President Donald Trump singled out Brazil for import taxes of 50% on Wednesday for its treatment of its former president, Jair Bolsonaro, showing that personal grudges rather than simple economics are a driving force in the U.S. leader's use of tariffs.

Trump avoided his standard form letter with Brazil, specifically tying his tariffs to the trial of Bolsonaro, who is charged with trying to overturn his 2022 election loss. Trump has described Bolsonaro as a friend and hosted the former Brazilian president at his Mar-a-Lago resort when both were in power in 2020.

This Trial should not be taking place, Trump wrote in the letter posted on Truth Social. It is a Witch Hunt that should end IMMEDIATELY!

There is a sense of kinship as Trump was indicted in 2023 for his efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 U.S. presidential election. The U.S. president addressed his tariff letter to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, who bested Bolsonaro in 2022.

Bolsonaro testified before the countrys Supreme Court in June over the alleged plot to remain in power after his 2022 election loss. Judges will hear from 26 other defendants in coming months. A decision could come as early as September, legal analysts say. Bolsonaro has already been ruled ineligible until 2030 by the countrys electoral authorities.

Brazils vice president, Geraldo Alckmin, said he sees no reason for the U.S. to hike tariffs on the South American nation.

I think he has been misinformed," he said. President Lula was jailed for almost two years. No one questioned the judiciary. No one questioned what the country had done. This is a matter for our judiciary branch.

For Trump, the tariffs are personal

Trump also objected to Brazil's Supreme Court fining of social media companies, saying the temporary blocking last year amounted to SECRET and UNLAWFUL Censorship Orders. Trump said he is launching an investigation as a result under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974, which applies to companies with trade practices that are deemed unfair to U.S. companies.

Among the companies the Supreme Court fined was X, which was not mentioned specifically in Trump's letter. X is owned by Elon Musk, Trump's multibillionaire backer in the 2024 election whose time leading Trump's Department of Government Efficiency recently ended and led to a public feud over the U.S. president's deficit-increasing budget plan. Trump also owns a social media company, Truth Social.

The Brazil letter was a reminder that politics and personal relations with Trump matter just as much as any economic fundamentals. And while Trump has said the high tariff rates hes setting are based on trade imbalances, it was unclear by his Wednesday actions how the countries being targeted would help to reindustrialize America.

The tariffs starting Aug. 1 would be a dramatic increase from the 10% rate that Trump levied on Brazil as part of his April 2 Liberation Day announcement. In addition to oil, Brazil sells orange juice, coffee, iron and steel to the U.S., among other products. The U.S. ran a $6.8 billion trade surplus with Brazil last year, according to the Census Bureau.

Trump initially announced his broad tariffs by declaring an economic emergency, arguing under a 1977 law that the U.S. was at risk because of persistent trade imbalances. But that rationale becomes problematic in this particular case, as Trump is linking his tariffs to the Bolsonaro trial and the U.S. exports more to Brazil than it imports.

RELATED STORY | Trump sets Aug. 1 date for new tariffs, leaves room for negotiation

Trump also targeted smaller trade partners

Trump also sent letters Wednesday to the leaders of seven other nations. None of them the Philippines, Brunei, Moldova, Algeria, Libya, Iraq and Sri Lanka is a major industrial rival to the United States.

Most economic analyses say the tariffs will worsen inflationary pressures and subtract from economic growth, but Trump has used the taxes as a way to assert the diplomatic and financial power of the U.S. on both rivals and allies. His administration is promising that the taxes on imports will lower trade imbalances, offset some of the cost of the tax cuts he signed into law on Friday and cause factory jobs to return to the United States.

Trump, during a White House meeting with African leaders, talked up trade as a diplomatic tool. Trade, he said, seems to be a foundation for him to settle disputes between India and Pakistan, as well as Kosovo and Serbia.

You guys are going to fight, were not going to trade, Trump said. And we seem to be quite successful in doing that.

On Monday, Trump placed a 35% tariff on Serbia, one of the countries he was using as an example of how fostering trade can lead to peace.

Trump said the tariff rates in his letters were based on common sense and trade imbalances, even though the Brazil letter indicated otherwise. Trump suggested he had not thought of penalizing the countries whose leaders were meeting with him in the Oval Office Liberia, Senegal, Gabon, Mauritania and Guinea-Bissau as these are friends of mine now.

Countries are not complaining about the rates outlined in his letters, he said, even though those tariffs have been generally close to the ones announced April 2 that rattled financial markets. The S&P 500 stock index rose Wednesday.

We really havent had too many complaints because Im keeping them at a very low number, very conservative as you would say, Trump said.

Tariff uncertainty returns with Trump's letters

Officials for the European Union, a major trade partner and source of Trump's ire on trade, said Tuesday that they are not expecting to receive a letter from Trump listing tariff rates. The Republican president started the process of announcing tariff rates on Monday by hitting two major U.S. trading partners, Japan and South Korea, with import taxes of 25%.

According to Trump's Wednesday letters, imports from Libya, Iraq, Algeria and Sri Lanka would be taxed at 30%, those from Moldova and Brunei at 25% and those from the Philippines at 20%. The tariffs would start Aug. 1.

The Census Bureau reported that last year that the U.S. ran a trade imbalance on goods of $1.4 billion with Algeria, $5.9 billion with Iraq, $900 million with Libya, $4.9 billion with the Philippines, $2.6 billion with Sri Lanka, $111 million with Brunei and $85 million with Moldova. The imbalance represents the difference between what the U.S. exported to those countries and what it imported.

Taken together, the trade imbalances with those seven countries are essentially a rounding error in a U.S. economy with a gross domestic product of $30 trillion.

The letters were posted on Truth Social after the expiration of a 90-day negotiating period with a baseline levy of 10%. Trump is giving countries more time to negotiate with his Aug. 1 deadline, but he has insisted there will be no extensions for the countries that receive letters.

The tariff letters are worded aggressively in Trump's style of writing. He frames the tariffs as an invitation to "participate in the extraordinary Economy of the United States," adding that the trade imbalances are a major threat to America's economy and national security.

The president threatened additional tariffs on any country that attempts to retaliate. He said he chose to send the letters because it was too complicated for U.S. officials to negotiate with their counterparts in the countries with new tariffs. It can take years to broker trade accords.

The Trump administration has resumed sending some weapons to Ukraine, a week after the Pentagon had directed that some deliveries be paused, U.S. officials said Wednesday.

The weapons heading into Ukraine include 155 mm munitions and precision-guided rockets known as GMLRS, two officials told The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity to provide details that had not been announced publicly. Its unclear exactly when the weapons started moving.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed the pause on some shipments last week to allow the Pentagon to assess its weapons stockpiles, in a move that caught the White House by surprise.

RELATED STORY | Russia unleashes biggest drone attack on Ukraine since start of war

Affected was Patriot missiles, the precision-guided GMLRS, Hellfire missiles, Howitzer rounds and more, taking not only Ukrainian officials and other allies by surprise but also U.S. lawmakers and other parts of the Trump administration, including the State Department.

It was not clear if a pause on Patriot missiles would hold. The $4 million munition is in high demand and was key to defending a major U.S. air base in Qatar last month as Iran launched a ballistic missile attack in response to the U.S. targeting its nuclear facilities.

President Donald Trump announced Monday that the U.S. would continue to deliver defensive weapons to Ukraine. He has sidestepped questions about who ordered the pause in exchanges with reporters this week.

I would know if a decision is made. I will know, Trump said Wednesday. I will be the first to know. In fact, most likely Id give the order, but I havent done that yet.

Asked a day earlier who ordered the pause, he said, I dont know. Why dont you tell me?

Trump has privately expressed frustration with Pentagon officials for announcing the pause a move that he felt wasnt properly coordinated with the White House, according to three people familiar with the matter.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | Trump says US must send more weapons to Ukraine, days after ordering pause in deliveries

The Pentagon has denied that Hegseth acted without consulting the president, saying, Secretary Hegseth provided a framework for the President to evaluate military aid shipments and assess existing stockpiles. This effort was coordinated across government.

It comes as Russia has fired escalating air attacks on Ukraine, with a barrage that the largest number of drones fired in a single night in the three-year-old war, Ukrainian officials said Wednesday.

Trump has become increasingly frustrated with Russian President Vladimir Putin, saying he wasn't happy with him.

"Putin is not, hes not treating human beings right, Trump said during a Cabinet meeting Tuesday, explaining the pauses reversal. Its killing too many people. So were sending some defensive weapons to Ukraine, and Ive approved that.

The 155 mm artillery rounds have become some of the most used munitions of the war. Each round is about 2 feet (60 centimeters) long, weighs about 100 pounds (45 kilograms) and is 155 mm, or 6.1 inches, in diameter. They are used in Howitzer systems, which are towed large guns identified by the range of the angle of fire that their barrels can be set to.

Howitzer fires can strike targets up to 15 to 20 miles (24 to 32 kilometers) away, depending on what type of round and firing system is used, which makes them highly valued by ground forces to take out enemy targets from a protected distance.

The U.S. has provided more than 3 million 155 mm rounds to Ukraine since Russia invaded its neighbor in February 2022. It has sent more than $67 billion in overall weapons and military assistance to Ukraine in that period.

A police pursuit from Warren to Hazel Park ended in a crash. The stolen vehicle hit an innocent, uninvolved vehicle and then crashed into iconic restaurant Brayz Hamburgers, according to Warren police.

It happened just after 4:30 a.m. Wednesday. Investigators said the vehicle was stolen from the Lafayette Place mobile home park about a mile from the restaurant.

Watch the video report below: Warren police chase ends with 4 teens crashing into Brayz Hamburgers

Throughout the morning and afternoon, customers showed up to Brayz Hamburgers at the corner of 9 Mile Road and Dequindre Road in Hazel Park like any other day.

"Ya know, they got a special today and they burgers real good," frequent customer Michael Williams said.

Rochelle Foy, another frequent customer, pulled the door handle with surprise.

"Oh, they closed?" she said.

Curious customers, some who had already heard about the crash, took time to peer through the windows and hoped they could still get a meal.

Well, the other side of the building facing 9 Mile, which is now boarded up, illustrates part of the story.

"I got a lot of debris in the lobby. So, gotta see what's going on with that first. I'd like to get it up and running 'cause people are gonna kind of be mad today that this happened because they love us and they love this place," owner Paul Mirdita told 7 News Detroit.

Prior to the police chase, investigators said officers tried to initiate a traffic stop, but the suspects took off.

"At 9 Mile and Dequindre, the Kia disregards a solid red traffic signal, strikes an uninvolved Lincoln and from that impact, the Kia ends up crashing into Brayz Hamburger restaurant," Lt. John Gajewski told 7 News Detroit.

He said of the driver of the Lincoln, "Thankfully, she sustained very minor injuries. She was transported to the hospital for very precautionary reasons."

See video from the scene and hear from the owner of Brayz Hamburgers in the video player below: 4 teens arrested after stealing cars, crashing into Brayz Hamburgers following chase with Warren police

Gajewski said police arrested four juveniles suspects who were in the vehicle and recovered a weapon. He said some of the teens have recent contact with law enforcement. One of them has been in trouble for auto theft.

"I think we can only speculate at this point but obviously, when there's a loaded gun and gloves in the car, I think the indicators of them trying to probably commit a more serious violent crime are there," the lieutenant explained.

He said a second Kia stolen at the complex stalled out and that suspect was also arrested.

The owner of Brayz is now left literally picking up the pieces of those suspects' selfish actions as he questions the actions of police.

"Why they would chase in rain, ya know. Nascar drivers, everybody knows that they have a car, you cannot chase in the rain. That made absolutely no sense to me. So, I don't know. I don't like this though. This is not right," Mirdita said.

City officials say relief is coming to a stretch of road that has been plagued by potholes for more than two years, but businesses along the route say the damage has already been done.

The nearly one-mile stretch of Mount Elliott, which turns into Conant on Detroit's east side near I-94, is riddled with potholes that appear every few feet, creating a traffic nightmare for drivers and businesses alike.

"It's a big mess. Yes, there's huge potholes, don't even have barricades for the potholes," said Sam Saleh, owner and operator of Hawk Auto Sales.

Saleh says the road has been in this condition for more than two years, causing significant harm to his business.

"We're losing a lot of business, no one is coming through to buy cars," Saleh said.

His auto sales shop sits right on Conant, and he says customers are avoiding the area because of the road conditions.

One driver I spoke with said they've had to repair their car three times this month alone due to the road conditions.

"It's pretty bumpy, especially for low cars," another driver said.

A viewer even emailed us saying, "If this were anywhere else, it would not be allowed to be left in this condition."

City officials acknowledge the problems and say they're working on a solution.

"Once we get done reconstructing this road, they're gonna have something that's gonna last for the next 50 years," said Richard Doherty, city engineer for the city of Detroit.

Doherty explained that the road is in poor condition because of a major project to replace water mains.

"They're doing all this because we're investing $10 to $11 million to replace the road out. The road has been in rough shape for quite a few years now," Doherty said.

Gary Brown, director of the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department, admitted the project has taken too long.

"They haven't been forgotten, and we're one of those businesses. Our offices, we have hundreds of employees who drive this road. We want it fixed, also," Brown said.

When asked about the timeline for repairs, Doherty said they're waiting for the final approval from the city council.

"Still waiting for the last step to get in on the council agenda. Once that's done, we'll be able to cut them loose, start end of July, first of August, should be done before the snow flies this fall," Doherty said.

Meanwhile, Saleh and other businesses continue to suffer.

"One day it's piping, one day it's different lines. We're waiting for this to come, for that. As you can see, the road here, it's not as busy as it used to be. People are taking other roads," Saleh 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 teen is dead and another is injured after a shooting in White Lake Township when they and five others allegedly broke into a homeowner's detached garage Tuesday.

Watch Randy Wimbley's video report: Teen killed after garage break-in raises questions about self-defense laws

According to neighbors, this was the third time the garage had been burglarized. Police are now investigating the shooting. All of it raises questions about when homeowners can legally use deadly force.

Michigan's self-defense laws provide specific guidelines for when lethal force is justified, according to Jim Makowski, a defense lawyer who specializes in Michigan firearm and use of force laws.

Makowski said the use of deadly force is justified if someone kicks open the door or pushes their way inside after you answer the door.

"Deadly force is authorized. Your home is being invaded and you've got a reasonable presumption that you're in danger," he said.

Hear more from Jim Makowski about Michigan's self-defense laws in the video player below: Web extra: Legal expert explains Michigan's self-defense laws during break-ins

Makowski explained that two legal doctrines outline when deadly force can lawfully be used: if there's an honest and reasonable belief it's necessary to prevent immediate death, great bodily harm or rape of yourself or someone else.

The first doctrine is commonly known as "Stand Your Ground."

"You have the right to defend yourself with no duty to retreat as long as you're not committing a crime and you have the legal right to be there," Makowski said.

The second is the "Castle Doctrine."

"Your home is your castle. You have the right to defend it if someone is breaking into your house. There's the presumption they are meaning harm to you and you can use deadly force to repel that threat," Makowski said.

The Castle Doctrine applies to the curtilage, or immediate surroundings of your home, but there are important distinctions when it comes to detached structures.

"Now, if you've got a detached garage, that's outside the curtilage of your house. It's not attached to your house. If it was an attached garage and someone was breaking in with a doorway into the house, again that's part of the dwelling," Makowski said.

He said deadly force can not be used in a situation where someone is in the home and you see them, but they're quickly taking off.

"If they're retreating, you cannot use deadly force because you're no longer in fear of your life. I mean, if someone is trying to get out of the situation, you have to let them go," Makowski said.

Furthermore, Michigan law does not allow the use of lethal force solely to protect property including pets and cars with one key exception: when someone is inside like a spouse, loved one or child.

"Different story altogether. It's more of a carjacking than an auto theft. Defense of others absolutely comes into play," Makowski said.

Derek Miller, a former Macomb County prosecutor, shared what he would look for in a case where a homeowner uses lethal force.

"When you're looking at a homeowner that uses deadly force, you gotta look at the nature of the crime," Miller said. "Was this person reacting to an immediate fear of death or great bodily harm within their house, or were they hunting?"

Hear more from Derek Miller in the video player below: Web extra: Derek Miller on gun rules

Makowski emphasized that there's one almost sure-fire way to avoid legal and emotional trouble when it comes to using a firearm in what you believe is a self-defense situation.

"Always consider retreating if you can. No one wants to take a life," Makowski said. "If you have to use deadly force, don't hesitate to use it to protect yourself. But if you can avoid using deadly force, always try to do so."

A 12-year-old cancer survivor is making a difference at the same hospital where he and his family spent many long days and nights during his treatment.

Hudson Brown and his family delivered 385 Lego sets to Henry Ford St. John Children's Hospital this year as part of their annual "Hudsy Strong" Lego drive, an initiative they started after Hudson's own experience with cancer.

At just 5 years old, doctors found a cancerous tumor in Hudson's brain. During his treatment, which included months of radiation and chemotherapy, Legos became more than just toys.

"It made me sit up and have something to do, and I think it'd be nice if other people had the same thing that I had," Hudson said.

Doctors noted that building with Legos helped keep Hudson's brain and fine motor skills sharp throughout his treatment.

Trying to bring the joy of Legos to a child whos going through a tough time and just to brighten their day," said his mom, Megan Brown.

This marks the fifth year the Brown family has made this special delivery to the hospital, with each year surpassing the last. Their donation has grown from 192 sets in 2021 to 385 sets this year.

"I was just excited to bring the Lego sets," Hudson said. "I just, like, when we come home from something, seeing a ton of boxes on our porch and then knowing that most of them are going to be Lego sets for the kids in the hospital."

Hudson's parents remember how meaningful these small gifts were during their own hospital stay.

"I remember what a weight was lifted off of us when we were able to hand him a set from a neighbor or a friend or a coworker and have him feel happy," his dad, Patrick Brown, said.

For the children receiving care at the hospital, Shay Jerzy, a child life specialist at the hospital, says these donations make a significant impact.

"Here in pediatrics, we do have a play room that is funded through all donor funds or gifting kind donations, so there's no hospital budget for the play items that we have, but we know we need to normalize the environment. Families like the Browns giving their generosity just guarantees that patients in the future will have the play items they need to start their coping journey while they're here in the hospital," Jerzy said.

The Brown family plans to continue their mission and hopes to break their record again next year.

"People have come out of the woodworks just to be kind and generous all over the place," Patrick Brown 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.

Central Texas is grappling with the aftermath of devastating floods that have disrupted lives and communities. The road to Camp Mystic, once a bustling pathway, now reveals the destruction left behind by the floodwaters.

As the flood's power becomes evident, twisted tree limbs and personal belongings litter the roadside. Items once cherished now lie abandoned, stark reminders of the lives affected by this natural disaster.

RELATED STORY | Remembering some of the lives lost in the Texas flood tragedy

The Guadalupe River, a serene fixture in the region, has transformed into a force of destruction. Nearby, Camp Mystic's dormitories stand in disarray, with campers' possessions piled on the lawn, evoking a deep sense of loss.

Search and rescue teams have been tirelessly working to account for the staggering number of individuals affected, with reports of 160 people still missing nearly a week after the flooding. The emotional toll on these dedicated crews has been profound, as they navigate the recovery efforts amidst tragedy.

Among the wreckage, remnants of festivities like 4th of July t-shirts and party favors remind the community of celebrations that were to take place, now overshadowed by sorrow. The date will hold a different meaning for Kerr County moving forward, serving as a somber reminder of what was lost.

RELATED STORY | 'Terrifying experience': Texas flood survivors share stories of courage and resilience

The sheer force of the waters is illustrated through the sight of vehicles, some as heavy as two tons, lodged in precarious positions, underscoring the overwhelming impact of the flooding.

With so much ground still to cover, the search and rescue efforts continue, reflecting a communitys resilience amidst heartache.

The devastating floods in central Texas have left families and communities in urgent need of support. Scripps News and the Scripps Howard Fund are partnering to provide critical relief to those impacted. Every dollar donated 

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 will go directly to helping victims recover.This story was initially reported 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.

Rain may have shortened this year's Metro Detroit Youth Day, but thousands of kids still enjoyed a day of games, entertainment, and educational opportunities at Belle Isle Park.

The annual event, now in its 41st year, began after tensions arose between some Detroit stores and youth in 1980, when Mayor Coleman A. Young asked community leader Ed Deeb for assistance.

"They got together and they got a group together and decided they were going to do something to show the kids that there were more positive things in life," said Michele Simon, secretary for Ed Deeb, who is the founder of the event.

What started with about 1,100 participants has since grown to more than 30,000 attendees. The event has become a multi-generational tradition for many Detroit families.

"We actually have parents that were here when they were kids that bring their own kids. So we know that they're enjoying it," Simon said.

Wednesday's event featured booths filled with games, giveaways, career professionals, and educational activities. Young participants found different aspects of the day appealing.

"The mascots, the food, drinks," said Terry Davis, a Metro Detroit Youth Day participant.

For older students, the college information section was particularly valuable.

"It's a good opportunity, you can see different colleges, get free stuff, that's nice. Free stuff is always nice. So yeah, I definitely appreciate it," said Tary Simpson, a Metro Detroit Youth Day participant.

Many youth expressed feeling inspired by the event.

"Adults working with kids. It's something I'll remember for sure and I can tell my family about," Simpson said.

For the organizers, seeing the joy on participants' faces makes all the effort worthwhile.

"It's very fulfilling for us and makes everything worthwhile," Simon 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.

Detroit City Council is taking a bold step to make the process of opening a small business easier and more affordable.

Watch Simon Shaykhet's video report: Detroit council approves plan to make licensing easier for small business owners

It's part of a goal to help more Detroiters invest in the city's business opportunities.

Councilman Fred Durhal III co-sponsored the ordinance to create a better path for those seeking to start a small business.

He said new rules help with less paperwork, interest-free options for fees, removal of licensing redundancy, simplified food service regulations, improved patio service regulations and more.

Not requiring business owners to apply for a license every year, but extended to two years. Now, you dont have to apply to state and city health departments. The state health license is adequate enough," Durhal said.

Another major change, he said, is that there will be a business concierge team that will walk owners from start to finish and help navigate the process.

Detroit also celebrated its 190th Motor City Match awardee on Wednesday. Tiffani Patterson, a proud mom of two, cut the ribbon to a new wine shop on Kercheval.

I feel really good. Really good," Patterson said.

At the location, there will be a tasting room for Detroit-made wine, made possible by $75,000 in grant funding for a second-generation Detroit business owner.

Id say keep pushing forward. Being a part of Motor City Match was very helpful. It helped me get through the different channels to be open today," Patterson said.

Council said this step is a result of a lot of discussion with business owners who are looking to support more neighborhood investment.

Where Your Voice Matters

A Downriver family is making a desperate plea to the community for answers after their son was murdered and left in an abandoned building on Detroit's west side.

Watch Whitney Burney's video report: Family pleads for answers in murder of 31-year-old man found in abandoned building

The body of 31-year-old Bradley Tucker was found on Beechton Street near Livernois and Warren Avenue in December 2023, but his remains weren't identified until last month.

His family says Tucker had been shot to death and wrapped in a blanket before being left in the abandoned building.

"It's a little unnerving. To see where he last was, it's hard," said Tracey Tucker, Bradley's mother, as she stood near the abandoned building Wednesday.

Tracey Tucker says the pain of losing her son remains deep nearly two years after his disappearance.

"It's just been hard. Everybody, any male that resembled him, I would have to take double takes thinking it was him and still to this day, I'm still seeing him everywhere," Tracey Tucker said.

According to family members, Bradley Tucker had been missing for more than two months when his body was discovered. His mother recalls the last time she heard from him was a strange phone call in September of 2023. She says it was unlike him.

"When he called me the last time, he called me on a private number and he doesn't usually call me on a private number. He usually calls me from the Coney Island here on Warren or his cellphone," Tracey said.

Tracey Tucker says although her son called her frequently, she never heard from him again.

To date, police have been unable to make an arrest in the case, leaving the family with unanswered questions and seeking closure.

"We will not stop until justice is served, but we can't do it without you," said Patricia Lee, Bradley Tucker's aunt. "And to Brad's murderer, I'm talking to you: do the right thing. Turn yourself in."

The family is now partnering with Crime Stoppers to offer a reward of up to $2,500 for information leading to an arrest.

Bradley Tucker's mother remains hopeful that someone will be held responsible for her son's death.

When asked what she would say to her son now, Tracey responded: "I love you and I'm glad that he was found and I'm glad that I have him at home now."

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP. Callers will remain anonymous.

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. Where Your Voice Matters

The Supreme Court on Wednesday refused to allow Florida to enforce an immigration law making it a crime for people who are living in the U.S. illegally to enter the state.

The high court's action will keep the law on hold while a legal challenge continues. The court did not explain its decision and no justice noted a dissent.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the legislation into law in February in support of President Donald Trumps push to crack down on illegal immigration.

Immigrants rights groups filed lawsuits on behalf of two unnamed, Florida-based immigrants living in the U.S. illegally, arguing that immigration is a federal issue beyond the power of the states.

RELATED STORY | US Marines will be deployed to Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations in Florida

U.S. District Judge Kathleen Williams barred the enforcement of the new law in April. The attorney generals office then unsuccessfully petitioned the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals to override that decision.

The law is similar to a Texas law that also has been blocked by a federal appeals court.

Congress recently passed a significant tax and spending bill that increases funding for defense, the border, and includes tax cuts. However, this summer, Congress is shifting gearsstanding poised to cut already allocated funds.

President Trump is calling on Congress to approve what's known as a "rescission package" in the coming days. This request allows the president to cancel previously allocated funds, a power granted by the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974. Congress has until July 18 to respond to Trump's proposal.

The president is seeking a total cut of $9.4 billion. Proposed cuts include defunding the U.S. Agency for International Development, former President George W. Bush's AIDS relief program, and federal support for PBS and NPR.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | DOGE's mission to downsize federal government continues without Musk

"To my friends across the aisle, I know you love your globalist pet projects, but the American people are fed up," Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert stated earlier this year.

Democratic Rep. Sydney Kamlager-Dove responded, "We will have zero claim to global leadership while you all have killed off Elmo."

While the House has already approved this legislation despite Democratic opposition, the Senate has yet to take action. Legal experts warn that Congress must vote by next Friday, or the White House will be required to spend the allocated funds.

In an effort to counteract the proposed funding cuts, public broadcasters have initiated a social media campaign.

Trump remains firm in his stance on the cuts. Last month, he expressed on his Truth Social platform, "NPR and PBS are a Radical Left Disaster, and 1000% against the Republican Party!"

LAST MONTH | House approves Trump's request to cut funding for NPR, PBS and foreign aid

While NPR does not solely depend on federal funds, it has alerted its listeners to the potential fallout of slashing resources.

"If rescission passes and local stations go dark, millions of Americans will no longer have access to locally owned, independent, nonprofit media and will bear the risk of living in a news desert," NPR warned in a statement.

Republican Senate leaders are not expected to vote on the package until next week, with some moderate Republicans expressing concerns over the cuts. Democratic leader Chuck Schumer has labeled the proposal a "toxic proposal," although it is not reliant on Democratic support to pass.

This story was initially reported 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.

Climate change was likely a factor in the flood that devastated the Texas Hill Country.

Early data analyzed by meteorologists say atmospheric conditions similar to those behind the recent flooding are now about 7% wetter than in the past, due to rising global temperatures. Experts add the event was driven by exceptionally rare meteorological conditions that cannot be explained by natural variability alone.

Many experts say preparedness must become a top priority as storms grow more destructive.

RELATED STORY | Crews dig through debris in Texas flood zone with more than 160 still missing

While the National Weather Service and the White House emphasized that the forecast for the Texas storm was accurate and local NWS offices were adequately staffed, funding cuts may have disrupted other routine operations.

Tom Fahy, legislative director for the National Weather Service Employees Organization, said financial constraints affected communication between warning coordination meteorologists and local emergency officials ahead of the storm.

The role of the warning coordination meteorologist is to engage with emergency management and public safety, conduct training and exercises, and ensure preparedness for extreme weather, Fahy told Scripps News. That hasnt been happening since the beginning of the year. Those funds were frozen.

RELATED STORY | Camp Mystic passed a state inspection of its emergency procedures 2 days before flood

The San Antonio weather office currently lacks a permanent science officer and warning coordination meteorologist, and the San Angelo office is without a permanent meteorologist-in-charge. While acting staff are filling those roles, Fahy warned that may not be feasible in all regions, potentially reducing lead time for critical forecasts and warnings.

About a month ago, President Donald Trump directed the National Weather Service and NOAA to begin filling job vacancies left open by early retirements as part of earlier efforts to reduce the size of the federal workforce.

Fahy is now calling on the president to issue a directive to expedite hiring to fill nearly 100 open positions.

In todays Health Alert, some alarming news about young people and their risk of developing diabetes. New data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that 1 in 3 teens has prediabetes.

This is definitely a wake-up call for parents. The study included teens and preteens, ages 12 through 17. The CDC found that about 8.4 million young people in this age group had prediabetes in 2023 when the latest data was collected. That amounts to 32.7 percent of the adolescent population in the United States, and it represents a major increase over previous years.

A person with prediabetes has blood sugar levels that are higher than normal, but not high enough to be diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.

However, it is a critical warning sign. Prediabetes increases the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and other serious health conditions like heart disease and stroke.

According to the CDC, the main risk factors for prediabetes include being overweight, having a parent or sibling with Type 2 diabetes, not getting enough physical activity, and eating foods high in sugar.

The good news is that prediabetes is preventable and reversible by making some simple lifestyle changes. For example, make sure your teenager eats a balanced diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Also, encourage them to stay physically active with at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, such as walking, cycling, or swimming. And, losing weight can significantly improve blood sugar levels.

These changes, along with regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, can help teens reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes and improve their overall health.

A Texas summer camp had a state-mandated emergency plan in place before devastating flash floods took the lives of dozens of campers and staff, state records confirm.

A state health report dated July 2  two days before the flooding emergency began showed Camp Mystic passed its annual inspection to maintain its state youth camp license.

Inspectors in Texas visit licensed camps annually and check for a variety of health and safety measures, from first aid kits and flotation devices, to staff background checks and the sanitation of kitchens and bathrooms.

On July 2, a state health inspector on site at Camp Mystic answered Yes to the question, Is there a written plan of procedures to be implemented in case of a disaster, serious accident, epidemic, or fatality formulated and posted in the camps administrative on-site office or location?

The inspector also confirmed staff and volunteers were made aware of the emergency plan, that the camp documented it had trained or briefed staff and volunteers on those procedures, and that the camp had a telephone available for emergency use.

RELATED STORY | Crews dig through debris in Texas flood zone with more than 160 still missing

Records reviewed by Scripps News show inspectors found Camp Mystic had an emergency plan in place as required by state law in each of its annual inspections going back at least to 2021. Camps are required to include procedures for emergency shelter and for evacuation in their plans.

Scripps News contacted Camp Mystic on Wednesday morning, requesting the camps emergency plan. However, Scripps News has not yet heard back. Its still unclear whether the plan was followed when disaster struck.

Lara Anton, a spokesperson for the State Department of Health Services, told Scripps News inspectors do not scrutinize the substance of summer camp emergency plans, and the state does not obtain copies of the plans.

Camp Mystic confirmed with a statement on its website that 27 campers and counselors died in the flooding.

The devastating floods in central Texas have left families and communities in urgent need of support. Scripps News and the Scripps Howard Fund are partnering to provide critical relief to those impacted. Every dollar donated 

here

 will go directly to helping victims recover.

Substantial new sanctions targeting Russia are gaining momentum in the Senate, with bipartisan support growing as President Donald Trump appears to be on board. Both Republicans and Democrats are coalescing around a bill designed to punish Russia with severe economic sanctions, aiming to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin to end the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, a key proponent, emphasized the urgency of the sanctions, citing recent aggressive actions by Russia, including an attack on Kyiv.

"Putin is pounding Kyiv. He hit hard last night," Graham said. "We have to stand up to Putin and make it harder, not easier."

"July is gonna be the magic month for bone-crushing sanctions on Vladimir Putin," Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a Connecticut Democrat, added.

RELATED STORY | Russia unleashes biggest drone attack on Ukraine since start of war

Senate Majority Leader John Thune echoed Graham's sentiments on the Senate floor, expressing confidence that the sanctions will be discussed before the August recess. The proposed legislation would empower President Trump with additional tools to exert pressure on Putin, potentially paving the way for diplomatic negotiations.

Despite broad support, some dissenters are outspoken in their opposition to further sanctions. However, Sen. Markwayne Mullin remains optimistic, noting bipartisan backing and claiming alignment with Republican leadership.

"I support it wholeheartedly... I think it's heavily bipartisan. Its not just Republicans; it's Democrats too," Mullin stated.

The so-called "Trump factor" continues to play a role, as the president has yet to explicitly dictate whether he wants the sanctions bill expedited. Though Trump may allow Congress to pass the bill, his ambiguous stance could affect the timeline for any legislative action.

With Senate leaders committed to advancing the sanctions package by August, all eyes are on Trump's next move, which could either accelerate or stall the process.

RELATED STORY | Russia unleashes biggest drone attack on Ukraine since start of war

This story was initially reported 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.

Nearly eight million student loan borrowers will soon begin accruing interest on their debt again. The U.S. Department of Education announced Wednesday that interest charges for people enrolled in the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) Plan will resume on August 1.

The income-driven repayment program, which was introduced by the Biden administration in 2023, allowed some low-income borrowers to qualify for $0 monthly payments on their federal student loans, while others could have their loans forgiven outright.

IN RELATED NEWS | As federal student loan collections resume, what options do borrowers have?

The White House at the time said that student loan borrowers enrolled in the SAVE Plan who have made payments for at least 10 years and originally took out up to $12,000 are eligible to have their loans automatically forgiven.

Additionally, the White House said for every $1,000 borrowed above $12,000, a borrower can receive forgiveness after an additional year of payments. That means someone enrolled in the SAVE Plan with an original debt of up to $21,000 would have their loans forgiven by the time they reach 20 years of payments.

However, a lawsuit filed by seven Republican-led states argued that taxpayer dollars shouldn't be used to subsidize the student loan repayments of those who benefited from receiving higher education.

A federal appeals court ultimately sided with the plaintiffs, claiming the Biden administration was using the SAVE Plan as a workaround after the Supreme Court blocked former President Joe Biden's sweeping loan forgiveness plan in June 2023.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT | US appeals court blocks Biden SAVE Plan for student loan repayment and relief

The Education Department said it will soon begin reaching out directly to the nearly 7.7 million borrowers currently enrolled in the SAVE Plan, with instruction on how to begin making qualifying payments again.

For years, the Biden Administration used so-called loan forgiveness promises to win votes, but federal courts repeatedly ruled that those actions were unlawful," said U.S. Education Secretary Linda McMahon. "Congress designed these programs to ensure that borrowers repay their loans, yet the Biden Administration tried to illegally force taxpayers to foot the bill instead."

Detroit Tigers bat boy Frankie Boyd has been named to the 2025 MLB All-Star game, the franchise and MLB announced on Wednesday afternoon.

Boyd has been part of the Bat Boy crew since 2017, earning high praise from players in the clubhouse.

Boyd and Philadelphia Phillies bat boy Adam Crognale will be in Atlanta next week for the All-Star festivities.

The All-Star Game will take place on Tuesday, July 15 (8 p.m. ET, Fox). Barring any last minute additions with injuries, Four Tigers players will participate in the game: pitcher Tarik Skubal, infielder Gleyber Torres and outfielders Riley Greene and Javier Baez.

A Wayne County man has won a top prize of $4,000,0000 in an instant game after deciding to buy a ticket after he checked and saw none of the top prizes had been claimed yet.

I like playing the $30 games and saw on the prizes remaining page on MichiganLottery.com that $4,000,000 Winner still had all three top prizes remaining, so I went to the store to buy a ticket, said the 50-year-old player, who chose to remain anonymous, in a press release. The store had three $4,000,000 Winner tickets left, so I bought all three, scratched the barcodes, and scanned the tickets.

One of the tickets came back with a message to file a claim, so I knew I had to have won one of the big prizes, but I was too nervous to scratch the ticket," he continued. "The next day, once I calmed down a bit, I scanned the ticket on the Michigan Lottery app and started screaming when $4 million came up on the screen! It was unreal.

Checking the instant games prizes remaining page on MichiganLottery.com led this lucky player to trying a new game and scoring an incredible $4 million win! said Lottery Commissioner Suzanna Shkreli in the news release. Congratulations to Michigans newest millionaire on his life-changing prize!

The winning ticket was purchased at Superior Market at 5700 Plymouth Road in Ann Arbor.

The man claimed the prize at lottery headquarters, taking the one-time lump sum payment of about $2.7 million. He told lottery officials he plans to pay off his home, take a trip, and then save the remainder.

According to the lottery, players have won more than $72 million playing $4,000,000 Winner, which launched in December 2023. Each $30 ticket offers players a chance to win prizes ranging from $30 up to $4 million. More than $92 million in prizes remain, including two $4 million top prizes, 24 $15,000 prizes, and 132 $5,000 prizes.