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Just the Facts, from multiple news sources.

US News

Latest developments and key stories from across the United States

Talking to kids about school shootings. Be truthful and follow their lead

Talking to kids about school shootings. Be truthful and follow their lead

August 29, 2025
The article discusses how parents can talk to children about school shootings in the United States. It emphasizes being honest and understanding children's questions and concerns, using guidelines from experts to help kids cope with their feelings.

Key Facts:

  • School shootings in the U.S. have increased significantly in recent years.
  • There have been 44 school shootings in the U.S. this year, according to CNN.
  • Since 1999, more than 400 school shootings have occurred in the U.S., based on data from The Washington Post.
  • Experts suggest starting conversations by asking children what they've heard about shootings.
  • It's essential to be honest with children to build trust, explaining that while schools are generally safe, risks exist.
  • A child's age, trauma history, and proximity to an event may influence their reaction.
  • Routine and limited media exposure can help children feel secure after a tragedy.
  • Resources and guidance are available from the American School Counselor Association and other organizations to aid parents and educators.

Source Information

NPR Home

New CDC head chosen after week of turmoil at the agency

August 29, 2025
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has appointed a new acting director after a week of challenges at the agency. The change in leadership comes amid difficulties within the CDC.

Key Facts:

  • The CDC has faced a challenging week leading to the appointment of a new acting director.
  • This leadership change occurred due to turmoil within the agency.
  • The focus is currently on stabilizing the agency's operations.
  • The position filled is an interim role, meaning it is temporary.
  • The announcement was made public in late August 2025.

Source Information

NPR Home

At a high school in Wichita, Friday night lights is no longer about football

August 29, 2025
A high school in Wichita can't have a football team this year because there aren't enough players. Instead, the school plans to have different activities for students on Friday nights.

Key Facts:

  • Wichita Independent School does not have enough football players this year.
  • The school decided to offer alternative activities on Friday evenings.
  • The change affects the traditional Friday night football events.
  • The school made the announcement recently.
  • Alternative activities are intended for the students' benefit.

Source Information

NPR National

Jesse Merkel remembers his son, Fletcher, killed at the Minneapolis shooting

August 29, 2025
Jesse Merkel remembers his son, Fletcher, who died in a shooting in Minneapolis. A vigil took place to remember Fletcher and another child who also lost their life in this incident.

Key Facts:

  • A shooting occurred in Minneapolis.
  • Jesse Merkel's son, Fletcher, was one of the victims.
  • Another child also died in the incident.
  • Friends and family held a vigil on a Thursday evening.
  • The vigil was to honor and remember the children who died.
  • The shooting took place at a church in Minnesota.

Source Information

NPR National

Unions fight back as Trump terminates federal workers' union rights

August 29, 2025
In August 2025, the Trump administration started ending agreements that allowed federal employees to bargain collectively through unions. This decision is leading to legal challenges from the unions.

Key Facts:

  • The Trump administration is ending collective bargaining agreements with federal employee unions.
  • Collective bargaining agreements help unions negotiate work conditions for their members.
  • Multiple lawsuits are challenging the administration's decision.
  • Collective bargaining affects federal employees' work rights and conditions.
  • The change has prompted unions to take action against the administration's move.

Source Information

NPR National
US police say Minneapolis church shooter ‘idolised’ mass murderers

US police say Minneapolis church shooter ‘idolised’ mass murderers

August 29, 2025
A gunman in Minneapolis opened fire on children at a Catholic church, killing two students and injuring over a dozen others. The attack occurred during a school mass, and authorities described the shooter as motivated by hate and obsessed with mass murderers. The shooter later took their own life and had legally obtained weapons.

Key Facts:

  • A 23-year-old shooter killed two children and injured more than 15 others in Minneapolis.
  • The shooting took place at Annunciation Catholic School during a mass.
  • The gunman fired 116 bullets through the church's stained-glass windows.
  • The victims were children aged eight and ten years old.
  • The shooter idolized past mass murderers and left behind writings and videos expressing hate.
  • The attack is considered an act of domestic terrorism, motivated by hate.
  • The shooter had no criminal record and purchased the weapons legally.
  • The incident has renewed discussions on gun safety in the US.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
A 'joyful' girl and a boy who loved sports - Victims in Minneapolis shooting identified

A 'joyful' girl and a boy who loved sports - Victims in Minneapolis shooting identified

August 29, 2025
Two children, Harper Moyski and Fletcher Merkel, were killed in a shooting at a Catholic school in Minneapolis. The attack injured 18 others, including 15 school children and three elderly adults. Police have not identified a clear motive, but the attacker allegedly had anti-religious beliefs and connections to the school.

Key Facts:

  • Harper Moyski, 10, and Fletcher Merkel, 8, were the victims identified in the shooting.
  • The shooting took place during a Mass at Annunciation Catholic Church.
  • A total of 18 people were injured in the attack.
  • The injured include 15 school children aged 6 to 15, and three adults in their 80s.
  • At least one person is in critical condition following the incident.
  • Vigils have been held in Minneapolis and St. Paul, and flags were lowered to half-mast.
  • Police suspect the attacker had strong anti-religious beliefs and previous ties to the school.
  • The attacker’s mother previously worked at the school and hasn't responded to police inquiries.

Source Information

BBC US

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Judge orders new trial for officers in fatal Tyre Nichols assault

Judge orders new trial for officers in fatal Tyre Nichols assault

August 29, 2025
A federal judge in Tennessee has ordered a new trial for three former Memphis police officers involved in the fatal beating of Tyre Nichols in 2023. The decision was based on concerns of bias after the original judge reportedly made comments suggesting gang affiliation. The officers were previously convicted of witness tampering but acquitted of more serious charges.

Key Facts:

  • Three former Memphis officers face a new trial for their roles in Tyre Nichols' death.
  • The new trial was ordered due to concerns about bias from the original judge.
  • Tyre Nichols died after being pepper sprayed, kicked, and punched during a traffic stop.
  • The officers were initially convicted of witness tampering but not of violating Nichols' rights.
  • The case led to widespread protests against police brutality in the U.S.
  • The original judge, Mark S Norris, recused himself after allegedly making biased comments.
  • Two other officers involved pleaded guilty in connection with Nichols' death.
  • The federal case is separate from earlier state charges where the officers were acquitted.

Source Information

BBC US
New trial ordered for 3 Memphis ex-officers in connection with death of Tyre Nichols

New trial ordered for 3 Memphis ex-officers in connection with death of Tyre Nichols

August 29, 2025
A judge has ordered a new trial for three former Memphis police officers convicted of federal charges related to the death of Tyre Nichols. The decision was made after defense lawyers argued that the judge who oversaw their original trial was biased. The officers were previously found guilty of obstructing justice by tampering with a witness and were acquitted of state murder charges.

Key Facts:

  • A new trial is ordered for former Memphis officers Tadarrius Bean, Demetrius Haley, and Justin Smith.
  • They were found guilty in October 2024 of witness tampering in a federal case.
  • The original trial judge, Mark S. Norris, recused himself due to potential bias concerns.
  • Norris was believed to suspect one officer of gang involvement, affecting his impartiality.
  • U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman made the decision for a new trial.
  • Two other officers, Emmitt Martin and Desmond Mills Jr., pleaded guilty in the federal case.
  • The case gained national attention after videos showed the officers beating Tyre Nichols.

Source Information

NPR Home
Scenes from CDC rally for officials who quit over RFK Jr.'s policies

Scenes from CDC rally for officials who quit over RFK Jr.'s policies

August 29, 2025
Three senior officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) resigned and were honored by colleagues after leaving the agency's headquarters. They resigned in response to changes under the Trump administration, criticizing policies that they claimed undermined vaccine science. The White House has named Jim O'Neill as the acting director of the CDC.

Key Facts:

  • The resignation involved three senior CDC officials: Demetre Daskalakis, Debra Houry, and Daniel Jernigan.
  • Susan Monarez, the CDC director at the time, was ousted but did not resign voluntarily.
  • The resignations followed policy changes championed by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who is involved with the Health and Human Services department.
  • The officials claimed these policies threatened lives by undermining vaccine science.
  • Jim O'Neill was announced as the acting CDC director by the White House.
  • The departing officials encouraged Congress to address political interference in CDC decisions.
  • CDC staff showed support with a rally, highlighting concerns over recent policy changes.
  • Resignation statements highlighted an erosion of trust in vaccines and called for science-led decisions.

Source Information

Axios
White House picks Robert Kennedy Jr’s deputy to replace ousted CDC director

White House picks Robert Kennedy Jr’s deputy to replace ousted CDC director

August 29, 2025
The Trump administration chose Jim O'Neill to temporarily lead the CDC after removing director Susan Monarez. Monarez was reportedly dismissed for opposing actions she believed lacked scientific support. Her removal led to resignations among top CDC officials.

Key Facts:

  • Jim O'Neill is picked as the acting head of the CDC.
  • Susan Monarez was removed as CDC director after disagreements with the Trump administration.
  • Monarez and top officials believed some policies were not based on science.
  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is Deputy Secretary in the Department of Health and Human Services.
  • Kennedy, known for anti-vaccine views, replaced CDC advisory board members.
  • Monarez served as CDC director for less than a month.
  • Resignations followed Monarez's dismissal, with officials citing concerns for public health.

Source Information

Al Jazeera
From devastation to determination: Hurricane Katrina's legacy in pictures

From devastation to determination: Hurricane Katrina's legacy in pictures

August 29, 2025
The article reflects on the 20-year anniversary of Hurricane Katrina, which struck New Orleans and the Gulf Coast in August 2005. It highlights the destruction caused by the storm, especially in the Lower 9th Ward, and includes images showing the impact and rescue efforts.

Key Facts:

  • Hurricane Katrina happened on August 29, 2005.
  • The storm affected New Orleans and the Gulf Coast region.
  • It hit as a Category 4 storm with winds over 135 mph.
  • Nearly 1,400 people died due to the storm.
  • Katrina is the costliest storm in U.S. history, with damages around $200 billion.
  • The Lower 9th Ward, a historical community, was severely flooded.
  • 80% of New Orleans was underwater at the peak of the disaster.
  • Rescue missions involved helicopters and boats to save trapped residents.

Source Information

NPR Home
"Our hearts are broken": Parents of 2 children killed in shooting issue statements

"Our hearts are broken": Parents of 2 children killed in shooting issue statements

August 29, 2025
Two children, Fletcher Merkel and Harper Moyski, were killed in a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. Their families shared statements about their loss, describing their children's lives and the impact of the tragedy.

Key Facts:

  • Two children were killed in a school shooting in Minneapolis.
  • The victims were Fletcher Merkel, age 8, and Harper Moyski, age 10.
  • The shooting occurred at Annunciation Catholic School during a Mass.
  • 18 other people were injured in the incident.
  • Fletcher Merkel's family expressed their grief and shared memories of him.
  • Harper Moyski's family described her as joyful and deeply loved.
  • The families issued statements to the media about the tragedy.

Source Information

Axios
National security or xenophobia? Texas restricts Chinese owning and renting property

National security or xenophobia? Texas restricts Chinese owning and renting property

August 28, 2025
Texas passed a law called Senate Bill 17 that restricts people and companies from China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia from buying and renting property in the state. The law is meant to protect national security, but some argue it discriminates against Chinese-Americans and other groups. The law will take effect on September 1, 2025.

Key Facts:

  • Senate Bill 17 restricts property buying and renting for people from China, Iran, North Korea, and Russia in Texas.
  • The law was signed by Texas Governor Greg Abbott on June 20, 2025.
  • U.S. citizens and green card holders are not affected by this law.
  • Valid visa-holders can still own one primary home in Texas.
  • Opponents claim the law is discriminatory and unfairly targets Chinese-Americans.
  • People face fines over $250,000 or jail if they violate the law.
  • A lawsuit challenged the law's constitutionality, but it was dismissed by a judge.
  • The Chinese American Legal Defense Alliance plans to appeal the lawsuit dismissal.

Source Information

BBC World
'We love you, you will always be with us', says father of Minneapolis shooting victim

'We love you, you will always be with us', says father of Minneapolis shooting victim

August 28, 2025
Fletcher Merkel, an eight-year-old boy, was killed in a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. His father, Jesse Merkel, shared a statement about Fletcher's life and the family's loss. The school was the target of the attack.

Key Facts:

  • Fletcher Merkel, age eight, was killed in a school shooting.
  • The shooting happened at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis.
  • Jesse Merkel, Fletcher's father, made a statement about his son outside the church.
  • Fletcher enjoyed fishing, cooking, and sports.
  • The family expressed their love for Fletcher and their sadness over his death.
  • The incident highlights ongoing concerns about gun violence in the United States.

Source Information

BBC World
RFK Jr. deputy Jim O'Neill chosen as acting CDC director

RFK Jr. deputy Jim O'Neill chosen as acting CDC director

August 28, 2025
Jim O'Neill has been named acting director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This follows the removal of the previous director, Susan Monarez, which led to several resignations at the agency.

Key Facts:

  • Jim O'Neill is currently the deputy secretary of Health and Human Services.
  • O'Neill's appointment aims to support Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s plans at the CDC.
  • The previous CDC director, Susan Monarez, was removed from her position.
  • Monarez has not yet vacated her role despite being fired.
  • O'Neill has been working with Kennedy since November.
  • O'Neill's role involves carrying out the "Make America Healthy Again" initiative.
  • The article mentions a connection between O'Neill and Trump ally Peter Thiel.

Source Information

Axios
Minneapolis school attacker 'obsessed with idea of killing children', officials say

Minneapolis school attacker 'obsessed with idea of killing children', officials say

August 28, 2025
In Minneapolis, an attacker opened fire in a church, killing two children and injuring 18 others. The suspect, Robin Westman, had a history with the church and left anti-religious and politically charged messages. Officials have not determined a clear motive, and the attacker is not linked to any mental health issues.

Key Facts:

  • The attacker killed two children, ages eight and 10, and injured 18 others at a church.
  • Police identified the attacker as Robin Westman, who was once a student at the church's school.
  • The attack involved shooting through windows and leaving a smoke bomb at the scene.
  • Officials stated the attacker expressed hatred towards various groups, including the Jewish community and President Trump.
  • The killer left a note; however, the motive remains unclear.
  • Westman had legally changed their name and identified as female.
  • Guns used in the attack were legally bought, and Westman was not on any watchlist.
  • The attack was described as an act of domestic terrorism by the FBI.

Source Information

BBC Top Stories
Watch: Timelapse shows massive clouds of smoke from California wildfire

Watch: Timelapse shows massive clouds of smoke from California wildfire

August 28, 2025
A wildfire in Fresno County, California, known as the Garnet Fire, has burned nearly 14,000 acres and remains uncontrolled. It started after a lightning strike during a thunderstorm. Over 1,000 firefighters are working to contain it.

Key Facts:

  • The Garnet Fire is located in Fresno County, California.
  • It has burned nearly 14,000 acres (about 5,665 hectares).
  • The fire is still uncontained, meaning it is not under control.
  • The fire began after a lightning strike hit the area.
  • More than 1,000 firefighters are involved in efforts to control the fire.
  • The affected area experienced a thunderstorm before the fire.

Source Information

BBC US
Chaos inside CDC prompts massive staff walkout

Chaos inside CDC prompts massive staff walkout

August 28, 2025
Dozens of staff members at the CDC held a walkout protesting changes within the agency. The protest followed the removal of the CDC director and other senior officials. The turmoil is connected to new policies by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.

Key Facts:

  • CDC staff and leaders protested by walking out after recent changes in leadership.
  • The protest took place near the CDC headquarters in Atlanta.
  • New policies by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. are causing officials to leave.
  • Susan Monarez, the CDC director, was removed from her position shortly after starting.
  • Former director Demetre Daskalakis criticized the new COVID vaccine policies.
  • Other senior officials, including Debra Houry and Daniel Jernigan, have also resigned.
  • Over 750 HHS employees sent a public letter accusing Kennedy of fostering harassment.
  • The protest follows months of turmoil and a recent shooting at CDC headquarters.

Source Information

Axios
How RFK Jr. could exploit the CDC's power vacuum

How RFK Jr. could exploit the CDC's power vacuum

August 28, 2025
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. might gain more influence at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) after several leaders resigned. The departure of these officials has left a gap in leadership, which Kennedy could fill with people who align with his views. This change comes amid tension over vaccine policy changes promoted by Kennedy.

Key Facts:

  • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the U.S. Health Secretary.
  • Several top officials at the CDC resigned, creating a leadership gap.
  • Kennedy could appoint trusted colleagues to fill these roles temporarily.
  • Without a permanent director, Kennedy's influence over CDC decisions could grow.
  • The CDC experienced a staff walkout after recent resignations.
  • The White House plans to announce a new CDC director soon.
  • Previous CDC Director Susan Monarez was dismissed after disagreements with Kennedy.
  • Monarez's lawyers claim she was targeted for not supporting Kennedy's vaccine policies.

Source Information

Axios