Luigi Mangione watched stoically in court Monday as prosecutors played surveillance videos showing the killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson on a New York City sidewalk last year and Mangiones arrest five days later at a McDonald's in Pennsylvania.

The videos, including footage from the restaurant previously unseen by the press or the public, kicked off a hearing on Mangiones fight to bar evidence from his state murder trial, including the gun prosecutors say matches the one used in the Dec. 4, 2024, attack. Thompson was killed as he walked to a Manhattan hotel for his companys annual investor conference.

Mangione, 27, pressed a finger to his lips and a thumb to his chin as he watched footage of two police officers approaching him as he ate breakfast at the McDonalds in Altoona, Pennsylvania, about 230 miles west of Manhattan.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | State terrorism charges against Luigi Mangione dropped in health care CEO murder case

He gripped a pen in his right hand, making a fist at times, as prosecutors played a 911 call from a McDonald's manager relaying concerns from customers that Mangione looked like the suspect in Thompsons killing. The manager said she searched online for photos of the suspect and that as Mangione sat in the restaurant, she could only see his eyebrows because he was wearing a beanie and a medical face mask.

Before he was flown to New York City to face murder charges, Mangione was held under constant watch in an otherwise empty special housing unit at a Pennsylvania state prison.

A correctional officer testified that the prison wanted to keep Mangione away from other inmates and staff who might leak information about him to the media. The officer testified that the facilitys superintendent told him that the prison "did not want an Epstein-style situation, referring to Jeffrey Epsteins suicide at a Manhattan federal jail in 2019.

WATCH | Luigi Mangione reportedly suffered from back pain. What was the condition, and how is it treated?

Among the evidence Mangione's defense team wants excluded are the 9 mm handgun and a notebook in which prosecutors say he described his intent to wack a health insurance executive. Both were found in a backpack Mangione had with him when arrested.

Mangione, the Ivy League-educated scion of a wealthy Maryland family, has pleaded not guilty to state and federal murder charges. The state charges carry the possibility of life in prison, while federal prosecutors are seeking the death penalty. Neither trial has been scheduled. The next hearing in the federal case is scheduled for Jan. 9.

Defense wants to bar the gun and notebook from his trial

After getting state terrorism charges thrown out in September, Mangiones lawyers are zeroing in on what they say was unconstitutional police conduct that threatens his right to a fair trial.

They contend that the Manhattan district attorney's office should be prevented from showing the gun, notebook and other items to jurors because police didn't have a search warrant.

They also want to suppress some of Mangione's statements to police, such as when he allegedly said his name was Mark Rosario, because officers started asking questions before telling him he had a right to remain silent. Prosecutors say Mangione gave the same name while checking into a Manhattan hostel days before the killing.

The defense is also seeking to preclude statements Mangione made to law enforcement from the day of his arrest until he was moved to New York on Dec. 19. The correctional officer, Tomas Rivers, testified that Mangione talked to him about his travels to Asia, including witnessing a gang fight in Thailand, and discussed differences between private and nationalized health care.

At one point, Rivers said, Mangione asked him whether the news media was focused on him as a person or the crime that was committed. He also said Mangione told him he wanted to make a public statement.

Another correctional officer, Matthew Henry, said Mangione blurted out to him that at the time of his arrest, he had a backpack with foreign currency and a 3D-printed pistol. Mangione's lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, was incredulous at Henry's testimony that Mangione might have shared that information, unprompted.

Surveillance video showed a masked gunman shooting Thompson from behind.

Prosecutors say delay, deny and depose were written on the ammunition, mimicking a phrase used to describe how insurers avoid paying claims.

WATCH | How Luigi Mangione went from Ivy League engineer to alleged UnitedHealthcare CEO assassin

Eliminating the gun and notebook would be critical wins for Mangiones defense and major setbacks for prosecutors, depriving them a possible murder weapon and evidence they say points to motive. Prosecutors have quoted extensively from Mangiones writings in court filings, including his alleged praise for the late Unabomber" Theodore Kaczynski.

Among other things, prosecutors say, Mangione mused about rebelling against the deadly, greed fueled health insurance cartel and wrote that killing an industry executive conveys a greedy bastard that had it coming.

An officer searching the backpack found with Mangione was heard in body camera footage saying she was checking to make sure there wasnt a bomb in the bag. His lawyers argue that was an excuse designed to cover up an illegal warrantless search of the backpack.

Laws concerning how police interact with potential suspects before reading them their rights or obtaining search warrants are complex and often disputed in criminal cases.

Federal prosecutors, fighting a similar defense effort in that case, have said in court filings that police were justified in searching the backpack to make sure there were no dangerous items, and that his statements to officers were voluntary and were made before he was under arrest.

Pivotal pretrial hearing could last more than a week

Court officials say the hearing could last more than a week, meaning it would extend through Thursdays anniversary of the killing. Defense lawyer Marc Agnifilo told a judge in an unrelated matter last week that Manhattan prosecutors had indicated they could call more than two dozen witnesses.

Mangione was allowed to wear normal clothing to court instead of a jail uniform. He entered the courtroom Monday in a gray suit and a button-down shirt with a checkered or tattersall pattern. Court officers removed his handcuffs to allow him to take notes.

NYPD Sgt. Chris McLaughlin testified about efforts to disseminate surveillance images of the suspect to news outlets and on social media in the hours and days after the shooting.

To illustrate the breadth of news coverage during the five-day search for the shooter, prosecutors played a surveillance video of the shooting, footage of police divers searching a pond in Central Park and Fox News clips that included images of the suspected shooter distributed by police.

A few dozen Mangione supporters watched the hearing from the back of the courtroom. One wore a green T-shirt that said: Without a warrant, its not a search, its a violation. Another woman held a doll of the Luigi video game character and had a smaller figurine of him clipped to her purse.

Court continued Monday for the four people charged in the death of a 5-year-old boy who was killed in a hyperbaric chamber explosion in Troy earlier this year.

The preliminary hearing picked back up from September.

Watch Carli Petrus' video report below: Tense say in court during hearing in hyperbaric chamber explosion hearing

Prosecutors say the death of 5-year-old Thomas Cooper at The Oxford Center was preventable.

All four people being charged were present as the preliminary hearing continued after a two-month break. Tamela Peterson, the CEO of The Oxford Center; Gary Marken, the manager; Aleta Moffitt, the operator of the machine; and Jeffrey Mosteller, the safety director have all been charged in connection with Thomas death.

Watch our previous coverage of the second day of the hearing when a hyperbaric chamber expert testified: Expert calls out The Oxford Center, alleges facility bucked industry standards

He was killed when the hyperbaric chamber he was receiving treatment in exploded on Jan. 31, 2025.

Prosecutors called on their third witness, Andrew Melnyczenko, the technical and safety director of hyperbaric medicine for the Mayo Clinic.

"About 40 minutes passed from the time the chamber was pressurized to the moment where a flame was seen," said Melnyczenko, who said he reviewed video of the tragic incident.

"What I observed was that Thomas was moving about in the chamber from left to right and then up and down the gurney and in doing so, he exposed a portion of the mattress his left knee moved toward the mattress and that's where the flame was seen."

Melnyczenko testified that industry standard safety protocols were not followed by The Oxford Center in this case.

Watch the first day of the hearing when a former employee testified below: Ex-employee reveals safety concerns in preliminary hearing

The prosecution asked Melnyczenko if he saw that Thomas was not wearing a grounding strap before the explosion.

"That's correct," Melnyczenko responded.

The preliminary hearing continues Tuesday.

U.S. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) said Monday he will not be silenced or intimidated by the Trump administrations investigation into him over a video urging military members to ignore what Democratic lawmakers describe as unlawful orders.

Donald Trump has had one political play: bullying his opponents into silence, Kelly said at a press conference. He did it as a failed casino owner who bankrupted his properties and screwed over his contractors. He did it as a reality TV host known for firing people. And hes done it as president, who tries every day to intimidate people with no regard for the rights or well-being of the American people.

"I'll say this for the guy, while he's never seemed to do much right, for most of Donald Trump's career, bullying has worked out for him," Kelly added. "But not now, because I won't let it happen."

WATCH | Sen. Kelly accuses Trump of 'bullying' him into silence

Sen. Kelly accuses Trump of 'bullying' him into silence

Kelly's comments come a week after the Pentagon announced it had opened an investigation into him for serious allegations of misconduct. Officials did not say what the allegations involve.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | Pentagon opens investigation into Sen. Mark Kelly over misconduct allegations

The announcement followed the release of a video featuring Kelly and other Democrats, who urged service members to refuse unlawful orders after expressing concerns over U.S. military strikes on boats suspected of smuggling drugs in the Caribbean. The message did not cite specific examples or say where such orders might originate.

Republicans, including President Donald Trump, sharply criticized the video, accusing the lawmakers of encouraging the military to defy the commander in chief.

This is really bad, and Dangerous to our Country. Their words cannot be allowed to stand. SEDITIOUS BEHAVIOR FROM TRAITORS!!! LOCK THEM UP??? Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.

Kelly, a former Navy pilot and NASA astronaut elected to the Senate in 2020, said the investigation would not deter him from fulfilling his duties. Under the Uniform Code of Military Justice, Kelly could be recalled to active duty for a possible court-martial or face administrative action.

ADDITIONAL REPORTING | White House says Trump wasn't calling for executions after condemning Democrats' military video

Thousands of visitors flocked to The Henry Ford museum in Dearborn on Monday to commemorate the 70th anniversary of Rosa Parks' historic act of defiance that sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

The museum offered free admission to honor the civil rights icon, drawing nearly 2,000 people who came to see the actual bus where Parks refused to give up her seat to a white passenger on Dec. 1, 1955.

Watch Evan Sery's video report below: Commemorating 70 years since Rose Parks' defiant act, Henry Ford Museum offers free admission

"It made me want to cry a little bit, cause this is Black history," said Alijah Cheatham, a first-time visitor to the museum.

Cheatham was most excited to touch and be inside the Rosa Parks bus during his visit.

"Most people don't get to see this is the actual bus where she sat and got arrested in 1955, most people don't know... we wouldn't be here if it wasn't for her," Cheatham said.

The free admission day was unusual for the museum, which typically charges visitors and sees about 2,500 people on average weekend days during this time of year.

"It is very rare for us to actually have a free admission day," said Cynthia Jones, director of museum experiences, engagements and exhibitions at The Henry Ford.

Jones said the decision to waive admission fees for this milestone anniversary was obvious.

"We know the people who lived this history, that lived the Civil Rights Movement and we don't want that history to be lost, their stories to be lost," Jones said.

Dr. Brenda McGadney, a frequent visitor to The Henry Ford, praised the museum's decision to prioritize education over revenue.

"So proud of this museum that's made a decision that on this day, rather than bringing in money to the museum, they're bringing in people to the museum," McGadney said.

McGadney said seeing the bus never gets old and revealed she once saw Parks in person but chose to respect her privacy rather than approach her.

"Thank you, thank you, thank you," McGadney said when asked what she would've said to Parks.

On this special day, visitors were not allowed to sit in Parks' seat. Instead, the seat was occupied by a portrait of the late civil rights icon and a bouquet of roses.

For Cheatham, the visit held special significance as a new father to a 2-month-old son.

"I want to teach him history, who sat here before us, the presidents, more specifically Rosa Parks, the lady that did not get off the bus," Cheatham 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.

Efforts are underway to save a beloved community center in Birmingham that has served residents for decades with various activities and programs.

Watch Jolie Sherman's video report: New efforts to save The Community House in Birmingham

The Community House, which went up for sale last month and announced operations would conclude on June 30, 2026, now faces a legal challenge from the city of Birmingham.

The city filed a lawsuit on Friday, November 25, claiming that the sale of The Community House violates its deed restrictions, which require the building to operate as a community center.

"It was just this hub of activity, and even if you didn't do anything there, it was there," said Mary Ryan Taras, a Birmingham resident.

Taras is a longtime Birmingham resident who has lived in the city for more than 50 years and has fond memories of The Community House.

"It just was a central piece of downtown Birmingham," Taras said.

Next year, The Community House will become the Birmingham Area Community Foundation, focused on grant-making and supporting local nonprofits.

PREVIOUS STORY: Historic Birmingham Community House to close, leaving events and childcare in limbo The Community House closing in Birmingham

"Our commitment is to our founding purpose of a nonprofit organization, which is to get back to those in need, and it's not sustainable for us to maintain this building any longer," said Alison Gaudreau, president of The Community House Association. "We've encouraged the city to follow the same process that we've asked of any of the other interested parties to let us know if they're interested in making an offer, with their intended use for the building, would be, and frankly, they responded by filing a lawsuit."

Birmingham Mayor Clinton Baller declined a request for an interview but confirmed the city is seeking "declaratory and injunctive relief" to enforce the property's 1930 deed of trust, along with a 1989 order by Oakland County Probate Court, which requires the property to be held exclusively as a community center.

The city also filed a temporary restraining order (TRO) to prohibit The Community House from making a sale.

"I think there's some assumptions that have been made about what will happen to the building. I hear people say things like it'll be torn down, and condos will be built, and nothing could be further from the truth," Gaudreau said.

She says their attorneys are looking through the city's complaint.

"We will not sell it to somebody that has that intent, so we are only talking to charitable organizations, nonprofit organizations whose intent is to maintain the building for community use," Gaudreau 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 federal immigration crackdown branded Operation Swamp Sweep is set to begin this week, with 250 Border Patrol agents expected to be deployed to New Orleans and Mississippi. The mission is part of President Donald Trumps broader immigration enforcement strategy.

Similar operations have already rolled out in cities such as Chicago, Los Angeles and Charlotte, North Carolina. Unlike those locations, Louisianas Republican governor is welcoming the federal involvement.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | DHS plans to deploy 250 border agents to Louisiana in major immigration sweep, AP sources say

Officials say the operation aims to arrest about 5,000 people in southeast Louisiana and Mississippi. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has confirmed at least four arrests so far in Gretna, Louisiana.

In an interview with Scripps News, Jordan Bridges, organizing director for the New Orleans Workers Center for Racial Justice, expressed concern about the impact on the citys immigrant community.

New Orleans is a beautiful city and that has a history of resistance, Bridges said. And so, I'm seeing exactly that.

I can tell you that groups are organizing, he added. I can tell you that individuals that are directly impacted are organizing.

Louisiana State Rep. Matthew Willard said Border Patrol has not been forthcoming with local officials about operational details.

"Our police chief here in the city of New Orleans has had conversations with Border Patrol. The information that has been provided is not reassuring and not really many details being provided, Willard said. So we're really in the dark.

RELATED STORY | Immigrant population in the US has started to decline for the first time in years

New Orleans Mayor-elect Helena Moreno shared legal resources on Instagram and urged residents to know their rights.

My first priority is keeping our community safe, Moreno wrote. The reports of due process violations and potential abuses in other cities are concerning. I want our community to be aware and informed of the protections available under law. We must demand accountability and that peoples rights are not violated.

The Department of Homeland Security told Scripps News that it enforces federal laws daily but declined to discuss specifics of future or ongoing operations. It remains unclear how long Operation Swamp Sweep will last.

Small businesses in downtown Howell are on high alert after a new wave of fake cash started hitting registers. Several shops have been impacted and say the counterfeit bills are affecting their bottom line as the holiday season ramps up.

Watch Peter Maxwell's video report: Small businesses in downtown Howell targeted by counterfeit cash scheme

I spoke with two small business owners who say they're keeping their guard up against the fraudulent currency.

M Street Bakery tells me they're a victim of counterfeit cash. The fake $100 bill wasn't noticed until they went to deposit it at the bank. They're hoping police catch the deceitful shoppers sooner rather than later.

Emily Mazaris, owner of M Street Bakery Co., described the impact on local businesses.

"It hurts small businesses. It hurts, really, any business when something like that happens," Mazaris said.

Several local shops in downtown Howell have been seeing a trend of counterfeit cash coming into their stores.

"Whether they bought a $3 item and got $97 real dollars back, or they bought $100 worth of real items. We still lose out in the end," Mazaris said.

Mazaris told me the situation is upsetting, and they are now taking precautions when accepting cash.

"We have chosen to just not accept anymore of the old-style $100 bills for right now," Mazaris said.

Just around the corner at the sandwich shop, The Crunchy Pickle, they've encountered the same problem.

Andrea Sydor, owner of Crunchy Pickle, said her staff was deeply affected by the incident.

"Our staff was devastated," Sydor said.

Sydor and her husband own the sandwich shop. Despite being approached three times, they only fell victim once.

"These bills do pass the marker test. We do use markers on $100 bills, but it does pass it, and we kind of noticed later that clearly the bill was a fake," Sydor said.

Sydor said the person only ordered something small off the menu.

"We're preparing it. They walk out with the change. They're ordering something small off the menu, and they never come back for their order," Sydor said.

There are three ways you can spot a fake bill: feel the bill, tilt the note, check with light, or take the bill to a local bank.

"We are aware of the counterfeiting activity, but cannot comment on an ongoing investigation. If you suspect counterfeit money, do not spend it, and report it to your local police, Livingston County sheriff's office, or the local U.S. Secret Service field office," said Howell Police Chief Michael Dunn.

Sydor has a message for the people using these counterfeit bills.

"I hope they do get caught and they learn the lesson of what that means to not only small businesses and this community as well, and all of our staff members," Sydor 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.

The criminal case against a controversial Melvindale police lieutenant accused of multiple felonies was bound over for trial Monday.

Watch Ross Jones' video report: Criminal cases against controversial Melvindale lieutenant are bound over

The charges stem from three separate police incidents involving Lieutenant Matthew Furman that investigations by 7 News Detroit first revealed.

The first incident, occurring during the summer of 2024, involved Drakkar Williams, a man Furman stopped for driving around traffic barricades.

Williams license was suspended, and his vehicle was not insured. After Williams refused to provide his name, Furman moved to arrest him.

While his partner held Williams outside the car, Furman began to use his Taser on him repeatedly.

PREVIOUS REPORT: Former Melvindale Chief alleges Police Sgt. Matthew Furman 'engaged in repeated acts of police brutality' Former Melvindale Chief alleges Police Sgt. Matthew Furman 'engaged in repeated acts of police brutality'

Prosecutors say Furman kicked Williams in the leg and deployed his taser again, striking him in the back.

Williams took the stand on Monday.

What was going through your mind when you were initially tased? asked Asst. Wayne County Prosecutor Matthew Makepeace.

I dont want to die, Williams replied.

Furman said Williams was uncooperative and that he was fearful he could have been carrying a weapon. After he was handcuffed, Furman would be seen arguing with Williams again.

According to the prosecutor, medics were called to the scene to treat Williams for his injuries. While being treated, prosecutors say the two began to argue and that Officer Furman grabbed Williams by his shirt and by his hair and pulled him against the fire truck.

What we see is not a police officer acting under the color of law or acting in accordance with his duties, Makepeace said, but acting as someone who willingly thinks they can do whatever they want on any given traffic stop to whomever they want.

PREVIOUS REPORT: Controversial Melvindale lieutenant fends off claim of excessive force involving Taser Controversial Melvindale lieutenant fends off claim of excessive force involving Taser

Testifying for the prosecution today was Furmans fellow officer, Lieutenant Humayun Rahman, who responded to the scene the day Williams was stopped.

Asked why he didnt pull Williams hair, as Furman did, Rahman responded: I didnt find there was any need for it.

Also testifying Monday was Alica Cook, who was sitting in a parked car, waiting to drop off her 11-year-old last year at cheerleading practice when Furman noticed her vehicles insurance had lapsed.

Cook said she was frightened by Furmans combative attitude, refusing his commands to get out of the vehicle. When Cook did not step out of her vehicle, Furman would eventually use his Taser on her.

I didnt understand why he pulled the Taser, Cook testified. I didnt have any weapons in my hands, theres two children in the car. I informed him I just had surgery. I wasnt going to go anywhere.

Under cross-examination, Cook admitted she was not cooperative with Furmans orders.

You understood he told you to turn your car off, correct? asked defense attorney Dennis Whittie.

Right, Cook said.

And he did it three times? Whittie asked.

Yes, Cook replied.

Also taking the stand Monday was Furmans former deputy chief, Nick Martinez.

He admitted that the department didnt investigate all of the cases Furman is now charged over, but that he looked into the Williams case.

I found there was policy violations in that case, and I turned it over to the chief, he testified.

But Martinez, who has since left the department, said he didnt remember what the violations were.

Furmans attorney argued that was because Furmans conduct was justified.

You may sit there and say I dont like how Lieutenant Furman talks, Whittie said. Hell, you may say hes a real ass. You may say that, and I understand that. But that doesnt make it criminal. That doesnt get us probable cause in this case.

But Judge Sam Salamy disagreed, ultimately binding the cases over to Wayne Circuit Court.

The other charges against Furman stem from a 2021 police chase that 7 News reported on earlier this year. The suspect had stolen a vehicle, police said, after striking an officer. After his vehicle crashed, the man fled on foot before officers surrounded him.

As officers tried to subdue the man, a Dearborn officers body cam caught Furman repeatedly stomping on the mans leg. Another can be heard warning that cameras are rolling.

The Dearborn officer reported Furmans actions to his supervisor. Furman said the man was resisting, and he used the stomps as a form of pain compliance. He was not disciplined by his department but was charged by Worthy Thursday.

In that case, Furman has been charged with misconduct in office and assault and battery.

Contact 7 Investigator Ross Jones at ross.jones@wxyz.com or at (248) 827-9466.

A father was found shot and killed while working his job salting roads in Pontiac on Saturday evening, and police say the person accused of pulling the trigger is a relative.

Watch Randy Wimbley's full report: Father shot and killed by relative while salting roads in Pontiac, police say

Antonio Craig Sr. was gunned down while working outside an apartment complex on Karen Court and Hopkins Avenue in Pontiac Saturday evening, according to the Oakland County Sheriff's Office. The suspect was arrested just hours later in a restaurant parking lot in Waterford Township, only a few miles away.

Craig's children, Ashlee Craig and Antonio Craig Jr., are still processing the devastating loss of their father, who they describe as the rock of their family.

"It was the worst feeling ever. And it just keeps replaying back in my head," Ashlee Craig said.

Antonio Craig Jr. said he sensed something was wrong when his father didn't answer his phone.

"I was calling his phone for hours. My dad, like, never not answer his phone, and if he do, he, like, calls or texts you right back," he said.

Their fears were confirmed when Ashlee saw their father's work truck in a Facebook Live stream. She rushed to the scene and found her father's body on the ground outside his truck.

"It was like my heart caved in. I couldn't breathe. Like, my world was just spinning. I just kept on asking, 'Can I hold him? Can I just hold him?" she said.

WEB EXTRA: Ashlee Craig talks about her father WEB EXTRA: Ashlee Craig talks about her father

Carol Cooper, who has lived in the apartment complex for nearly 30 years, was shaken by the violence.

"We were all scared and shook up. Just didn't believe it. We couldn't believe it, that that happened," Cooper said. "And the guy, he was a really good guy too."

The Craig family says Antonio Sr. was devoted to his children and raised their two siblings, who weren't even his biological children.

"My dad did everything in his power to make sure we were good. We have two siblings that's not even his kids, and he raised them since they was a baby, you know?" Antonio Jr. said.

The children describe their father as someone who provided comfort and strength during difficult times.

"He was always there to comfort, letting you know it's going to be okay. This is not the end of it. God always got the last say so, so you get up and be stronger. You move. You move forward," Ashlee said.

Now facing life without their father, the family has a message for the person responsible.

"Why? Why? Why? When he didn't do nothing but love you," Ashlee said.

The suspect is being held at the Oakland County jail and is expected to be charged Tuesday. The name of the suspect has not been released because formal charges have not yet been filed.

The Craig family says they must now move forward together, staying strong for their father.

"We just gotta stay whole for my daddy. Because I know that's all he wants," Ashlee 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.

The Detroit Zoo is celebrating new additions this holiday season: three healthy cubs.

Amirah, a 9-year-old African lioness, gave birth on Nov. 23 and Nov. 24, the zoo said. Zoo officials say Amirah is a first-time mom and has been calm, attentive and nurturing as shes been bonding closely with her babies in a cozy, quiet den.

Amirah had a fourth cub who did not survive after being born significantly later than the rest.

While this is a natural part of life for many wild species, we remain grateful that Amirah and her three cubs are doing well, the zoo said.

According to the zoo, African lions are endangered and at risk of extinction in some regions due to habitat loss, declining prey, disease and human-wildlife conflict.

Welcoming these cubs is not only heartwarming its a meaningful milestone in the Detroit Zoos commitment to conservation and the future of this iconic species, the zoo said.

Amirah and the cubs will stay in their den and out of public view as they continue to grow.

The rest of the pride dad Kalu and aunt Asha may or may not choose to spend time in their outdoor habitat during this period. We anticipate the cubs will be visible to guests in a few months, once theyre more mobile and ready to explore larger spaces, the zoo said.

The White House confirmed there was a second strike on a boat it alleges was trafficking narcotics in international waters back in September and is defending the decision.

The comment follows a Washington Post report alleging that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered forces to kill everyone on the boats, leading to a second strike that killed survivors of the initial attack.

RELATED STORY | US strikes Caribbean boat, bringing death toll in alleged anti-drug effort to 70

The White House says the order for the specific strike in September came from Adm. Frank Mitch Bradley, not directly from Hegseth. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt maintained that the admiral acted within his authority and that the follow-up strike was lawful.

"Admiral Bradley worked well within his authority and the law. He directed the engagement to ensure the boat was destroyed and the threat of narco terrorists to the United States was completely eliminated," Leavitt said.

RELATED STORY | Trump, Hegseth tell generals 'era of politically correct' leadership ends now

Lawmakers have questioned the second strike, concerned it could violate international law. The Senate and House Armed Services committees have both released statements saying they will probe the boat strike.

The Committee is aware of recent news reports and the Department of Defenses initial response regarding alleged follow-on strikes on suspected narcotics vessels in the SOUTHCOM area of responsibility. The Committee has directed inquiries to the Department, and we will be conducting vigorous oversight to determine the facts related to these circumstances, a joint statement from Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Sen. Jack Reed said.

Leavitt said Hegseth spoke with congressional members over the weekend, rejecting the Washington Post's reporting.

In todays Health Alert, a fast-moving stomach bug is spreading as the holiday season gets underway.  New CDC data shows norovirus cases have risen in recent weeks. 

Cases of fast-moving stomach bug norovirus rise across U.S.

Norovirus can be a nasty bug it inflames the stomach and intestines. Its the leading cause of vomiting, diarrhea, and foodborne illness in the U.S.

Now, as of the middle of November, nearly 14% of tests were coming back positive for norovirus. Thats more than double what we saw three months ago, when positivity was about 6%. This data comes from the CDC, which collects reports from labs, hospitals, and health departments across the country.

But its not just the CDC seeing this trend. Data from WastewaterSCAN shows norovirus is rising across the US, especially in states like Louisiana, Indiana, and here in Michigan, too.

Is this expected? Yes. Norovirus usually peaks between November and April particularly as we move into the busy holiday season.

Norovirus is incredibly contagious. You can get it from direct contact with someone whos sick, by eating or drinking contaminated food, or touching a contaminated surface and then touching your mouth.

And heres something people dont always know norovirus can still spread for two weeks or longer after a person feels better. So now, to protect yourself while youre shopping, traveling, and gathering for the holidays:

Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly with soap and water dont use hand sanitizer by itself as it isnt very effective against this virus. Clean and disinfect common surfaces, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. Wash produce and cook shellfish thoroughly.

But if you do get sick, there is no specific medication for norovirus. So its important to drink plenty of liquids and watch older adults, young children, and anyone with a weakened immune system, as theyre at higher risk for dehydration.

Symptoms of dehydration can include less frequent urination, dry mouth or throat, and dizziness when standing. In children, look for tearless crying or being unusually sleepy or fussy.

Every year, the virus causes over 100,000 hospitalizations and around 900 deaths. Those most likely to die are people aged 65 and older. But usually, people will feel much better between one and three days.

No one wants a stomach bug this holiday season. Taking precautions can help lower your risk and slow the spread of norovirus through our communities.

Whamawhatta?

"Whamageddon" is a game played during the Christmas season where the player has to go from midnight local time on Dec.1 through 11:59 p.m. on Christmas Eve without listening to "Last Christmas" by Wham!.

If the player hears the original 1984 album version of the song between those dates, they are out of the game.

Once eliminated, they have to post "#Whamageddon" on social media to indicate that they are no longer in the game

The only exception to the rule is listening to a remix or cover version of the original song and there are hundreds of those out there.

RELATED STORY | Melania Trump's White House holiday decor for her first year back has a heartwarming theme

The creators of the game said it's about survival, not a battle, so don't try to set up your friends or family to get them "whammed" unexpectedly.

The viral game originated with a group of friends referred to as the "Whamfathers" in Europe. The game has grown in popularity every year, even inspiring the originators to create "Whamageddon" merch.

If "Last Christmas" just so happens to be your favorite song and you can't live without it, why not try thinking of another holiday ballad to play the game with among your friends and family?

RELATED STORY | From Harry Potter to 'Atomic Habits': Holiday book gift trends for 2025

The Afghan man accused of shooting two National Guard members blocks from the White House had been unraveling for years, unable to hold a job and flipping between long, lightless stretches of isolation and taking sudden weekslong cross-country drives. Rahmanullah Lakanwal's behavior deteriorated so sharply that a community advocate reached out to a refugee organization for help, fearing he was becoming suicidal.

Emails obtained by The Associated Press reveal mounting warnings about the asylum-seeker whose erratic conduct raised alarms long before the attack that jolted the nation's capital on Wednesday, the eve of Thanksgiving. The previously unreported concerns offer the clearest picture yet of how he was struggling in his new life in the United States.

Even so, when the community member who works with Afghan families in Washington state saw on the news that Lakanwal was named as the suspect in the attack, they said they were stunned, unable to square the violence with the memory of seeing Lakanwal play with his young sons. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity to share undisclosed details while cooperating with the FBI in its investigation.

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West Virginia National Guard Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, was killed in the shooting, and Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, was critically wounded. Lakanwal, 29, has been charged with first-degree murder.

In Afghanistan, Lakanwal worked in a special Afghan Army unit known as a Zero Unit. The units were backed by the CIA. He entered the United States in 2021 through Operation Allies Welcome, a program that evacuated and resettled tens of thousands of Afghans after the American withdrawal. Many had worked alongside U.S. troops and diplomats.

As investigators work to determine a motive, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem said Sunday on NBC's Meet the Press that officials believe he was radicalized since hes been here in this country. We do believe it was through connections in his home community and state and were going to continue to talk to those who interacted with him, who were his family members. She offered no additional information to support her statement.

Lakanwal resettled with his wife and their five sons, all under the age of 12, in Bellingham, Washington, but struggled, according to the community member, who shared emails that had been sent to the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants, a nonprofit group that provides services to refugees.

"Rahmanullah has not been functional as a person, father and provider since March of last year, 03/2023. He quit his job that month, and his behavior has changed greatly, the person wrote in a January 2024 email.

The emails described a man who was struggling to assimilate, unable to hold a steady job or commit to his English courses while he alternated between periods of dark isolation and reckless travel." Sometimes, he spent weeks in his darkened room, not speaking to anyone, not even his wife or older kids. At one point in 2023, the family faced eviction after months of not paying rent.

The community member, in an interview, spoke of becoming worried that Lakanwal was so depressed that he would end up harming himself. But the community member did not see any indication that Lakanwal would commit violence against another person.

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Lakanwals family members often resorted to sending his toddler sons into his room to bring him the phone or messages because he would not respond to anyone else, one email stated. A couple of times, when his wife left him with the kids for a week to travel to visit relatives, the children would not be bathed, their clothes would not be changed, and they would not eat well. Their school raised concerns about the situation.

But then, there were interim weeks where Lakanwal would try to make amends and do the right things, according to the email, reengaging with the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services as was mandated by the terms of his entry into the U.S.

But that has quickly evolved into manic episodes for one or two weeks at a time, where he will take off in the family car, and drive nonstop," the email outlined. Once, he went to Chicago, and another time, to Arizona.

Jeanine Pirro, the U.S. attorney in the District of Columbia, said this past week that Lakanwal drove across the country from Bellingham, which is about 80 miles (130 kilometers) north of Seattle, to the nation's capital.

In response to the two emails, the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants or USCRI, visited Bellingham a few weeks later in March 2024 and attempted to make contact with Lakanwal and his family, according to the community member, who, after not receiving any updates, was left with the impression that Lakanwal refused their assistance.

A request for comment and clarification from USCRI was not immediately returned.

President Donald Trumps doctor has released a memo explaining why an MRI was performed on the 79-year-old during his annual physical exam in October.

The memo says men in the presidents age group benefit from a thorough evaluation of cardiovascular and abdominal health.

It adds that the imaging showed Trump is in excellent cardiovascular condition.

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"President Trump's cardiovascular imaging is perfectly normal," Dr. Sean Barbabella said. "There is no evidence of arterial narrowing impairing blood flow or abnormalities in the heart or major vessels. The heart chambers are normal in size, the vessel walls appear smooth and healthy. There are no signs of inflammation, or clotting."

Barbabella also said the presidents abdominal imaging is perfectly normal.

Trump promised to release the results of his MRI when questioned by reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday. However, he said he had no idea what part of the body was imaged, noting it wasnt his brain.

"It wasnt the brain because I took a cognitive test and I aced it," he said.

A Pontiac mother accused of abandoning her three children for years pleaded no contest to Welfare Fraud on Monday, according to the Oakland County Prosecutor.

Kelli Bryant, 34, faces three counts of First Degree Child Abuse, with the case moving forward. She still faces trial in the abuse cases, with no sentencing agreement or offer of leniency from the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office reached

On Feb. 14, Oakland County sheriffs detectives were horrified to find three children, ages 12, 13 and 15, living in squalor and abandoned in a Pontiac home for four to five years.

"Id never smelt a home that smelled that bad without a decomposing body present," a detective said this past winter.

If convicted, Bryant faces life in prison, with another court appearance scheduled for next month.

The resolution of the Welfare Fraud charges in no way impacts the case against Kelli Bryant on the more serious allegations of Child Abuse, said Prosecutor Karen McDonald via press release. We fully intend to hold her accountable for the abuse these children suffered because of her alleged neglect.

Watch our previous coverage 'I sacrificed my children.' Mom in Pontiac child abandonment case bound over for trial Pontiac mother arrested after abandoning children in home for 4-5 years Mom in Pontiac abandonment case gets $250M bond on child abuse charges Crews begin cleaning out home where 3 Pontiac kids were left abandoned for years Mom in Pontiac abandonment case facing first-degree child abuse charges

Melania Trump on Monday unveiled the White House holiday decorations and her theme is "Home Is Where the Heart Is," her first since she resumed the role of first lady.

Her decor also nods to next year's 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776 and the founding of the United States of America.

In a change this year because the East Wing was torn down, the official White House Christmas tree, which is always on display in the Blue Room, also honors Gold Star families, those who lost a member during active-duty military service.

That tree typically was in the East Wing and was the first one visitors saw after they entered through those doors, but the building and a covered walkway, or colonnade, connecting it to the White House, were demolished by President Donald Trump in October as part of his plan to erect a large ballroom.

The East Room is decorated in patriotic red, white and blue and national symbols, including golden eagle tree toppers, to highlight the coming America250 national celebration. Trees are also adorned with stars, roses and oak leaves.

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A statement issued by the White House said Christmas is a time to celebrate what makes the U.S. exceptional and that, while every home has its own traditions, shared values unite Americans.

"In every community, we are lifted by simple acts of kindness that reflect the enduring American spirit of generosity, patriotism, and gratitude," the statement said. "These moments remind us that the heart of America is strong and that Home Is Where The Heart Is."

The first lady selected every detail of the decor, the White House said. Planning for the holidays starts months in advance.

Public tours of the White House were suspended a few months ago because of the ballroom construction, but they are set to resume Tuesday with an updated route limited to the State Floor, the first lady's office announced in October. The State Floor includes the East Room; the Green, Blue and Red Rooms; the State Dining Room; the Cross Hall; and the Grand Foyer.

Tens of thousands of visitors are expected for holiday tours, receptions and parties this month. Visitors will now enter the White House through the North Portico doors on Pennsylvania Avenue, using a new, semi-permanent walkway and entrance.

The Library and the Vermeil and China Rooms on the Ground Floor were cut from the updated tour route because of the construction.

A small army of volunteer decorators and others helped deck the halls of the Executive Mansion using 75 wreaths, 51 Christmas trees, more than 700 feet of garland, more than 2,000 strands of lights, over 25,000 feet of ribbon, over 2,800 gold stars, more than 10,000 butterflies and 120 pounds of gingerbread.

Most of the work was done after the Trumps decamped to their home in Palm Beach, Florida, on Nov. 25 for the Thanksgiving holiday. They returned to the White House on Sunday.

The official White House Christmas tree in the Blue Room is decorated with gold stars honoring families that have endured the ultimate sacrifice due to military service. The official tree traditionally recognizes each state and territory and this year's tree is decorated with ornaments showcasing the official bird and flower of each.

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The Green Room celebrates family fun, featuring portraits of the first and the current presidents, George Washington and Donald Trump, respectively, each made using more than 6,000 Lego puzzle pieces.

Thousands of butterflies decorate the Red Room and its tree in a celebration of young people and tribute to Melania Trump's Fostering the Future initiative , which is part of her Be Best child-focused initiative, to support people who have been in foster care.

The gingerbread White House on display in the State Dining Room shows off the mansion's South Portico and provides a glimpse into the Yellow Oval Room in the private living quarters on the second floor as it is currently decorated.

The first lady's signature Christmas wreaths with red bows adorn the exterior windows of the White House.

During the first Trump administration, Melania Trump was secretly recorded in 2018 as she complained, among other things, about performing traditional first lady duties, such as preparing for Christmas. The tapes were made by Stephanie Winston Wolkoff, a former friend and senior adviser to the first lady, who wrote a book about their relationship and shared the tapes with CNN, which broadcast them.

As packages pile up on doorsteps across the country, criminals are taking advantage of the busy delivery season by sending convincing fake texts, emails and even making in-person visits, demanding payment for packages that were never ordered.

Watch: A woman was almost scammed by a fake courier

Fake texts to fake couriers: The holiday delivery scam targeting shoppers

A Maryland woman, who asked to be identified only as Renee, experienced this scam firsthand when a fake courier appeared at her home claiming to have an Amazon package for her.

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"A man knocked on the door and my fianc answered. And he said he had a package for me, Amazon package, and I said, Really? So, you know, I thought, what's coming? I didn't order anything. Who sent me something?" Renee said.

The box had an Amazon label, but the courier's demand for payment raised immediate red flags.

"He said, $9.28. I said, 'Wow, I didn't know they had COD, but no, I didn't order anything. And my fiance looked at the package. My name was on it and my address, and I told him, well, I didn't order anything and I don't remember anyone telling me they were sending me anything, so you're going to have to take that back. I'm not going to pay for that. And he just took off," Renee said.

After the suspicious encounter, Renee contacted police and filed a report. She also called Amazon, which confirmed they don't collect payment at the door in the United States.

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An Amazon spokesperson said scammers who attempt to impersonate workers put consumers at risk, and encouraged them to report suspected scams.

Clay Campbell, director of marketing for the Better Business Bureau of Greater Maryland, said theres another scam people should watch for this season: fake delayed-package notifications that ask for extra fee payments.

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"A delayed package, if you get a notification saying you need to cover an extra fee that's typically a big red flag, really common scam," Campbell said.

Campbell advises consumers to take a breath, pause and go directly to the shipping provider with tracking information.

To stay organized during the busy holiday shipping season, experts recommend saving all order confirmation emails in a separate folder. If you receive a delivery message you're unsure about, you can reference the original email and verify tracking information directly from the retailer. USPS also offers Informed Delivery, a free service customers can use to get email notifications of what mail they can expect to receive and when.

This story was reported on-air by Mallory Sofastaii at the Scripps News Group station in Baltimore 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.

The Transportation Security Administration will charge passengers $45 for traveling without a Real ID or passport starting Feb. 1, marking a significant increase from the initially announced $18 fee.

The agency has said the fee would help cover costs associated with enhanced screenings, including software and staffing. It would also fund technology used to verify passengers biographic and biometric information.

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"This fee ensures the cost to cover verification of an insufficient ID will come from the traveler, not the taxpayer," said Adam Stahl, senior official performing the duties of deputy administrator for the agency. "The security of the traveling public is our top priority, so we urge all travelers to get a REAL ID or other acceptable form of ID as soon as possible to avoid delays and potentially miss flights

Officials said flyers can pay the fee online before arriving at security checkpoints and will receive an email confirmation to present to TSA officers. Passengers who don't pay in advance will be removed from the security line to complete a verification process that could take up to 30 minutes.

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According to the TSA, more than 94% of passengers use their REAL ID or other acceptable forms of identification.

Real ID requirements have been in effect since May, requiring travelers to present either a Real ID-compliant driver's license, enhanced driver's license, or acceptable alternative such as a passport for domestic flights.

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