend of Denise Cilley in Florida is going to take temporary custody of the cat, as per the news given by WABI TV.

On Wednesday (February 9), Ashes was being taken to her original home. One of Janet Williams' friends was accompanying the cat during its journey home.

Denise Cilley was reportedly preparing to collect her pet cat at Portland international jetport.

Denise Cilley, a resident of Chesterville in Maine (USA) was celebrating her daughter's 10th birthday. The year was 2015. The celebrations went well but in the middle of it all, someone noticed their family pet cat to be missing.

Denise Cilley, a resident of Chesterville in Maine (USA) was celebrating her daughter's 10th birthday. The year was 2015. The celebrations went well but in the middle of it all, someone noticed their family pet cat to be missing. They searched for the cat inside the house but no luck. A search was then launched in the area to locate the missing cat but it did not yield anyrthing. It was concluded that a predator had killed the cat. Fast forward to year 2022, Denise got a voicemail that said the cat, named Ashes had been located in Florida. There is a distance of more than 1500 miles between Maine and Florida! It is still a mystery how the cat made the journey. A veterinarian's office was able to determine the identity of the cat. The identity was determined with the help of a microchip which was implanted in the cat. Janet Williams a family friend of Denise Cilley in Florida is going to take temporary custody of the cat, as per the news given by WABI TV. On Wednesday (February 9), Ashes was being taken to her original home. One of Janet Williams' friends was accompanying the cat during its journey home. Denise Cilley was reportedly preparing to collect her pet cat at Portland international jetport.

Lost cat found more than 1,500 miles away after 7 years

The Pillow Fighting Championship crowns it's first ever champions as the children's pastime turns into a professional combat sport

Pillow Fighting Championship crowned it's first ever champions in Florida

We know iguanas, the reptiles with a peculiar look that makes many run in the opposite direction. Iguanas are mostly harmless. They peacefully go about their business in trees. But what if one falls on you without notice. The iguana appears dead but its not dead.

Residents of Florida are somewhat in such a situation where iguanas are literally falling out of the trees. Unusual cold temperatures in the state are making them immobilised. But they are not dead.

"Iguanas are cold-blooded. They slow down or become immobile when temps drop into the 40s. They may fall from trees, but they are not dead," the service said on Twitter.

Zoologist Stacey Cohen, a reptile expert at Palm Beach Zoo in Florida, explained the phenomenon to ABC affiliate WPBF.

"Their bodies basically start to shut down where they lose their functions and so they are up in the trees on the branches sleeping and then because it gets so cold, they lose that ability to hang on and then they do fall out of trees a lot," Cohen said.

"Cold is a very, very life-threatening thing for them because they are from parts of Central and South America close to the equator where it always stays very warm," she said.

The problem of falling iguanas has become so big that weather service has had to issue a warning

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Jan 30: A cold morning...not as cold as our friends to the north dealing with a blizzard...but we have our own lizards to worry about. 
 
Did you really think with the coldest temperatures in over a decade we would not warn you about falling Iguanas? <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iguanas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iguanas</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/flwx?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#flwx</a> <a href="https://t.co/ornSpetd6a">pic.twitter.com/ornSpetd6a</a>
— NWS Miami (@NWSMiami) <a href="https://twitter.com/NWSMiami/status/1487719748779802625?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 30, 2022</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

A Florida resident reportedly woke to find her yard "littered with frozen iguanas" on Sunday (January 30, 2022).

The winter storm has pummeled eastern US and the cold weather is being felt in&nbsp;Florida.

We know iguanas, the reptiles with a peculiar look that makes many run in the opposite direction. Iguanas are mostly harmless. They peacefully go about their business in trees.

We know iguanas, the reptiles with a peculiar look that makes many run in the opposite direction. Iguanas are mostly harmless. They peacefully go about their business in trees. But what if one falls on you without notice. The iguana appears dead but its not dead. Residents of Florida are somewhat in such a situation where iguanas are literally falling out of the trees. Unusual cold temperatures in the state are making them immobilised. But they are not dead. "Iguanas are cold-blooded. They slow down or become immobile when temps drop into the 40s. They may fall from trees, but they are not dead," the service said on Twitter. Zoologist Stacey Cohen, a reptile expert at Palm Beach Zoo in Florida, explained the phenomenon to ABC affiliate WPBF. "Their bodies basically start to shut down where they lose their functions and so they are up in the trees on the branches sleeping and then because it gets so cold, they lose that ability to hang on and then they do fall out of trees a lot," Cohen said. "Cold is a very, very life-threatening thing for them because they are from parts of Central and South America close to the equator where it always stays very warm," she said. The problem of falling iguanas has become so big that weather service has had to issue a warning Jan 30: A cold morning...not as cold as our friends to the north dealing with a blizzard...but we have our own lizards to worry about. Did you really think with the coldest temperatures in over a decade we would not warn you about falling Iguanas? #Iguanas #flwx pic.twitter.com/ornSpetd6a — NWS Miami (@NWSMiami) January 30, 2022 × A Florida resident reportedly woke to find her yard "littered with frozen iguanas" on Sunday (January 30, 2022). The winter storm has pummeled eastern US and the cold weather is being felt in Florida.

Florida: It's 'raining' iguanas, and they are not dead 

Iguana’s were falling out of trees while frozen still in other places in West Palm Beach, Fla. due to the recent cold snap that has hit the eastern part of the U.S.

Frozen iguanas fall from trees as cold snap hits Florida

The US Coast Guard has launched a search for 39 people reported missing when a boat capsized off the coast of Florida in a "suspected human smuggling venture."

The Coast Guard in Miami said Tuesday it received a report "from a good Samaritan" who rescued a man "clinging to a capsized vessel approximately 45 miles east of Fort Pierce Inlet."

The survivor said the boat left Bimini in the Bahamas on Saturday night and had encountered rough weather before it capsized.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-obsession-with-virginity-uk-government-moves-to-criminalise-virginity-repair-surgery-tests-447733" hreflang="en">The obsession with virginity: UK government moves to criminalise 'virginity repair' surgery, tests</a>

"According to the survivor, no one was wearing a life jacket," the statement said.

"Coast Guard air and surface asset crews are actively searching for people in the water. This is a suspected human smuggling venture," said the statement posted on Twitter.&nbsp;

It added later that air and surface crews would "continue to search throughout the night" for the missing people.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/USCG?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USCG</a> rescue crews are currently searching for 39 people after their boat reportedly capsized on Saturday night approximately 45 miles east of Fort Pierce Inlet. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SAR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SAR</a> 
 
More updates to follow. <a href="https://t.co/iGCJ7KRjXY">pic.twitter.com/iGCJ7KRjXY</a>
— USCGSoutheast (@USCGSoutheast) <a href="https://twitter.com/USCGSoutheast/status/1486044269773307908?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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An image released by the Coast Guard showed the capsized vessel in the water with a man straddling the hull.&nbsp;

The survivor was taken to a hospital to be treated for dehydration and sun exposure, the Coast Guard said.

Human smugglers are known to use the Bahamas -- a group of islands near the Florida coast -- as a jumping-off point for transporting people, many from other Caribbean countries such as Haiti, to the United States.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/please-pray-passengers-protest-in-istanbul-airport-amid-heavy-snowfall-447736" hreflang="en">'Please pray': Passengers protest in Istanbul airport amid heavy snowfall</a>

According to the International Organization for Migration, around 5,000 Haitian migrants work legally in the Bahamas, but 20,000 to 50,000 of their compatriots are in the country illegally.

Bimini, the westernmost district of the Bahamas and its closest point to the mainland, is approximately 130 miles (217 kilometres) from Fort Pierce Inlet.

On Friday, 32 people were rescued after a boat capsized about five miles west of Bimini in another suspected human smuggling attempt, according to the US Coast Guard and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force.&nbsp;

The US Coast Guard tweeted that its vessels patrol the waters around Haiti, Puerto Rico and the Bahamas "to ensure the safety of life at sea."&nbsp;

"Navigating the seas in overloaded and less than seaworthy vessels is extremely dangerous and can result in loss of life," it warned.

Spikes in the number of people trying to reach the United States from the Caribbean have accompanied upheavals in the region.&nbsp;

US authorities noted an increase in migration from Cuba by the sea in recent months. In July, the country saw scores of demonstrations triggered by economic strife, medical and food shortages and anger at the government.

The US Coast Guard has launched a search for 39 people reported missing when a boat capsized off the coast of Florida in a "suspected human smuggling venture." The Coast Guard in Miami said Tuesday it received a report "from a good Samaritan" who rescued a man "clinging to a capsized vessel approximately 45 miles east of Fort Pierce Inlet.

The US Coast Guard has launched a search for 39 people reported missing when a boat capsized off the coast of Florida in a "suspected human smuggling venture." The Coast Guard in Miami said Tuesday it received a report "from a good Samaritan" who rescued a man "clinging to a capsized vessel approximately 45 miles east of Fort Pierce Inlet." The survivor said the boat left Bimini in the Bahamas on Saturday night and had encountered rough weather before it capsized. Also read | The obsession with virginity: UK government moves to criminalise 'virginity repair' surgery, tests "According to the survivor, no one was wearing a life jacket," the statement said. "Coast Guard air and surface asset crews are actively searching for people in the water. This is a suspected human smuggling venture," said the statement posted on Twitter. It added later that air and surface crews would "continue to search throughout the night" for the missing people. #BREAKING @USCG rescue crews are currently searching for 39 people after their boat reportedly capsized on Saturday night approximately 45 miles east of Fort Pierce Inlet. #SAR More updates to follow. pic.twitter.com/iGCJ7KRjXY — USCGSoutheast (@USCGSoutheast) January 25, 2022 × An image released by the Coast Guard showed the capsized vessel in the water with a man straddling the hull. The survivor was taken to a hospital to be treated for dehydration and sun exposure, the Coast Guard said. Human smugglers are known to use the Bahamas -- a group of islands near the Florida coast -- as a jumping-off point for transporting people, many from other Caribbean countries such as Haiti, to the United States. Also read | 'Please pray': Passengers protest in Istanbul airport amid heavy snowfall According to the International Organization for Migration, around 5,000 Haitian migrants work legally in the Bahamas, but 20,000 to 50,000 of their compatriots are in the country illegally. Bimini, the westernmost district of the Bahamas and its closest point to the mainland, is approximately 130 miles (217 kilometres) from Fort Pierce Inlet. On Friday, 32 people were rescued after a boat capsized about five miles west of Bimini in another suspected human smuggling attempt, according to the US Coast Guard and the Royal Bahamas Defence Force. The US Coast Guard tweeted that its vessels patrol the waters around Haiti, Puerto Rico and the Bahamas "to ensure the safety of life at sea." "Navigating the seas in overloaded and less than seaworthy vessels is extremely dangerous and can result in loss of life," it warned. Spikes in the number of people trying to reach the United States from the Caribbean have accompanied upheavals in the region. US authorities noted an increase in migration from Cuba by the sea in recent months. In July, the country saw scores of demonstrations triggered by economic strife, medical and food shortages and anger at the government.

39 missing after boat capsizes off Florida, rescue underway: US Coast Guard

In a latest incident, a beachgoer garnered appreciation from police after he found and handed over cocaine worth $1 million. He found cocaine floating at sea off the Florida Keys.&nbsp;

Chief Patrol Agent Thomas G Martin took to his official Twitter handle and shared images of packaged cocaine. "Over the weekend, a Good Samaritan discovered over 1 million dollars in cocaine floating at sea near the Florida Keys. The package contained nearly 69 lbs," he wrote.&nbsp;

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Over the weekend, a Good Samaritan discovered over 1 million dollars in cocaine floating at sea near the Florida Keys. The package contained nearly 69 lbs. of cocaine. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BorderPatrol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BorderPatrol</a> agents with support from <a href="https://twitter.com/USCGSoutheast?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@USCGSoutheast</a> recovered the drugs. 
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/breakingnews?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#breakingnews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/breaking?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#breaking</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/monday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#monday</a> <a href="https://t.co/cC7EKa9lDx">pic.twitter.com/cC7EKa9lDx</a>
— Chief Patrol Agent Thomas G. Martin (@USBPChiefMIP) <a href="https://twitter.com/USBPChiefMIP/status/1467895942569414662?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Several officials, along with the US Coast Guard’s Southeast Division helped the border agents to recover the shipment.&nbsp; 
With this, the chief also shared an image of packages cocaine.&nbsp;

Various people took to the comment section and hared hilarious comments with the netizens. "Me calling the authorities: yeah I’m out in the ocean and I think I found 70, no 69, yeah 69lbs of cocaine," wrote a Twitter user. Another person wrote, "Crazy part is whoever bought 25 bricks got 5 1/2 extra bricks for free and it got intercepted smh."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/off-california-coast-in-us-paddleboarders-witness-massive-sunfish-435664">Also read |&nbsp;Off California coast in US, paddleboarders witness massive sunfish</a>

This is not the first time that such an incident has taken place. Earlier in June, a shipment of cocaine worth $44 million was found in an onion ring cargo in Coquelles, France, said officials at the UK border.&nbsp;

According to the country's National Crime Agency, the 922-pound shipment was spotted by Border Force officers after halting a lorry, which was headed to the UK. &nbsp;

NCA's branch commander Mark Howes said, "This was a really significant amount of drugs taken out of circulation. The seizure will deprive the organised crime group responsible for them of profit, which would have fuelled more offending.”&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a latest incident, a beachgoer garnered appreciation from police after he found and handed over cocaine worth $1 million. He found cocaine floating at sea off the Florida Keys.

In a latest incident, a beachgoer garnered appreciation from police after he found and handed over cocaine worth $1 million. He found cocaine floating at sea off the Florida Keys. Chief Patrol Agent Thomas G Martin took to his official Twitter handle and shared images of packaged cocaine. "Over the weekend, a Good Samaritan discovered over 1 million dollars in cocaine floating at sea near the Florida Keys. The package contained nearly 69 lbs," he wrote. Over the weekend, a Good Samaritan discovered over 1 million dollars in cocaine floating at sea near the Florida Keys. The package contained nearly 69 lbs. of cocaine. #BorderPatrol agents with support from @USCGSoutheast recovered the drugs. #breakingnews #breaking #monday pic.twitter.com/cC7EKa9lDx — Chief Patrol Agent Thomas G. Martin (@USBPChiefMIP) December 6, 2021 × Several officials, along with the US Coast Guard’s Southeast Division helped the border agents to recover the shipment. With this, the chief also shared an image of packages cocaine. Various people took to the comment section and hared hilarious comments with the netizens. "Me calling the authorities: yeah I’m out in the ocean and I think I found 70, no 69, yeah 69lbs of cocaine," wrote a Twitter user. Another person wrote, "Crazy part is whoever bought 25 bricks got 5 1/2 extra bricks for free and it got intercepted smh." Also read | Off California coast in US, paddleboarders witness massive sunfish This is not the first time that such an incident has taken place. Earlier in June, a shipment of cocaine worth $44 million was found in an onion ring cargo in Coquelles, France, said officials at the UK border. According to the country's National Crime Agency, the 922-pound shipment was spotted by Border Force officers after halting a lorry, which was headed to the UK. NCA's branch commander Mark Howes said, "This was a really significant amount of drugs taken out of circulation. The seizure will deprive the organised crime group responsible for them of profit, which would have fuelled more offending.” (With inputs from agencies)

Beachgoer finds cocaine worth $1 million USD floating at sea off Florida Keys

A 19-year-old man from Florida was arrested for threatening to release sexually explicit photos of a politician online in exchange for cash.

Jeremy Kamperveen, a plantation worker, was arrested last month and charged with extortion and cyberstalking Florida state senator Lauren Book from the Democratic party.

Kamperveen also allegedly texted sexually explicit photos and asked for $5,000 in gift cards in exchange for destroying the photos.

At that time, the identity of the victim wasn’t revealed, until Book released a statement on Thursday saying that she was the one who received the threatening messages.

“Three weeks ago, I became the victim of ongoing sexual harassment and extortion,” Book said.

“I immediately notified law enforcement and began working closely with them to track those responsible for sending threatening and disturbing images and messages to my phone, including distorted, fake and stolen images created in an effort to intimidate, threaten, and extort me.”

Book had complained to the police on November 12, claiming a cyberstalker had sent her two photos of her exposed breasts that she "had taken of herself and only shared with a close friend.”

She is chair of the Senate Democratic Caucus and a longtime advocate for victims of child abuse and sexual abuse. She leads a group called Lauren’s Kids.

According to police, Kamperveen, who lives in Book’s district and is a registered Democrat, does not have a criminal record.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 19-year-old man from Florida was arrested for threatening to release sexually explicit photos of a politician online in exchange for cash. Jeremy Kamperveen, a plantation worker, was arrested last month and charged with extortion and cyberstalking Florida state senator Lauren Book from the Democratic party.

A 19-year-old man from Florida was arrested for threatening to release sexually explicit photos of a politician online in exchange for cash. Jeremy Kamperveen, a plantation worker, was arrested last month and charged with extortion and cyberstalking Florida state senator Lauren Book from the Democratic party. Kamperveen also allegedly texted sexually explicit photos and asked for $5,000 in gift cards in exchange for destroying the photos. At that time, the identity of the victim wasn’t revealed, until Book released a statement on Thursday saying that she was the one who received the threatening messages. “Three weeks ago, I became the victim of ongoing sexual harassment and extortion,” Book said. “I immediately notified law enforcement and began working closely with them to track those responsible for sending threatening and disturbing images and messages to my phone, including distorted, fake and stolen images created in an effort to intimidate, threaten, and extort me.” Book had complained to the police on November 12, claiming a cyberstalker had sent her two photos of her exposed breasts that she "had taken of herself and only shared with a close friend.” She is chair of the Senate Democratic Caucus and a longtime advocate for victims of child abuse and sexual abuse. She leads a group called Lauren’s Kids. According to police, Kamperveen, who lives in Book’s district and is a registered Democrat, does not have a criminal record. (With inputs from agencies)

19-year-old man arrested for threatening to release sexually explicit photos of Florida state senator

In a bizarre claim, a man has said that he was seduced by a dolphin when he was working at a water park in Florida and that used to have regular sexual intercourse with the mammal.

63-year-old Malcolm Brenner claimed he had a relationship with the playful cetacean while&nbsp;working at a theme park in Sarasota in the 1970s. The ‘affair’ is said to have lasted around 6 months.

Brenner, a college student at the time, was given unrestricted access to Dolly's pool when he was tasked with photographing her.

He told The Mirror that it was the dolphin who “came on” to him while they were swimming.

He added that he initially discouraged the “attempts” made by the dolphin, who was named Dolly, but eventually grew fond of her.

He said they managed to "evade" a male dolphin living in her enclosure to snatch some alone time when the park closed.

“There's something quite transcendental about making love with a dolphin," adding: "I called it a relationship because that's what it was.,” Brenner said.

He then claimed that the dolphin “committed suicide” nine months after it was relocated to another amusement park.

Brenner said he fell into a five-year depression following Dolly's death.

Notably, this is not the first sexual encounter Brenner had with an animal. He admitted that he tried to have intercourse with his family dog as a teenager.

In 2010, Brenner's book Wet Goddess, which is thought to be a largely autobiographical account of his tryst with Dolly, was released.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a bizarre claim, a man has said that he was seduced by a dolphin when he was working at a water park in Florida and that used to have regular sexual intercourse with the mammal.

In a bizarre claim, a man has said that he was seduced by a dolphin when he was working at a water park in Florida and that used to have regular sexual intercourse with the mammal. 63-year-old Malcolm Brenner claimed he had a relationship with the playful cetacean while working at a theme park in Sarasota in the 1970s. The ‘affair’ is said to have lasted around 6 months. Brenner, a college student at the time, was given unrestricted access to Dolly's pool when he was tasked with photographing her. He told The Mirror that it was the dolphin who “came on” to him while they were swimming. He added that he initially discouraged the “attempts” made by the dolphin, who was named Dolly, but eventually grew fond of her. He said they managed to "evade" a male dolphin living in her enclosure to snatch some alone time when the park closed. “There's something quite transcendental about making love with a dolphin," adding: "I called it a relationship because that's what it was.,” Brenner said. He then claimed that the dolphin “committed suicide” nine months after it was relocated to another amusement park. Brenner said he fell into a five-year depression following Dolly's death. Notably, this is not the first sexual encounter Brenner had with an animal. He admitted that he tried to have intercourse with his family dog as a teenager. In 2010, Brenner's book Wet Goddess, which is thought to be a largely autobiographical account of his tryst with Dolly, was released. (With inputs from agencies)

US: 63-year-old man claims he had 6-month 'affair' with dolphin

Four astronauts from the Crew-2 mission, which has been in orbit since spring, splashed down off the coast of Pensacola in the Gulf of Mexico on Monday night.&nbsp;

Following a dramatic re-entry fall through Earth's atmosphere, the Dragon vehicle, named Endeavour, parachuted into the sea as planned at around 10:30 p.m. EST on Monday (0330 GMT Tuesday).

The astronauts had to wear adult diapers on their return journey, after a leak was discovered in the SpaceX-made capsule's toilet.

The spacecraft started its eight-hour return journey earlier in the day with a 90-minute fly-around of the space station, during which the crew took a series of survey images of the orbiting outpost, which was circling the globe at a height of 250 miles (400 kilometres).&nbsp;

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And… splashdown! 🌊 
 
The <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpaceX</a> Crew Dragon Endeavour has splashed down off the coast of Florida at 10:33pm ET (03:33 UTC), returning the Crew-2 astronauts back to Earth after more than six months aboard the <a href="https://twitter.com/Space_Station?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Space_Station</a>: <a href="https://t.co/yZkjL27Cd8">pic.twitter.com/yZkjL27Cd8</a>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1457914787409666051?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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NASA astronauts Shane Kimbrough and Megan McArthur, as well as Japanese astronaut Akihiko Hoshide and French astronaut Thomas Pesquet, are now waiting to be picked up.

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LIVE NOW: Crew-2 is almost home! 
 
The <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpaceX</a> Crew Dragon Endeavour is preparing to return to Earth off the coast of Florida with four astronauts aboard. Splashdown is targeted for 10:33pm ET (03:33 UTC). <a href="https://t.co/YHlXODQZhN">https://t.co/YHlXODQZhN</a>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1457894983462162437?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Coast Guard is assisting, and a 10-mile zone has been established to keep vessels away from the splashdown zone.

The removal of their SpaceX spacecraft from the International Space Station has also cleared the way for the launch of its four successors as soon as Wednesday night.

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Boats with spotlights are seen on the Gulf of Mexico as they approach the <a href="https://twitter.com/SpaceX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpaceX</a> Crew Dragon Endeavour and prepare to recover the Crew-2 astronauts. <a href="https://t.co/GTVLCfpasH">pic.twitter.com/GTVLCfpasH</a>
— NASA (@NASA) <a href="https://twitter.com/NASA/status/1457917214175203328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The newbies were supposed to launch first, but NASA changed the sequence due to severe weather and an unnamed medical problem of one of the astronauts.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Four astronauts from the Crew-2 mission, which has been in orbit since spring, splashed down off the coast of Pensacola in the Gulf of Mexico on Monday night. Following a dramatic re-entry fall through Earth's atmosphere, the Dragon vehicle, named Endeavour, parachuted into the sea as planned at around 10:30 p.

Four astronauts from the Crew-2 mission, which has been in orbit since spring, splashed down off the coast of Pensacola in the Gulf of Mexico on Monday night. Following a dramatic re-entry fall through Earth's atmosphere, the Dragon vehicle, named Endeavour, parachuted into the sea as planned at around 10:30 p.m. EST on Monday (0330 GMT Tuesday). The astronauts had to wear adult diapers on their return journey, after a leak was discovered in the SpaceX-made capsule's toilet. The spacecraft started its eight-hour return journey earlier in the day with a 90-minute fly-around of the space station, during which the crew took a series of survey images of the orbiting outpost, which was circling the globe at a height of 250 miles (400 kilometres). And… splashdown! 🌊 The @SpaceX Crew Dragon Endeavour has splashed down off the coast of Florida at 10:33pm ET (03:33 UTC), returning the Crew-2 astronauts back to Earth after more than six months aboard the @Space_Station: pic.twitter.com/yZkjL27Cd8 — NASA (@NASA) November 9, 2021 × NASA astronauts Shane Kimbrough and Megan McArthur, as well as Japanese astronaut Akihiko Hoshide and French astronaut Thomas Pesquet, are now waiting to be picked up. LIVE NOW: Crew-2 is almost home! The @SpaceX Crew Dragon Endeavour is preparing to return to Earth off the coast of Florida with four astronauts aboard. Splashdown is targeted for 10:33pm ET (03:33 UTC). https://t.co/YHlXODQZhN — NASA (@NASA) November 9, 2021 × The Coast Guard is assisting, and a 10-mile zone has been established to keep vessels away from the splashdown zone. The removal of their SpaceX spacecraft from the International Space Station has also cleared the way for the launch of its four successors as soon as Wednesday night. Boats with spotlights are seen on the Gulf of Mexico as they approach the @SpaceX Crew Dragon Endeavour and prepare to recover the Crew-2 astronauts. pic.twitter.com/GTVLCfpasH — NASA (@NASA) November 9, 2021 × The newbies were supposed to launch first, but NASA changed the sequence due to severe weather and an unnamed medical problem of one of the astronauts. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | SpaceX capsule with four ISS astronauts, wearing adult diapers, splashes down off Florida

This year, Florida has been dealing with a massive die-off of manatees, with 959 documented deaths as of Oct. 1. This has already been the deadliest year on record, and according to state estimates, further colder weather may cause another wave of deaths among the estimated 7,500 to 10,200 manatees along both Florida coasts.

Amid food scarcity, Florida manatees dying in record numbers

When Florida gave restaurants the green light to reopen indoor dining earlier this year, restaurateurs like Carlos Gazitua were euphoric. They hoped it would resuscitate their businesses, many of which were on life-support after the shutdown. But they quickly learned it was tough to coax workers back.

“It was a crisis,"&nbsp;said Gazitua, owner and CEO of the Sergio’s Restaurant chain in Florida. “We couldn’t find anyone.” Even a major job fair, drawing dozens of restaurant and hotel owners offering more than 1,000 jobs in May, was disastrous.

“We had 40 employers and only four people showed up!” he said. “It was bizarre — all the employers thought we were on ‘Candid Camera’.”

So, Gazitua turned to robotics, bringing in the Servi robot in July at one of his restaurants. Servi uses cameras and laser sensors to carry plates of food from the kitchen to tables in the dining room, where the waiter then transfers the plates to the customer’s table. The robot costs $999 a month, including installation and support.

Servi saved wait staff and bussers from having to run back and forth to the kitchen and gave overworked servers more time to schmooze with customers and serve more tables, which led to higher tips.

“In the first two hours, the servers were amazed!” he said, adding that Servis have now been added to the company’s five other full-service restaurants.

Gazitua is among a growing number of restaurant and hotel owners who are turning to robotics during this labour shortage. Robots don’t call in sick, don’t request raises and do jobs, like frying and cleaning, that workers don’t like.

Indeed, many robotics companies, like Miso Robotics, Bear Robotics, Peanut Robotics, Knightscope, SoftBank Robotics and Makr Shakr, say they have seen huge spikes in inquiries for their robots since the pandemic hit.

Miso is getting 150 inquiries a week for its Flippy robot, said Mike Bell, CEO of Miso. Flippy uses artificial intelligence, sensors, computer vision and robotic arms to fry fast food, like French fries and chicken wings. The robot, which costs about $3,000 per month, including maintenance, identifies the food, senses the oil temperature, and monitors the cook time.

The CDC estimates 48 million people get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die each year from foodborne illnesses. Using robots like Flippy improves a kitchen’s cooking accuracy and consistency, reducing human error that could lead to food contamination issues, Bell said.

White Castle started testing Flippy at its Merrillville, Indiana, restaurant in late 2020.

“This is the toughest labour market we’ve encountered since World War II,” said Jamie Richardson, vice president of marketing at White Castle, founded in 1921. The test went so well that it plans to add Flippy to 10 more locations. Michael J. Hicks, professor of economics and director of the Center for Business and Economic Research at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, echoed Richardson’s view of the job situation.

“The leisure and hospitality industry saw a 50% drop in employment in 2020, a dip of 8.3 million workers,” he said. “That is far and away the worst shock to the industry on record, dating back to the Great Depression.”

Bear Robotics, which makes the Servi robot, has seen demand skyrocket, said Juan Higueros, co-founder and chief operating officer. Aside from Sergio’s restaurants, he has fielded inquiries from casinos, restaurant chains, arenas and even senior living residences, desperate to assist overworked staff.

“Burnout is becoming a very big problem for restaurant staff,” he said.

Peanut Robotics, a startup, makes a robot that cleans and sanitizes restrooms, and SoftBank Robotics makes Whiz, which vacuums floors.

Although Peanut is still in the prototype phase, this hasn’t stopped hotel chains, offices and restaurants from requesting the robot. “We’re not actively marketing, but people keep finding us,” said Joe Augenbraun, the company’s CEO. “I have demand for hundreds of them right now.”

Knightscope makes robots that use artificial intelligence, video and two-way audio to patrol outdoor or indoor areas. It uses thermal imaging, license plate recognition and other software. There is also an alert button on the robot that allows the caller to speak directly to someone. Demand has been particularly high lately from casinos and office buildings, said Stacy Stephens, co-founder and chief client officer at Knightscope.

Makr Shakr, based in Italy, makes robotic bartenders, whose arms can measure, mix, shake, pour and even garnish cocktails. Over the past three months, inquiries have jumped 50% from pre-pandemic levels, said Carlo Ratti, a founding partner and a professor the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

The Tipsy Robot, a bar that opened in Las Vegas in 2017, uses Makr Shakr’s robotic arms. Its general manager, Victor Reza Valanejad, said the robot was a godsend when COVID hit. “I was getting about 120 applications a day in 2019 for bartenders,” he said. But in April 2021, the same ad took three weeks to get only 14 applications. “And of those 14, no one showed up for the interviews,” he said.

While robots don’t call in sick or ask for raises, they can break down. As a result, a restaurant is at the mercy of the robotics company to respond quickly. Sometimes, a software glitch can be fixed remotely, but a hardware issue usually requires an on-site repair. Most of the companies said they could make repairs within 24 hours, but not always.

Robots have had some highly publicized missteps.

In 2019, a Knightscope 5 robot made headlines when a fight broke out in Huntington Park, California, where the robot was patrolling. When a woman ran to the robot for assistance and pushed its emergency alert button, the robot repeatedly barked “Get out of the way” and proceeded to roll past her — and the ongoing fight — while playing a little tune. A bystander ended up calling 911.

Stephens blamed the mishap on a robot that had been deployed before its software had been fully installed and its line to 911 had been hooked up. Since then, he said, the city has credited the robot for lowering crime and has extended its contract for two more years.

SoftBank Robotics’s Pepper, which is touted as a robot that can read people’s emotions, remember faces and interact with people, has probably received the most negative publicity.

A Scottish grocery store, Margiotta, hired the robot to give directions to customers looking for items in the store, but fired Pepper when it kept giving vague answers, like “It’s in the alcohol section” when asked where to find beer.

Then there was Pepper’s stint at a Japanese nursing home, where it was hired to lead singalongs and hold exercise classes for seniors. But it kept malfunctioning.

Its biggest blemish came when a 2018 Swedish university research report said Pepper’s technology had serious security flaws. It said a breach would allow a hacker to spy on people through Pepper’s cameras and microphones and even take control of Pepper’s arms. SoftBank said the security flaw has since been patched.

“Most Peppers have now been fired,” said Dina Marie Zemke, associate professor at Ball State University and author of a 2020 report on robotics. “Either you loved them or you were completely creeped out by them.”

Pepper wasn’t cheap, retailing for $20,000 to $25,000.

SoftBank recently stopped production of Pepper, sold off its majority stake in Boston Dynamics, and laid off about half of its 330-member team in France. But Kass Dawson, SoftBank Robotics’ vice president of brand strategy, insists Pepper’s production is only temporarily halted and that its robotics division remains a company priority.

Industry experts believe the labour shortages stemming from the pandemic accelerated the acceptance of robots in the workplace.

“We’ve all gotten more comfortable with dealing with robots — that’s one of the legacies of the pandemic,” said Craig Le Clair, vice president and principal analyst at Forrester. “We’re able to trade off the creepiness of robots with the improved help characteristics.”

When Florida gave restaurants the green light to reopen indoor dining earlier this year, restaurateurs like Carlos Gazitua were euphoric. They hoped it would resuscitate their businesses, many of which were on life-support after the shutdown.

When Florida gave restaurants the green light to reopen indoor dining earlier this year, restaurateurs like Carlos Gazitua were euphoric. They hoped it would resuscitate their businesses, many of which were on life-support after the shutdown. But they quickly learned it was tough to coax workers back. “It was a crisis," said Gazitua, owner and CEO of the Sergio’s Restaurant chain in Florida. “We couldn’t find anyone.” Even a major job fair, drawing dozens of restaurant and hotel owners offering more than 1,000 jobs in May, was disastrous. “We had 40 employers and only four people showed up!” he said. “It was bizarre — all the employers thought we were on ‘Candid Camera’.” So, Gazitua turned to robotics, bringing in the Servi robot in July at one of his restaurants. Servi uses cameras and laser sensors to carry plates of food from the kitchen to tables in the dining room, where the waiter then transfers the plates to the customer’s table. The robot costs $999 a month, including installation and support. Servi saved wait staff and bussers from having to run back and forth to the kitchen and gave overworked servers more time to schmooze with customers and serve more tables, which led to higher tips. “In the first two hours, the servers were amazed!” he said, adding that Servis have now been added to the company’s five other full-service restaurants. Gazitua is among a growing number of restaurant and hotel owners who are turning to robotics during this labour shortage. Robots don’t call in sick, don’t request raises and do jobs, like frying and cleaning, that workers don’t like. Indeed, many robotics companies, like Miso Robotics, Bear Robotics, Peanut Robotics, Knightscope, SoftBank Robotics and Makr Shakr, say they have seen huge spikes in inquiries for their robots since the pandemic hit. Miso is getting 150 inquiries a week for its Flippy robot, said Mike Bell, CEO of Miso. Flippy uses artificial intelligence, sensors, computer vision and robotic arms to fry fast food, like French fries and chicken wings. The robot, which costs about $3,000 per month, including maintenance, identifies the food, senses the oil temperature, and monitors the cook time. The CDC estimates 48 million people get sick, 128,000 are hospitalized, and 3,000 die each year from foodborne illnesses. Using robots like Flippy improves a kitchen’s cooking accuracy and consistency, reducing human error that could lead to food contamination issues, Bell said. White Castle started testing Flippy at its Merrillville, Indiana, restaurant in late 2020. “This is the toughest labour market we’ve encountered since World War II,” said Jamie Richardson, vice president of marketing at White Castle, founded in 1921. The test went so well that it plans to add Flippy to 10 more locations. Michael J. Hicks, professor of economics and director of the Center for Business and Economic Research at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, echoed Richardson’s view of the job situation. “The leisure and hospitality industry saw a 50% drop in employment in 2020, a dip of 8.3 million workers,” he said. “That is far and away the worst shock to the industry on record, dating back to the Great Depression.” Bear Robotics, which makes the Servi robot, has seen demand skyrocket, said Juan Higueros, co-founder and chief operating officer. Aside from Sergio’s restaurants, he has fielded inquiries from casinos, restaurant chains, arenas and even senior living residences, desperate to assist overworked staff. “Burnout is becoming a very big problem for restaurant staff,” he said. Peanut Robotics, a startup, makes a robot that cleans and sanitizes restrooms, and SoftBank Robotics makes Whiz, which vacuums floors. Although Peanut is still in the prototype phase, this hasn’t stopped hotel chains, offices and restaurants from requesting the robot. “We’re not actively marketing, but people keep finding us,” said Joe Augenbraun, the company’s CEO. “I have demand for hundreds of them right now.” Knightscope makes robots that use artificial intelligence, video and two-way audio to patrol outdoor or indoor areas. It uses thermal imaging, license plate recognition and other software. There is also an alert button on the robot that allows the caller to speak directly to someone. Demand has been particularly high lately from casinos and office buildings, said Stacy Stephens, co-founder and chief client officer at Knightscope. Makr Shakr, based in Italy, makes robotic bartenders, whose arms can measure, mix, shake, pour and even garnish cocktails. Over the past three months, inquiries have jumped 50% from pre-pandemic levels, said Carlo Ratti, a founding partner and a professor the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The Tipsy Robot, a bar that opened in Las Vegas in 2017, uses Makr Shakr’s robotic arms. Its general manager, Victor Reza Valanejad, said the robot was a godsend when COVID hit. “I was getting about 120 applications a day in 2019 for bartenders,” he said. But in April 2021, the same ad took three weeks to get only 14 applications. “And of those 14, no one showed up for the interviews,” he said. While robots don’t call in sick or ask for raises, they can break down. As a result, a restaurant is at the mercy of the robotics company to respond quickly. Sometimes, a software glitch can be fixed remotely, but a hardware issue usually requires an on-site repair. Most of the companies said they could make repairs within 24 hours, but not always. Robots have had some highly publicized missteps. In 2019, a Knightscope 5 robot made headlines when a fight broke out in Huntington Park, California, where the robot was patrolling. When a woman ran to the robot for assistance and pushed its emergency alert button, the robot repeatedly barked “Get out of the way” and proceeded to roll past her — and the ongoing fight — while playing a little tune. A bystander ended up calling 911. Stephens blamed the mishap on a robot that had been deployed before its software had been fully installed and its line to 911 had been hooked up. Since then, he said, the city has credited the robot for lowering crime and has extended its contract for two more years. SoftBank Robotics’s Pepper, which is touted as a robot that can read people’s emotions, remember faces and interact with people, has probably received the most negative publicity. A Scottish grocery store, Margiotta, hired the robot to give directions to customers looking for items in the store, but fired Pepper when it kept giving vague answers, like “It’s in the alcohol section” when asked where to find beer. Then there was Pepper’s stint at a Japanese nursing home, where it was hired to lead singalongs and hold exercise classes for seniors. But it kept malfunctioning. Its biggest blemish came when a 2018 Swedish university research report said Pepper’s technology had serious security flaws. It said a breach would allow a hacker to spy on people through Pepper’s cameras and microphones and even take control of Pepper’s arms. SoftBank said the security flaw has since been patched. “Most Peppers have now been fired,” said Dina Marie Zemke, associate professor at Ball State University and author of a 2020 report on robotics. “Either you loved them or you were completely creeped out by them.” Pepper wasn’t cheap, retailing for $20,000 to $25,000. SoftBank recently stopped production of Pepper, sold off its majority stake in Boston Dynamics, and laid off about half of its 330-member team in France. But Kass Dawson, SoftBank Robotics’ vice president of brand strategy, insists Pepper’s production is only temporarily halted and that its robotics division remains a company priority. Industry experts believe the labour shortages stemming from the pandemic accelerated the acceptance of robots in the workplace. “We’ve all gotten more comfortable with dealing with robots — that’s one of the legacies of the pandemic,” said Craig Le Clair, vice president and principal analyst at Forrester. “We’re able to trade off the creepiness of robots with the improved help characteristics.”

Desperate for workers, restaurants turn to robots

What do you do when an alligator tries to enter your house? Run away, or call the authorities? A Florida man decided to wheel his garbage bin out!<o:p></o:p>

A US army veteran from Florida was alarmed when his daughter told him that an alligator had just hissed at her. Although he was alarmed, Eugene Bozzi assumed it might be a baby alligator.<o:p></o:p>

However, when he stepped outdoors he was shocked to see a fully-grown 1.8 metres long alligator in his house yard.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-photo-of-idlis-served-on-ice-cream-stick-has-got-the-internet-divided-417267">Photo of idlis served on ice-cream stick has got the internet divided</a></o:p>

"I said, 'No, I'm removing it because he's probably hungry," the 26-year-old man told&nbsp;<a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2021/09/29/florida-man-catches-alligator-trash-can/5920943001/">USA Today</a>. "The only thing that came to my mind was to protect my kids and the other children outside."<o:p></o:p>

Bozzi, dressed in white t-shirt, black shorts, a solid black durag on head and socks and flip flops in his feet decided to take the help of a trash can to catch the alligator.

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This Florida Man has won the internet for the Month of September <a href="https://t.co/PB9dIMDkOS">pic.twitter.com/PB9dIMDkOS</a>
— KP (@kerethp) <a href="https://twitter.com/kerethp/status/1443187717790122002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"I used the front like a hippo mouth," he said. "I saw&nbsp;that he was&nbsp;more timid and he was backing down, so that's why I knew I had the advantage."<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

In the video, Bozzi can be seen approaching the alligator slowly with an open trash container. As he slowly advances towards the alligator, it keeps slowly backing away. The man even told his supporters to 'let me know when the head goes inside'.<o:p></o:p>

As soon as the alligator’s head went inside, Bozzi started closing the lid which made the reptile freak out and rush inside the container as a result of shock. He then quickly and carefully straightened the trash can due to which the alligator, surprisingly, somehow fit completely inside the closed container.<o:p></o:p>

He then quickly wheeled out the trash can to an isolated area in the greens and opened the lid to let the alligator escape back to the wild.<o:p></o:p>

"I feel like I was just&nbsp;doing what I was supposed to do at the time to make me feel more comfortable," he said.<o:p></o:p>

What do you do when an alligator tries to enter your house? Run away, or call the authorities? A Florida man decided to wheel his garbage bin out! A US army veteran from Florida was alarmed when his daughter told him that an alligator had just hissed at her.

What do you do when an alligator tries to enter your house? Run away, or call the authorities? A Florida man decided to wheel his garbage bin out! A US army veteran from Florida was alarmed when his daughter told him that an alligator had just hissed at her. Although he was alarmed, Eugene Bozzi assumed it might be a baby alligator. However, when he stepped outdoors he was shocked to see a fully-grown 1.8 metres long alligator in his house yard. Also read | Photo of idlis served on ice-cream stick has got the internet divided "I said, 'No, I'm removing it because he's probably hungry," the 26-year-old man told USA Today. "The only thing that came to my mind was to protect my kids and the other children outside." Bozzi, dressed in white t-shirt, black shorts, a solid black durag on head and socks and flip flops in his feet decided to take the help of a trash can to catch the alligator. This Florida Man has won the internet for the Month of September pic.twitter.com/PB9dIMDkOS — KP (@kerethp) September 29, 2021 × "I used the front like a hippo mouth," he said. "I saw that he was more timid and he was backing down, so that's why I knew I had the advantage." In the video, Bozzi can be seen approaching the alligator slowly with an open trash container. As he slowly advances towards the alligator, it keeps slowly backing away. The man even told his supporters to 'let me know when the head goes inside'. As soon as the alligator’s head went inside, Bozzi started closing the lid which made the reptile freak out and rush inside the container as a result of shock. He then quickly and carefully straightened the trash can due to which the alligator, surprisingly, somehow fit completely inside the closed container. He then quickly wheeled out the trash can to an isolated area in the greens and opened the lid to let the alligator escape back to the wild. "I feel like I was just doing what I was supposed to do at the time to make me feel more comfortable," he said.

Trash it! Florida man gets rid of an alligator in unique way

At a laboratory in central&nbsp;Florida, biologist Aaron Gavin uses tiny pipettes to carefully feed shrimp to more than 700 corals living in huge saltwater tanks, with sunlight-mimicking lamps glowing above them.

The work of the scientists here could be the last chance to save the species that make up the only&nbsp;coral&nbsp;reef&nbsp;in the United States' continental waters.&nbsp;

Gavin and his team have diligently recreated the&nbsp;coral&nbsp;reef&nbsp;habitat found in the waters off the southern tip of the state, complete with artificial currents and local fish.

They hope to prevent the 18 species of&nbsp;coral&nbsp;in their care from suffering the same mysterious ailment, called SCTLD (stony&nbsp;coral&nbsp;tissue loss disease), that is afflicting their wild cousins.

Among the sprawling mangroves and darting schools of fish off the&nbsp;Florida&nbsp;Keys, the damaged corals,&nbsp;normally dark,&nbsp;now appear as large white patches on the floor of the Atlantic Ocean.

The situation is the same all along the&nbsp;Florida&nbsp;Reef&nbsp;Tract, which stretches 360 miles&nbsp; from the Dry Tortugas, which are the westernmost islands in the&nbsp;Florida&nbsp;Keys, all the way to the town of St Lucie, located about 120 miles north of Miami.&nbsp;

"It's heartbreaking, and I think the most alarming (thing) about it is that most people don't know it's happening," said Michelle Ashton, the communications director of the Fish and Wildlife Foundation of&nbsp;Florida.&nbsp;

Rescue

What Gavin and his colleagues discover at the&nbsp;Florida&nbsp;Coral&nbsp;Rescue Center could change the future of the state's marine ecosystems.

"We are holding the corals safely and healthy in our care," explained Justin Zimmerman, the director of the Orlando-based lab, which opened in 2020 and is managed by aquatic theme park company SeaWorld.&nbsp;

"If they were still in the wild, up to 90 percent of them would have been dead," Zimmerman said.&nbsp;

The potentially catastrophic SCTLD was first discovered in 2014, near Miami, and has continued to spread rapidly, killing about half of stony&nbsp;coral&nbsp;species, a cornerstone of marine biodiversity.&nbsp;

The disease, whose causes are unknown, is now plaguing the animals further into the Caribbean, all the way in Mexico and Belize.&nbsp;

The rescue lab's work is part of a project created in 2018 by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association and the&nbsp;Florida&nbsp;Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and includes dozens of public and private organizations.&nbsp;

The group, faced with the threat of more than 20 of the 45 species of hard corals in the area going extinct, devised the unprecedented plan to extract healthy corals from the region's waters and care for them in these artificially equipped aquariums in the hope they can be returned to their wild habitats in the future.&nbsp;

"You are looking at the future of&nbsp;Florida&nbsp;Reef&nbsp;Tract in this room," Aston said of the corals in the Orlando aquariums. "And their grandchildren will be what goes back out to the water."

Return to the sea

The first part of the rescue plan has allowed wildlife authorities to save nearly 2,000 colonies of corals, now stored at more than 20 institutions in 14 different states.&nbsp;

The second part of the plan requires researchers to successfully return the corals to the ocean -- though such an operation would likely take place a long time from now, as corals reproduce very slowly.&nbsp;

The scientists are studying the genetics of the rescued animals in an effort to cultivate new specimens that could be more resistant to disease, as well as other threats such as warming water temperatures and pollution.&nbsp;

The success or failure of these endeavors could have huge consequences for the region.&nbsp;

Stony corals, made up of limestone skeletons, are what create&nbsp;coral&nbsp;reefs, which in turn provide a home for a quarter of marine life.&nbsp;

Plus, the structures are natural barriers between the open ocean and land, reducing the strength of waves that hit the coastline, especially during hurricanes and other storms.&nbsp;

And a hit to&nbsp;coral&nbsp;health could mean a hit to&nbsp;Florida&nbsp;tourism revenue, as one study estimated that visitors drawn to the state for fishing and diving along the&nbsp;reef&nbsp;generate $8.5 billion.&nbsp;

Key Largo resident Steve Campbell, 59, is worried about what comes next. He is sitting next to the small tourist boat he captains, currently anchored in the port.&nbsp;

He said the&nbsp;coral&nbsp;disease has already had an impact on his business.&nbsp;

"I've been in the&nbsp;Florida&nbsp;Keys now for 20 years, and I'm out on the water every day," he said.&nbsp;

"Obviously we make our living out here, so we take people out to the&nbsp;reef&nbsp;for the enjoyment of seeing the&nbsp;reef."

"So for us it's extremely important."

At a laboratory in central Florida, biologist Aaron Gavin uses tiny pipettes to carefully feed shrimp to more than 700 corals living in huge saltwater tanks, with sunlight-mimicking lamps glowing above them.

At a laboratory in central Florida, biologist Aaron Gavin uses tiny pipettes to carefully feed shrimp to more than 700 corals living in huge saltwater tanks, with sunlight-mimicking lamps glowing above them. The work of the scientists here could be the last chance to save the species that make up the only coral reef in the United States' continental waters. Gavin and his team have diligently recreated the coral reef habitat found in the waters off the southern tip of the state, complete with artificial currents and local fish. They hope to prevent the 18 species of coral in their care from suffering the same mysterious ailment, called SCTLD (stony coral tissue loss disease), that is afflicting their wild cousins. Among the sprawling mangroves and darting schools of fish off the Florida Keys, the damaged corals, normally dark, now appear as large white patches on the floor of the Atlantic Ocean. The situation is the same all along the Florida Reef Tract, which stretches 360 miles from the Dry Tortugas, which are the westernmost islands in the Florida Keys, all the way to the town of St Lucie, located about 120 miles north of Miami. "It's heartbreaking, and I think the most alarming (thing) about it is that most people don't know it's happening," said Michelle Ashton, the communications director of the Fish and Wildlife Foundation of Florida. Rescue What Gavin and his colleagues discover at the Florida Coral Rescue Center could change the future of the state's marine ecosystems. "We are holding the corals safely and healthy in our care," explained Justin Zimmerman, the director of the Orlando-based lab, which opened in 2020 and is managed by aquatic theme park company SeaWorld. "If they were still in the wild, up to 90 percent of them would have been dead," Zimmerman said. The potentially catastrophic SCTLD was first discovered in 2014, near Miami, and has continued to spread rapidly, killing about half of stony coral species, a cornerstone of marine biodiversity. The disease, whose causes are unknown, is now plaguing the animals further into the Caribbean, all the way in Mexico and Belize. The rescue lab's work is part of a project created in 2018 by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, and includes dozens of public and private organizations. The group, faced with the threat of more than 20 of the 45 species of hard corals in the area going extinct, devised the unprecedented plan to extract healthy corals from the region's waters and care for them in these artificially equipped aquariums in the hope they can be returned to their wild habitats in the future. "You are looking at the future of Florida Reef Tract in this room," Aston said of the corals in the Orlando aquariums. "And their grandchildren will be what goes back out to the water." Return to the sea The first part of the rescue plan has allowed wildlife authorities to save nearly 2,000 colonies of corals, now stored at more than 20 institutions in 14 different states. The second part of the plan requires researchers to successfully return the corals to the ocean -- though such an operation would likely take place a long time from now, as corals reproduce very slowly. The scientists are studying the genetics of the rescued animals in an effort to cultivate new specimens that could be more resistant to disease, as well as other threats such as warming water temperatures and pollution. The success or failure of these endeavors could have huge consequences for the region. Stony corals, made up of limestone skeletons, are what create coral reefs, which in turn provide a home for a quarter of marine life. Plus, the structures are natural barriers between the open ocean and land, reducing the strength of waves that hit the coastline, especially during hurricanes and other storms. And a hit to coral health could mean a hit to Florida tourism revenue, as one study estimated that visitors drawn to the state for fishing and diving along the reef generate $8.5 billion. Key Largo resident Steve Campbell, 59, is worried about what comes next. He is sitting next to the small tourist boat he captains, currently anchored in the port. He said the coral disease has already had an impact on his business. "I've been in the Florida Keys now for 20 years, and I'm out on the water every day," he said. "Obviously we make our living out here, so we take people out to the reef for the enjoyment of seeing the reef." "So for us it's extremely important."

Scientists race to save Florida coral reef from mysterious disease

Florida police and the FBI are searching for the fiancé of the missing woman, Gabby Petito, after his family told the officials that they had not seen him in three days, further deepening the mystery surrounding the 22-year-old woman.

Petito and her boyfriend Brian Laundrie had been on a “van life” trip across the south-western US, living in their vehicle.

The case has been drawing attention across the US, partly due to Petito’s large following on Instagram. Her last post was dated August 25.

Petito’s family reported her missing on September 11, 10 days after Laundrie returned to Florida without her.

“The attorney for the Laundrie family called FBI investigators Friday night indicating the family would like to talk about the disappearance of their son. The family now claims that they have not seen Brian since Tuesday of this week,” Josh Taylor of the North Port Police Department said in a statement.

On Saturday, police searched a vast wildlife reserve near the Gulf coast for Laundrie, who they said was a person of interest in the case but was not wanted for any crime.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gabby-petito-mystery-deepens-as-us-girl-22-goes-missing-on-a-road-trip-with-fiance-413698">Gabby Petito: Mystery deepens as US girl, 22, goes missing on a road trip with fiancé</a>

Dozens of North Port police officers, FBI agents and members of other law enforcement agencies searched the 24,000-acre Carlton reserve in the Sarasota area.

“His family says they believe he entered the area earlier this week,” North Port police tweeted.

Police said Laundrie’s family told officers they had not seen him since Tuesday, but had not told authorities he was missing for three days.

The conversation on Friday evening, police said, was the first time they had spoken to Laundrie’s family in detail, and came at the family’s request.

An attorney for the family called FBI investigators and said they wanted to talk, police said.

In a separate statement, police said the investigation was now a “multiple missing persons” case, they said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Florida police and the FBI are searching for the fiancé of the missing woman, Gabby Petito, after his family told the officials that they had not seen him in three days, further deepening the mystery surrounding the 22-year-old woman.

Florida police and the FBI are searching for the fiancé of the missing woman, Gabby Petito, after his family told the officials that they had not seen him in three days, further deepening the mystery surrounding the 22-year-old woman. Petito and her boyfriend Brian Laundrie had been on a “van life” trip across the south-western US, living in their vehicle. The case has been drawing attention across the US, partly due to Petito’s large following on Instagram. Her last post was dated August 25. Petito’s family reported her missing on September 11, 10 days after Laundrie returned to Florida without her. “The attorney for the Laundrie family called FBI investigators Friday night indicating the family would like to talk about the disappearance of their son. The family now claims that they have not seen Brian since Tuesday of this week,” Josh Taylor of the North Port Police Department said in a statement. On Saturday, police searched a vast wildlife reserve near the Gulf coast for Laundrie, who they said was a person of interest in the case but was not wanted for any crime. Also read | Gabby Petito: Mystery deepens as US girl, 22, goes missing on a road trip with fiancé Dozens of North Port police officers, FBI agents and members of other law enforcement agencies searched the 24,000-acre Carlton reserve in the Sarasota area. “His family says they believe he entered the area earlier this week,” North Port police tweeted. Police said Laundrie’s family told officers they had not seen him since Tuesday, but had not told authorities he was missing for three days. The conversation on Friday evening, police said, was the first time they had spoken to Laundrie’s family in detail, and came at the family’s request. An attorney for the family called FBI investigators and said they wanted to talk, police said. In a separate statement, police said the investigation was now a “multiple missing persons” case, they said. (With inputs from agencies)

FBI, Florida police on hunt for Gabby Petito’s fiancé after family says he is ‘missing’

Over 460 national and international participants competed off the Florida Keys on Saturday (September 11) during Swim for Alligator Lighthouse Race, an 8-mile open-water challenge.

Over 460 swimmers compete in open-water Florida Keys race | Edge | WION Latest News

Four people, including a mother and her infant, were killed by a gunman wearing full body armour in Florida on early Sunday morning (according to US time zone).

Notably, this is the second mass shooting incident that has taken place in Florida in the last four months.

Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said the suspect, who is yet to be identified, was dressed in full body armour, including a bulletproof vest, when he was found outside a Lakeland home that had been “booby-trapped."

While trying to nab the gunman, two rounds of gunfire with police, where dozens “if not hundreds of rounds” were exchanged, Judd said.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Update?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Update</a> to quadruple homicide in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Lakeland?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Lakeland</a> <a href="https://t.co/mkGx2uxojS">https://t.co/mkGx2uxojS</a> <a href="https://t.co/L5tb5kHomH">pic.twitter.com/L5tb5kHomH</a>
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The suspect escaped from the house at some point, then retreated back to surrender.

Inside the home, authorities found an 11-year-old girl who had been shot multiple times.

She told the cops that there were three dead people inside, Judd said during a news conference Sunday

The officers then searched the home to check for explosives and other traps. When it was clear, they found a mother with an infant in her arms, and another unidentified victim all dead from gunshot wounds.

They also found another woman fatally shot in a neighbouring home.

Although the authorities haven’t been able to find out the motive for the killing, the sheriff said the attacker confronted a witness roughly nine hours before the shooting and told her, “God sent me here to speak with one of your daughters.”

The police said they are finding the relationship between the shooter and the victims.

The shooter also told authorities that he was on methamphetamines—a powerful, highly addictive recreational drug.

The attacker vehicle had also been stocked with supplies for a gunfight, authorities said, including bleeding control kits.

“He was a coward...It’s easy to shoot innocent children and babies and people in the middle of the night when you've got the gun and they don’t,” the sheriff said.

The shooter has been hospitalized and is expected to recover.

There has been a surge in mass shootings across the United States, with President Joe Biden terming it an “epidemic.”

The first shooting took place on June 11, where two people, including a child, were shot dead in a grocery store in Florida. The gunman later killed himself.

(With inputs from agencies)

Four people, including a mother and her infant, were killed by a gunman wearing full body armour in Florida on early Sunday morning (according to US time zone). Notably, this is the second mass shooting incident that has taken place in Florida in the last four months.

Four people, including a mother and her infant, were killed by a gunman wearing full body armour in Florida on early Sunday morning (according to US time zone). Notably, this is the second mass shooting incident that has taken place in Florida in the last four months. Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd said the suspect, who is yet to be identified, was dressed in full body armour, including a bulletproof vest, when he was found outside a Lakeland home that had been “booby-trapped." While trying to nab the gunman, two rounds of gunfire with police, where dozens “if not hundreds of rounds” were exchanged, Judd said. #Update to quadruple homicide in #Lakeland https://t.co/mkGx2uxojS pic.twitter.com/L5tb5kHomH — Polk County Sheriff 🚔 (@PolkCoSheriff) September 5, 2021 × The suspect escaped from the house at some point, then retreated back to surrender. Inside the home, authorities found an 11-year-old girl who had been shot multiple times. She told the cops that there were three dead people inside, Judd said during a news conference Sunday The officers then searched the home to check for explosives and other traps. When it was clear, they found a mother with an infant in her arms, and another unidentified victim all dead from gunshot wounds. They also found another woman fatally shot in a neighbouring home. Although the authorities haven’t been able to find out the motive for the killing, the sheriff said the attacker confronted a witness roughly nine hours before the shooting and told her, “God sent me here to speak with one of your daughters.” The police said they are finding the relationship between the shooter and the victims. The shooter also told authorities that he was on methamphetamines—a powerful, highly addictive recreational drug. The attacker vehicle had also been stocked with supplies for a gunfight, authorities said, including bleeding control kits. “He was a coward...It’s easy to shoot innocent children and babies and people in the middle of the night when you've got the gun and they don’t,” the sheriff said. The shooter has been hospitalized and is expected to recover. There has been a surge in mass shootings across the United States, with President Joe Biden terming it an “epidemic.” The first shooting took place on June 11, where two people, including a child, were shot dead in a grocery store in Florida. The gunman later killed himself. (With inputs from agencies)

Mother, her infant among 4 killed by gunman in Florida

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