The Taliban said they discussed normalizing relations between Afghanistan and the United States in a meeting with Trump administration officials Saturday.

The White House did not issue a statement describing the meeting or immediately respond to a request for comment. The Taliban statement said the regime's foreign minister, Amir Khan Muttaqi, met with President Donald Trump's special envoy for hostage response, Adam Boehler, and with another U.S. envoy, Zalmay Khalilzad,.

The Taliban released photographs from their talks.

RELATED STORY | Families of Americans held by Taliban upset by lack of deal for their release

Comprehensive discussions were held on ways to develop bilateral relations between the two countries, issues related to citizens, and investment opportunities in Afghanistan, the statement said.

The statement added that the U.S. delegation also expressed condolences over the devastating earthquake in eastern Afghanistan late last month.

The meeting came after the Taliban released U.S. citizen George Glezmann, who was abducted while traveling through Afghanistan as a tourist. He was the third detainee freed by the Taliban since Trump took office. It also came after the Taliban sharply criticizedTrump's new travel ban that bars Afghans from entering the United States.

A California woman was charged earlier this month with allegedly registering her dog to vote and successfully casting a ballot in the states 2021 gubernatorial recall election.

Laura Lee Yourex faces two counts of casting a ballot when not entitled to vote, one count of perjury, one count of procuring or offering a false or forged document to be filed, and one count of registering a non-existent person to vote.

The Orange County District Attorneys Office said Yourex self-reported registering her dog to vote to the countys registrar of voters.

Authorities said she was able to cast a ballot in the 2021 election using her dogs identity, as the state does not require proof of residence or identification for state elections. Her attempt to use her dogs identity to vote in the 2022 midterm primary was rejected because proof of residence and registration is required for first-time voters in federal elections, authorities said.

If convicted, she could face up to six years in prison.

"Following an investigation by the Orange County District Attorneys Office Bureau of Investigation, sufficient evidence was discovered to file criminal charges against Yourex for illegally registering her dog to vote and then casting mail-in ballots issued to her dog based on the fraudulent voter registration," the prosecutor's office said in a press release. "On her social media, Yourex posted in January 2022 a picture of her dog wearing an 'I voted' sticker and posing with her ballot. Another post from October 2024, showed a photograph of Mayas dog tag and a vote-by-mail ballot with the caption, 'Maya is still getting her ballot,' even though the dog had previously passed away."

According to the Heritage Foundation, there have been 69 known cases of election fraud in California dating back to 1982.

President Donald Trumps tariff policy, immigration crackdowns and sweeping tax and spending law are expected to increase jobless rates and inflation and lower overall growth this year before they improve next year, according to a new report from the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office.

The CBO on Friday released new economic projections for the next three years, updating the outlook it originally released in January, before Trump's inauguration.

The latest figures, which compare fourth quarter changes, show the unemployment rate, inflation and overall growth are expected to be worse this year than initially projected, while the economic picture is expected to steady in subsequent years.

The CBO outlooks attempt to set expectations for the economy in order to help choices made by congressional and executive branch policymakers. It does not forecast economic downturns or recessions, with its estimates generally reverting back to an expected average over time.

But Fridays outlook showed the degree to which Trumps choices are altering the path of the U.S. economy, suggesting that growth has been hampered in the near term by choices that have yet to show the promised upside of more jobs and lower budget deficits.

Kush Desai, a White House spokesperson, told The Associated Press, Americans heard similar doom-and-gloom forecasts during President Trumps first term, when the Presidents economic agenda unleashed historic job, wage, and economic growth and the first decline in wealth inequality in decades.

These same policies of tax cuts, tariffs, deregulation, and energy abundance are set to deliver and prove the forecasters wrong again in President Trumps second term, he said.

Overall, the CBO expects real GDP growth to decrease from 2.5% in 2024 to 1.4% this year, a downgrade from the initial projection of 1.9%. The CBO attributes the projected decline to a slowdown in consumer spending stemming from new tariffs and a decrease in immigration, which would also impact consumer spending.

The tariffs raise prices for consumer goods and services, thereby eroding the purchasing power of households; they also increase costs for businesses that use imported and import-competing inputs in production, the report says.

However, GDP is set to grow to 2.2% in 2026, which is higher than the CBO's January prediction of 1.8%. GDP would then level off to 1.8% in 2027 and 2028, the CBO says in its latest report.

Additionally, unemployment is expected to hit 4.5% in 2025, higher than the 4.3% initially expected, according to the CBO. The jobless rate is expected to reach 4.2% in 2026 slightly lower than the 4.4% originally anticipated and even out at 4.4% in 2027 and 2028.

And inflation is now expected to hit 3.1% for the rest of 2025, according to the CBO, up from its 2.2% projection in January. Inflation would then lower to 2.4% in 2026, higher than the initial expectation of 2.1%, before leveling off at 2% the next two years.

The CBO on Wednesday issued a report that shows Trumps plans for mass deportations and other hard-line immigration measures will result in roughly 320,000 people removed from the United States over the next ten years.

Coupled with a lower fertility rate in the U.S., the reduction in immigration means that the CBOs projection of the U.S. population will be 4.5 million people lower by 2035 than the nonpartisan office had projected in January.

The U.S. Department of Justice is suing Uber, alleging the company denied rides to disabled passengers, including those who use service dogs and wheelchairs.

The DOJ said it is seeking $125 million from Uber for customers it says the company illegally discriminated against.

Uber is accused of violating Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which says private transportation companies must comply with basic nondiscrimination requirements that prohibit exclusion, segregation, and unequal treatment. They also must comply with specific requirements related to architectural standards for new and altered buildings; reasonable modifications to policies, practices, and procedures; effective communication with people with hearing, vision, or speech disabilities; and other access requirements.

"Additionally, public accommodations must remove barriers in existing buildings where it is easy to do so without much difficulty or expense, given the public accommodations resources.

Rideshare companies like Uber are prohibited from denying riders with disabilities the same access to transportation that riders without disabilities enjoy, said U.S. Attorney Craig H. Missakian of the Northern District of California. This complaint underscores the United States commitment to enforcing the ADAs promise of equal access.

In a statement to The Associated Press, Uber said drivers must agree to anti-discrimination policies.

Riders who use guide dogs or other assistive devices deserve a safe, respectful and welcoming experience on Uber full stop, the company said.

The latest measure of consumer inflation shows prices are rising, and according to a Yale University analysis, increased costs from tariffs implemented by President Donald Trump could push thousands of Americans into poverty.

The Yale Budget Lab estimates that new 2025 tariffs could increase the number of Americans living in poverty by 650,000 to 875,000, depending on the method used to measure poverty.

The analysis assumes that incomes from jobs will remain steady despite higher tariffs. It also accounts for government programs, such as Social Security, that adjust payments based on inflation.

Yale economists say the current U.S. tariff rate is 17.4%, the highest since 1935. The report projects that the average U.S. household will lose about $2,300 a year because of tariffs.

Tariffs are taxes charged to companies importing products into the United States. The rate varies depending on the country of origin and the type of product.

While some companies tried to absorb the cost of tariffs early in Trumps presidency, more now say those costs will ultimately be passed on to consumers.

Trump says the tariffs are intended to revive U.S. manufacturing jobs and reduce the nations trade deficit with other countries.

According to new data released on Thursday, the consumer price index increased to at 2.9% in the 12-month period ending in July. It was at 2.7% for the 12-month period ending in June and July. The inflation rate is 0.5 percentage points higher than May's rate of 2.4%, and 0.6 percentage points higher than April's consumer price index, which marked the lowest year-over-year inflation rate since 2021.

The consumer price index weighs the costs of goods based on their importance; items like food, shelter, and energy tend to be weighted more heavily.

Experienced prosecutors and defense attorneys say President Donald Trump and Gov. Spencer Cox may have hurt their own case if they truly believe the man accused of murdering Charlie Kirk should receive the death penalty.

Cox brought up the topic for the first time on Wednesday, long before 22-year-old suspect Tyler Robinson was identified or arrested.

"To whoever did this, we will find you," Cox said. "We will try you, and we will hold you accountable to the furthest extent of the law. I just want to remind people that we still have the death penalty in the state of Utah."

On Thursday, he doubled down.

"We are going to catch this person," Cox said. "We are working with our attorneys, getting affidavits, so we can pursue the death penalty in this case, and that will happen."

On Friday, the governor took control of the press conference to announce Robinson's arrest.

"There is one person responsible for what happened here, and that person is now in custody," Cox said.

RELATED STORY | What we know about Tyler Robinson, the suspect in killing of Charlie Kirk

President Trump made similar comments before and after Robinson's arrest.

"He's going to be found guilty, I would imagine, and I hope he gets the death penalty," the president said on Friday.

The Scripps News Group spoke with multiple prosecutors and defense attorneys with experience working death penalty cases to gain their insight on how these comments could affect courtroom proceedings.

Fred Metos has worked as a defense attorney for the past 47 years.

"When someone is charged with a crime in this country, they're presumed innocent," said Metos. "This is more than just the 'cart ahead of the horse.' You've got a situation where the governor has basically got him convicted."

Metos said he believes comments by politicians are problematic because defense attorneys will use their words to gain a legal advantage.

"It makes it difficult for everybody," Metos said. "When a politician starts commenting on a pending criminal case, hes putting his foot in his mouth."

Utah Attorney General Derek Brown has not confirmed whether prosecutors will seek the death penalty.

"At this point, we're making that determination," he said.

Prosecutors routinely avoid discussing the merits of a case with the media to avoid breaking rules intended to ensure a fair trial. In some cases, prosecutors have been disciplined by the Utah Office of Professional Conduct.

Attorneys interviewed by the Scripps News Group on Friday were also confused to learn that the Utah Governor's Office decided to publish booking photos of the suspect.

Mugshots have been considered "protected records" in Utah since 2021.

Lawmakers say they made the change to ensure defendants get the right to a fair trial.

Some took no issue with the governor making an exception for Robinson. Others felt it was a double standard. Metos referred to it as a "disturbing" detail that he believes will be used by defense attorneys.

"Its something that adds to the circus," Metos said. "This case is already being treated differently, and this individual is not getting the protections that everyone else does."

Prosecutors intend to file charges against Robinson on Tuesday.

This article was written by Adam Herbets for the Scripps News Group in Salt Lake City.

There's bipartisan support in Congress for extending tax credits that have made health insurance more affordable for millions of people since the COVID-19pandemic. But the credits are in danger of expiring as Republicans and Democrats clash over how to do it.

Democrats are threatening to vote to shut down the government at the end of the month if Republicans don't extend the subsidies, which were first put in place in 2021 and extended a year later when they controlled Congress and the White House. The tax credits, which are slated to expire at the end of the year, go to low- and middle-income people who purchase health insurance through the Affordable Care Act.

Some Republicans who have opposed the health care law since it was enacted under President Barack Obama are suddenly open to keeping the tax credits. They acknowledge that many of their constituents could see steep hikes in coverage if the subsidies are allowed to lapse.

Still, the two sides are far apart. Republicans are divided, with many firmly opposed. GOP leaders in the House and Senate have been open but noncommittal on the extension, and many of those Republicans who say they support it argue that the tax credits should be reworked potentially opening up a new health care debate that could take months to resolve.

RELATED STORY | Mayors, doctor groups sue over Trump's efforts to restrict Obamacare enrollment

Democrats would be unlikely to agree to any changes in the subsidies, increasing the chances of a standoff and mounting uncertainty for health insurers, hospitals, state governments and the people who receive them.

In just a few weeks, unless Congress acts, millions of Americans will start getting letters in the mail telling them their health insurance costs are about to go through the roof hundreds of dollars, thousands in some cases, Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer said this past week.

Millions of Americans could face higher health insurance rates

Enrollment in ACA plans has surged to a record 24 million people, in large part due to the billions of dollars in subsidies that have lowered costs for many people. The expanded subsidies allowed some lower-income enrollees to access health plans with no premiums and capped the amount higher earners pay for premiums to 8.5% of their income. It also expanded eligibility for middle-class earners.

With expiration now just a few months away, some of those people have already gotten notices that their premiums the monthly fee paid for insurance coverage are poised to spike next year. Insurers have sent out notices in nearly every state, with some proposing premium increases of as much as 50 percent.

Lawmakers are facing pressure to act from some of the countrys biggest industries, including the insurers that cover people on the marketplace and hospital executives who say theyre already going to be squeezed by the Medicaid cuts in President Donald Trumps big, beautiful" tax bill.

Theres broad awareness that theres a real spike and premiums coming right around the corner, both Republicans and Democrats, said David Merritt, senior vice president of external affairs at Blue Cross Blue Shield. Its certainly lining up for Congress to have an opportunity to head off this problem.

Companies have said theyll need to raise premiums without the subsidies because healthier and younger people are more likely to opt out of coverage when it gets more expensive, leaving insurers to cover older and sicker patients.

In Iowa last month, the states insurance commissioner weighed increases ranging from 3% to 37% against a stream of angry public comments. One woman who runs a garden center in Cedar Falls, Iowa, said she was considering dropping health insurance altogether.

I am already living as frugally as I possibly can while working as hard as I possibly can, putting in as many hours as I am allowed to at my job, never missing a day of work, the woman, LuAnn, wrote in a public comment published to the commissioners website.

Tug-of-war over Obamacare spending plays out on the Hill

On Capitol Hill, the issue has become entangled in a larger fight over government funding as a shutdown looms at the end of the month. Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries have said Democrats will not vote to keep the government open unless an extension of the health care tax credits is part of the deal. Republicans have said that they want more time to look at the subsidies and potentially scale them back. They will also have to wait for a signal from Trump, who has not yet weighed in.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | Justices preserve key part of Obamacare coverage requirements

Jeffries said this past week that we will not support a partisan Republican spending bill that continues to rip away health care from the American people.

Republican leaders are eyeing a potential stopgap bill that would keep the government open for a few weeks and are unlikely, for now, to include the extension. But GOP leaders in both the House and Senate are also under pressure from some members who worry that premium increases will be a political liability before the midterm elections.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., has said he wants to see a proposal from Democrats on how to extend the subsidies since they are pushing the issue. Maybe there is something we can do in the middle as a solution," he said in a Punchbowl News interview on Thursday, adding that his members are divided on the issue.

Still, Thune has ruled out quick action, even as he noted that premium notices will go out soon. He has said a short-term spending measure to fund the government for several weeks while Congress finishes its budget bills is not likely to include an extension of the benefits,

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., has said that many of his members would oppose an extension, but has not ruled it out.

In recent days, 15 House Republicans in competitive political districts introduced legislation to extend the tax credits for one year. While the enhanced premium tax credit created during the pandemic was meant to be temporary, we should not let it expire without a plan in place, said Rep. Jen Kiggans, R-Va., who led the effort with Rep. Tom Suozzi, D-N.Y.

Middle-class and small business owners, like the ones who dot Kiggan's coastal Virginia district, will be especially vulnerable to big health insurance hikes if the subsidies are not extended.

Several Senate Republicans also said they'd favor an extension. Missouri Sen. Josh Hawley said that if Congress doesn't act, some premiums will "skyrocket, and not by a little bit. Were looking at massive increases. People will not be able to afford it.

Texas Sen. John Cornyn said he thinks Congress should scale back the subsidies for the highest income people who receive them. I think we all know that access to health care is important and we take it very seriously, he said.

Senate Finance Committee Chairman Mike Crapo, R-Idaho, who has jurisdiction over the tax credits, said he's working with his colleagues to figure out if there is a solution. There are a lot of ideas being thrown out there," Crapo said. "I'm trying to find a solution, I'm not telling you what the solution is.

Others were firmly against it. It's costing us billions of dollars, said Sen. Ron Johnson, R-Wis.

Open enrollment begins Nov. 1 and people will begin to see real sticker shock, as ACA plan prices are posted next month, said Sen. Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis.

Timing is important, Baldwin said.

The Detroit Lions are back home and Greektown businesses are counting on loyal fans to navigate construction barriers for Sunday's season opener against the Chicago Bears.

Greektown, one of downtown Detroit's entertainment hot spots, remains largely under construction with most of Monroe Street closed until late 2026. But behind the barricades and narrow sidewalks, small business owners are gearing up for another Lions season with optimism.

Watch Brett Kast's video report below: Greektown businesses prepare for Detroit Lions season amid construction

"Our street may be closed down, but our sidewalks and doors are always open," Yanni Dionisopoulos said.

Dionisopoulos co-owns multiple Greektown businesses, including the new country bar Who Loves Ya Baby. He says the ongoing construction has been particularly challenging in recent weeks.

"The last few weeks, it's been a lot more noticeable. Thank God the Lions are back in town," Dionisopoulos said.

For downtown businesses, game days are crucial revenue drivers. Dionisopoulos says Lions home games often bring in 10 times the business of a normal Sunday.

"A lot, and it's deeply needed and it helps with our business, our staff," Dionisopoulos said.

Previous report: 'We're all in intensive care': Greektown restaurant worried about losses due to construction 'We're all in intensive care': Greektown restaurant worried about losses due to construction

The construction project aims to create a new pedestrian-friendly streetscape, but for now, the work has confined foot traffic to narrow sidewalks and alleys. Just in time for this weekend's game, Monroe Street reopened from St. Antoine Street to Chrysler Drive.

Some fans are adapting to the changes. Emily Gray, visiting from Ann Arbor, appreciated the navigation help.

"They had nice signs and a little map, so you could find where you're going," Gray said.

Lions fan Jeff Handy acknowledges the construction's impact but remains committed to supporting local businesses.

"It's still great, but it's impacting," Handy said.

"It's awesome to be so close to the stadium. Maybe we'll go to the game but if not, we'll be watching the game from around here supporting local business."

Meanwhile, the Lions and Rocket Mortgage held a kickoff block party in southwest Detroit, building citywide excitement for the new season.

"It's going to be really great, man. A lot of energy downtown, so we expect to have a great turnout and hopefully a great game," Lions fan Ernest Love said.

As the Lions rely on their loyal fanbase for success, Greektown businesses are banking on that same loyalty to overcome construction challenges.

Previous report: Greektown wants you to know they're open for business despite construction Greektown wants you to know they're open for business despite construction

"As we all know, we have a very loyal fan base for the Lions as we do for Greektown, and I'm very confident that will not get in the way," Dionisopoulos said.

The game kicks off at 1 p.m. Sunday.

"This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy."

Four people were taken into custody, including a person who was shot, after an officer-involved shooting and police chase being led by suspects in a stolen vehicle Friday evening, authorities said.

Watch Evan Sery's video report from the scene below: 4 in custody after shooting involving Warren officers and stolen vehicle chase

The incident happened around 6:35 p.m. near 8 Mile Road and Waltham Avenue.

Warren police said officers responded to the area for a report of a stolen GMC Acadia. Officers found the vehicle backed into the parking lot of a business that was open. Police said four people were inside the car.

When officers in full uniform approached the Acadia, the vehicle tried to take off.

The driver of the vehicle hit two patrol cars and drove toward officers, officials said.

Police said shots were then fired. Its unclear at this time who fired the shots.

The Acadia took off and Warren police pursued the vehicle, officials said. Police said the Acadia became disabled in the area of 8 Mile Road and Yonka Street in Detroit.

Police took all four people inside the vehicle into custody. One of them was injured after being shot and taken to the hospital by the Detroit Fire Department. That person is in stable condition.

The other suspects were taken to the Warren jail.

No officers were injured. Police said there is no threat to the community.

Detectives and technicians went to both scenes to investigate.

Top Trump administration officials are meeting with Qatars prime minister on the heels of Israels strike against Hamas in Doha.

President Trump was scheduled to meet with Qatars prime minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani Friday, according to a White House official. Trump and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff are expected to have dinner with Al-Thani. The Qatari leader earlier the same day met with Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, according to a source familiar with the meeting.

Qatar, a US ally which has been mediating cease-fire negotiations between Israel and Hamas and hosts a US military base, strongly condemned the strike Israel carried out Tuesday. Israel said it carried out the precise strike as part of its ongoing retaliation for the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attacks. Israeli officials said the Hamas figures targeted in the strike had led the terrorist organizations operations, are directly responsible for the brutal Oct. 7 massacre." Al-Thani told the UN it was not only an assault on the State of Qatar but an assault on the very essence of diplomacy and the pursuit of peaceful solutions.

Trump has said he was not thrilled after the strike.

RELATED STORY | Trump criticizes Israels strike on Hamas in Qatar but is hopeful for peace

We want the hostages back but we are not thrilled about the way that went down today, Trump said Tuesday.

The White House said the Trump administration was notified by the US military Israel was striking Hamas in the capital of Qatar, but Witkoffs immediate notification to the Qataris Trump said came unfortunately, too late stop the attack. Trump said he spoke to Al-Thani following the strike and assured them that such a thing will not happen again on their soil and directed Rubio to finalize a defense cooperation agreement with Qatar.

I want ALL of the Hostages, and bodies of the dead, released, and this War to END, NOW! I also spoke to Prime Minister Netanyahu after the attack. The Prime Minister told me that he wants to make Peace. I believe this unfortunate incident could serve as an opportunity for PEACE, Trump stated on Truth Social.

Rubio is expected to travel to Israel, the State Department said, where he will convey Americas priorities in the Israel-Hamas conflict and broader issues concerning Middle Eastern security, reaffirming U.S. commitment to Israeli security. He will also emphasize our shared goals: ensuring Hamas never rules over Gaza again and bringing all the hostages home."

Erika Kirk, widow of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, made her first public comments on Friday after he was shot and killed on Wednesday.

"He was the perfect father. He was the perfect husband," Erika Kirk said. "My husband laid down his life for me, for our nation, for our children."

"The evildoers responsible for my husband's assassination have no idea what they've done," she said. "They killed Charlie because he preached a message of patriotism, faith, and God's merciful love."

Kirk pledged to continue Charlie's work touring campuses to speak with American students, and said the podcast and show he had started would go on.

"The movement my husband build will not die. It won't. I refuse to let that happen," she said. "It will become stronger, bolder, louder and greater than ever. My husband's mission will not end. Not even for a moment."

RELATED STORY | Who was Charlie Kirk? What we know about the conservative political influencer

Charlie Kirk, a 31-year-old conservative activist closely aligned with President Trump, was killed during a speaking event at Utah Valley University.

Kirk was the founder of Turning Point USA, a right-wing political nonprofit organization that advocates for conservative politics on high school and college campuses across the U.S. making him a major figure and voice within the young conservative movement, with millions of followers across his various social media platforms.

He was at the university on Wednesday to kick off his "The American Comeback Tour," where he engaged students through political debates under tents branded with phrases like "Prove Me Wrong."

Kirk was about 20 minutes into his speaking event when a single shot hit him in the neck, according to officials.

RELATED STORY | What we know about Tyler Robinson, the suspect arrested in killing of Charlie Kirk

Tyler Robinson, the suspect in the killing of Kirk, was arrested late Thursday night, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox confirmed at a news conference on Friday ending a 33-hour manhunt. Robinson was arrested in St George, Utah, which is about 250 miles from Utah Valley University, the site of Wednesday's assassination.

Cox's announcement came hours after President Donald Trump said in an interview with Fox News that a suspect was placed in custody.

Later on Friday, Robinson was initially charged with aggravated murder, felony discharge of a firearm causing serious bodily injury, and obstruction of justice. Formal charges against Robinson are expected as early as next week.

Inflation continues to tick up, and new federal data shows a growing number of people are out of work.

That combination is causing concern about the potential for stagflation.

"Stagflation is when the economy is weakening, weakening labor market, weakening GDP, but also we're seeing rising prices," said Bankrate financial analyst Stephen Kates.

Consumer prices were up 2.9% in August compared to a year ago, rising at their fastest pace since January.

Meanwhile, separate federal data showed 263,000 people submitted jobless claims last week, the most since October of 2021.

Those conditions point to stagflation, but a milder version than what Americans saw a half century ago, says Kates.

"You could call that stagflation, but it is a far cry from the stagflation that is sort of built into the history books from the 70s and 80s," Kates said.

RELATED STORY | BLS revises job numbers after overcounting 911,000 positions

The dual data indicates a challenging environment for consumers, who now face higher prices with weaker employment prospects.

"Stagflation is really a one-two punch for consumers<" said economics professor Abby Hall. "And we can think about this as like a gut punch and then taking one right to the chin."

Hall says the data is also a potential headache for the Federal Reserve, which would typically raise interest rates to curb inflation, but lower interest rates to help support a weakening jobs market.

"The Fed has a really difficult task of trying to balance these two," Hall said. "And when you have an occasion where both are rising, the policy prescription is really unclear."

The Federal Reserve will meet next week and announce its interest rate decision on Wednesday.

The family of a 17-year-old boy killed in an attack is speaking out. The victim's younger brother and sister remain hospitalized.

Port Huron police said their father, Jeff Smerer, was the attacker. He's in custody, but so far, he has not been criminally charged.

Watch Darren Cunningham's video report below: Family members speak out about father shooting 3 of his children

The siblings were shot early Thursday morning at the Glenview Gardens Apartments.

Their aunt, Victoria Frazer, stopped by the apartments to retrieve some items for the Smerer family.

"The younger boy (Bentley) is off the ventilator. He's breathing on his own. They are going to try to have him get up and walk," she explained.

Frazer, who started a Gofundme for the family, said 13-year-old Bentley suffered facial fractures.

She said Kinzley, 12, suffered injuries that are more severe.

"The daughter (Kinzely), she does have a bullet lodged in the back of her spine. And she, they're saying she's going to be paralyzed from the neck down."

Sadly, their 17-year-old brother, Kayleb, was killed.

Watch our previous coverage about the incident below: 1 kid killed, 2 others injured in shooting in Port Huron; father arrested

Police said the suspect's wife and 19-year-old son Ayden managed to stop the attack. Loved ones said there were no signs something like this would happen.

"He woke up, woke the kids up to go to school and ya know, it was a regular day and something just happened. It doesn't make sense," Frazer said.

"He was an amazing man," she described. "He was happy, outgoing."

However, they said Jeff Smerer had been having a hard time.

"Jeff was a good father. He did everything, bent over backwards for the family. Started having issues, searched out for medical help, ya know, mental help and didn't get what he needed. Seemed like he needed more support and he didn't get it," Lank Green, the Smerer's brother-in-law, explained.

Frazer said, "He had a stroke then he started having seizures after that. And that's why he ended up losing his job. I mean, he's always been a provider for his family but after that, he wasn't able to."

This year, he plead guilty to an indecent exposure incident from 2020. He was supposed to be sentenced the morning of the shooting.

His family didn't want to speak on it, but they say there is more to the story.

Smerer is expected to be arraigned on the fatal attack next Tuesday.

A local nonprofit purchased a new police dog for the Shelby Township Police Department, marking the first time the organization has been able to fund an entire K-9 addition.

Watch Jolie Sherman's video report: Nonprofit helps Shelby Township police add third K-9 to their force

Szajna-Carr For the Paws received a $20,000 grant from the Four County Community Foundation to purchase CJ, a 2-year-old Belgium Malinois, for the department.

"In our infancy of this non-profit, we never fathomed to purchase a dog," said Evette Szajna, co-founder of Szajna-Carr For the Paws.

The grant covered the $10,000 cost of purchasing CJ, $5,000 for training, and $1,300 for a bulletproof vest. The remaining funds were donated to police departments in Oakland, Lapeer, and St. Clair counties.

Officer Justin Goebel, who will be CJ's handler, gave him a special name.

"I named him in honor of a friend of mine who I lost in the line of duty Collin James Rose," Goebel said.

Sgt. Rose was a K-9 handler at Wayne State University who was shot and killed at age 26. Goebel wanted to keep his memory alive through his new partner.

RELATED STORY FROM 2016: Wayne State University police officer dies after being shot

"For the Paws has been absolutely amazing. I can't say enough about Evette and Mark. They are legitimately some of the nicest people I have ever met in my entire life," Goebel said. "I don't know if CJ would have come to be without their donation."

CJ is replacing Goebel's former K-9 partner, Niko, who was forced to retire due to a leg injury. Goebel will be putting CJ through the K-9 Academy in October, where he'll be certified in narcotics and tracking.

The community will have a chance to meet CJ at the department's open house on Saturday.

"We've been looking forward to this, yes. It's been a work in progress."

RELATED STORY: Macomb County couple's nonprofit helps fund new K9 officer for Shelby Township police Non-profit offers support for poiice K-9 units

So far, the non-profit has raised $17,000 to buy supplies and equipment for police K-9 units around the state, helping 50 police dogs across 26 departments. Their work continues as they're currently raising approximately $15,000 to purchase a police dog for Dearborn Heights and are halfway to their goal.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Belle Isle became more accessible Friday with the official opening of a new 5.8-mile trail system at Sunset Point, connecting the island to the Detroit riverfront as part of the larger Iron Belle Trail network.

The new segment represents a significant addition to the Iron Belle Trail system, which spans 2,000 miles across Michigan. Officials hope Belle Isle will serve as a launching point for the statewide trail network.

Watch Jeffrey Lindblom's video report below: Belle Isle opens new 5.8-mile trail system connecting island to Detroit riverfront

"We'd like to say it's the beginning, but I work on Belle Isle, so I'm a little biased," said Tom Bissett, Michigan Department of Natural Resources Urban District supervisor.

Bissett said Belle Isle sees 5 million yearly visitors. The new trail was developed in response to public demand for better connectivity between the island and Detroit's riverfront.

"I'm excited to turn this back over to the people and let them enjoy it in full," Bissett said.

Watch video of the ribbon cutting below: WEB EXTRA: Ribbon cutting for the Iron Belle Trail segment on Belle Isle

Cyclists and joggers who tested the new trail Friday praised both its safety features and scenic qualities.

"I think it's a critical step in Detroit's evolution," said Dwenell Mills, a bicyclist.

Kenneth Ward, also cycling the trail, appreciated the separation from vehicle traffic.

"You can really stretch out, it's scenic and you don't have to worry about automobiles," Ward said.

Homer McClarty, another cyclist, noted improvements to the surrounding facilities.

"It's cleaner, it's safer. You can actually use the bathrooms now and you don't feel like something is going to grab you when you're in the bathroom," McClarty said.

Runners also celebrated having a dedicated path around the island.

"We were thrilled to have the opportunity to run the whole loop and not have to run in the road anymore," said Jim Meissner, a jogger.

Marilyn Winningham added that the trail allows for a more focused experience.

"You don't have to think about much else instead of getting around the island," Winningham said.

David Egner, president and CEO of the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation, which the trail is named after, emphasized the project's broader impact on community connection.

"This is all about connectivity today," Egner said. "Southeast Michigan is better because of what has happened on this island and this trail."

The Iron Belle Trail system is 70% complete statewide. This particular Belle Isle segment cost $10.5 million to construct.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer fatally shot a suspect who tried to evade arrest Friday in a Chicago suburb by driving his car at officers and dragging one of them, officials said.

The shooting just outside the city follows days of threats by the Trump administration to surge immigration enforcement in the nations third-largest city and less than a week into an operation labeled Midway Blitz by federal officials targeting the so-called sanctuary policies in Chicago and Illinois.

The Department of Homeland Security said in a news release that the officer was trying to arrest a man with a history of reckless driving who had entered the country illegally, but he refused officers' orders and instead drove his car at them. An ICE officer who was hit and dragged by the car felt his life was threatened and opened fire, the department said.

ICE said both the officer and the driver from the shooting in the majority Hispanic suburb of Franklin Park, about 18 miles (29 kilometers) west of Chicago, were taken to a local hospital, where the suspect was pronounced dead.

We are praying for the speedy recovery of our law enforcement officer. He followed his training, used appropriate force, and properly enforced the law to protect the public and law enforcement, Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement.

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker said he is aware of the shooting and demanded a full, factual accounting of whats happened today to ensure transparency and accountability.

Video from the scene shows police tape and traffic cones blocking off parts of the street where a large food distribution truck and gray car can be seen from a distance. Multiple law enforcement vehicles were surrounding the area.

RELATED STORY | Trump admin to ramp up immigration arrests in Chicago despite pushback from local leaders

Amid the Trump administrations immigration crackdown in Los Angeles earlier this summer, at least two people died while attempting to evade ICE a farmworker who fell from a greenhouse roof during a raid and a man struck by an SUV while running from agents outside a Home Depot store.

At a Friday news conference, immigration advocates and local officials argued that the Chicago area shooting represents how militarized immigration enforcement harms communities and demanded transparency and accountability from ICE agents involved in the shooting.

They were flanked by about two dozen protesters who chanted and banged on drums while holding a banner declaring, End Detention, Welcome Immigrants."

"The Trump deportation machine is out of control and operating with no transparency or accountability and leading to senseless harm to our communities," said Lawrence Benito, executive director of the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights.

Illinois Rep. Norma Hernandez called the shooting a tragedy and decried ICE officials' attempts to blame the man who died.

These tactics have led to the loss of life of one of our community members," Hernandez said. "He is not the first and he will unfortunately not be the last.

Chicagoans, meanwhile, have been preparing for weekend Mexican Independence Day celebrations that include parades, festivals, street parties and car caravans, despite the potential immigration crackdown.

McLaughlin said viral social media videos and activists encouraging illegal aliens to resist law enforcement have made the work of ICE officers more dangerous.

Local officials, advocates and teachers have launched citywide efforts in the past few weeks to inform people of their rights when confronted by ICE agents. On Friday, many denied encouraging people who have entered the country illegally to resist law enforcement.

We do not tell people to resist, said Jessica Vsquez, the Cook County commissioner for the 8th District, who emphasized community groups that have shared legal resources and mutual aid.

Excitement is building as the Detroit Lions prepare for their first home game of the season, welcoming the Chicago Bears to Ford Field this Sunday. At the Detroit Historical Museum, an exhibit is giving fans a free opportunity to dive into the team's 91-year history.

Watch Demetrios Sanders' video report: 'Gridiron Heroes' exhibit now open at Detroit Historical Museum

The Gridiron Heroes exhibit inside the Detroit Historical Museum showcases the Lions' journey from the earliest stages until now.

"Going all the way back to when they came to Detroit in 1934, all the way up to the present day with their most recent season in 2024," said Andrew De Windt, an exhibits associate at the Detroit Historical Museum.

Inside the exhibit, visitors can find everything Lions-related, from Hall of Fame jackets to player jerseys. The collection includes game-worn uniforms and memorabilia from legendary players.

"We have a game-worn uniform from Amon-Ra St. Brown right here, we've got Barry Sanders over here," De Windt said.

The exhibit also features 1930s helmets, tickets, and historic trophies, including a particularly significant piece from the team's championship era.

"This was the trophy awarded to the champion in the NFL back in the 1930s. The Detroit Lions won that in 1935. At that time, it was similar to the Stanley Cup, where it was a traveling trophy, and then a replica would be given to the team. This is that replica," De Windt said.

The Detroit Historical Museum made the exhibit possible through items in their own collection and valuable partnerships with the Pro Football Hall of Fame, the Detroit Lions organization, their own archives, as well as community contributions.

This weekend marks the final opportunity to visit the exhibit. To celebrate, the Detroit Historical Museum is offering free admission through Sunday while hosting giveaways.

"We have a wide variety of things that most people can't typically see," De Windt said.

Lions fan Brian Piggott, who visited the Gridiron Heroes exhibit, says it provides a nostalgic experience.

"Looking back at the old trading cards that we all had as kids, the old schedules, and the caricatures of the Lions and stuff, and just remembering some of the old players, just a lot of good memories," Piggott said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

A 16-year-old boy is recovering after being stabbed four times outside a high school football game Thursday night, prompting the evacuation of the football field and raising concerns about escalating violence at youth sporting events.

Watch Randy Wimbley's video report: Police investigating stabbing of teen outside football game

The stabbing occurred at the conclusion of the matchup between Southeastern and King high schools, just outside school property. The victim was rushed to a nearby hospital with wounds to his neck, back, and head.

"All we heard were people screaming, and they ran back, and they were like he got stabbed, and I'm like, what. You saw the boy, and he was holding his neck," said Saniyha Griffin, who witnessed the incident.

The chilling scene left many in attendance shaken as the football field was evacuated.

"I was pretty scared because I didn't know if they had any firearms or other weapons with them to try to harm everybody else," Griffin said.

"When we heard about the stabbing and everything, it was kinda horrifying. We were just trying to find out if our kids were safe," said Kathy Brown-Williams.

Detroit Police Commander Lawrence Purifoy said the incident was an intentional confrontation.

"This was at the conclusion of the game, they was just outside of the school's property. They met up to fight intentionally, and here we are," Purifoy said.

George Ward, who coached basketball at Southeastern and currently coaches at King, works with community stakeholders to prevent escalating violence. He expressed concern about the incident's broader implications.

"This is a result of adult neglect, and I hate to say it," Ward said.

Ward and community violence intervention groups are working to prevent potential retaliation.

"What we're going to try to do, there are a number of CVI groups in our city, obviously, we're going to try to get in front of this thing from a retaliation standpoint. We know what's next," Ward said.

Police are reviewing witness statements and video of the altercation to develop a suspect.

"So I would encourage anyone that has any information, those people that are in that video, they know who they are, please come forward to the Fifth Precinct and talk to us because we're going to talk to you," said Detroit Police Captain Scott Pellerito.

Purifoy emphasized the need for community intervention to address youth violence.

"The parents, our teens, our community groups, our mentors, we really need to sit down with our teens and explain to them there are other ways to resolving their differences other than fighting," Purifoy said.

Ward fears the increasing violence at youth sporting events could lead to restrictions on fans at games.

"I think the inevitability of that is right in our face," Ward said.

"You know there's always been fights; this isn't something new, but now the violence has increased. And now we're looking at a situation where we're talking about guns, we're talking about knives, and it's been repetitious," Ward said.

Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call Detroit Police or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

FDA officials are expected to claim a connection between the COVID vaccine and pediatric deaths when they brief a CDC vaccine recommendation panel next week.

According to reporting from multiple outlets citing anonymous sources, officials with the Food And Drug Administration will present data that they allege connects COVID vaccination with the deaths of at least 25 children.

Scripps News has not yet independently verified the reporting.

Officials will show the data to the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, which is preparing to develop new recommendations for COVID vaccine protocols at a meeting next week.

The CDC's vaccine recommendations will come as states, health providers and insurers all seek guidance ahead of the U.S. flu season. Some states do not allow pharmacists to administer the vaccine without the panels approval.

The information concerning child deaths is said to be drawn from the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System, a federal reporting tool for tracking side effects associated with vaccines. Doctors, patients, pharmacists and even bystanders who see reports of side effects may submit reports.

But experts warn that reports sent through the tool cannot be immediately verified for their accuracy, since such a verification requires further investigation by health experts.

FDA Commissioner Marty Makary told CNN last week that the agency would investigate reports that children had died after receiving a COVID vaccine. Makary characterized it as an "intense investigation" but did not make clear at the time when the reports were received or when the investigations began.

Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., who oversees the FDA and the CDC as the Secretary of Health and Human Services, has told Scripps News the FDA, CDC and other health agencies had made unanimous decisions to change vaccine recommendations. Other health experts dispute this claim.

RELATED STORY | RFK Jr. in interview with Scripps News: Trusting the experts is not science

In an interview with Scripps News, Kennedy questioned the effectiveness of mRNA vaccines despite overwhelming scientific research. He also warned against virus mutations and dosage control issues.

"You can't control the amount of antigen that everybody is getting," he said. "When you give a vaccine, you want to know exactly how much antigen is because some people react very, very badly and can get very, very badly injured."