A 59-year-old man from Great Harwood, Lancashire, has been arrested on suspicion of malicious communications after England footballer Jess Carter received "disgusting and appalling" racist abuse via social media during the UEFA Women's Euros in July. Lancashire Police made the arrest following an investigation launched by the UK Football Policing Unit (UKFPU), involving social media companies. Cheshire Police Chief Constable Mark Roberts, who leads the investigation, described the messages as "appalling" and stated that such abuse will not be tolerated. Carter, who is from Warwick, temporarily withdrew from social media following the incident.

Lancashire Police released bodycam footage of the arrest and stated their commitment to investigating online hate crimes. Chief Constable Roberts anticipates further arrests in the coming months, emphasizing that offenders cannot hide behind social media profiles to post abusive comments.

Impact Statement: The arrest highlights the ongoing issue of online racist abuse targeting athletes and the commitment of law enforcement to pursue offenders.

On Wednesday, a gunman opened fire at Annunciation Catholic Church in Minneapolis, Minnesota, killing two children and injuring 17 others. The suspect, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the scene. Authorities are investigating the motive. The incident is the deadliest school shooting in the US this year, surpassing all others in terms of casualties since the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, Texas, in 2022.

The number of school shootings in the US varies depending on the definition used, ranging from 8 (Education Week's definition focusing on casualties) to 146 (K-12 School Shooting Database's broad definition including all gun incidents on school property). Other countries, while experiencing occasional school shootings, have significantly lower rates than the US. For instance, Austria experienced its deadliest school shooting in history on June 10th, in Graz, with 10 fatalities and 11 injuries. Education Week's data shows 229 school shootings with casualties since 2018.

Impact Statement: The shooting highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence in US schools and the ongoing debate surrounding gun control legislation.

A mass shooting at Annunciation Church in Minneapolis on Wednesday morning left two children dead and 17 others injured. The attacker, identified as 23-year-old Robin Westman, died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound at the scene. The FBI is investigating the incident as an anti-Catholic hate crime, though a motive has not yet been established. Ten-year-old Weston Halsne, a survivor, described how his friend, Victor, shielded him from gunfire, sustaining injuries in the process.

Westman is believed to have fired dozens of shots through the church windows using three firearms. Police also recovered a smoke bomb. Witnesses reported hearing numerous shots, initially mistaking the sound for construction work. Children were seen fleeing the church covered in blood. Hundreds attended a vigil for the victims Wednesday evening. Those injured are expected to recover.

Impact Statement: The shooting has renewed calls for stricter gun control measures and highlighted the trauma of gun violence on children and communities.

Liz Hopkin, a teacher at Ysgol Dyffryn Aman in Carmarthenshire, was one of three victims in a triple stabbing on April 24, 2024. A 13-year-old student, who was later sentenced to 15 years in detention for attempted murder, stabbed Ms. Hopkin, fellow teacher Fiona Elias, and another pupil. Ms. Hopkin sustained injuries to her leg, neck, and back. In her first interview since the attack, Ms. Hopkin stated she cannot return to work and feels unable to even go near the school.

A multi-agency review, published later, highlighted the student's fascination with war and weapons, troubled childhood, and mental health challenges. The report made 11 recommendations, suggesting that better information sharing between agencies could have helped. Ms. Hopkin welcomed the report but expressed concerns that its recommendations are not new and that insufficient action is being taken to prevent similar incidents. These concerns were echoed by unions and politicians, including Plaid Cymru Senedd member Adam Price, who called for a policy response from the Welsh government. The Welsh government stated it is working with partners to develop more effective, multi-agency approaches to address behavior issues in schools.

Impact Statement: The incident and subsequent report highlight concerns about information sharing between agencies and the need for improved strategies to address behavioral issues and mental health challenges in schools.

Two women, referred to as Rachel and Female D, reported being drugged and raped by Zhenhao Zou within 24 hours of each other in late October 2022. Rachel, who was attacked in China, initially hesitated to report the assault due to fear of insufficient evidence and social stigma. Female D, whose attack was filmed by Zou, contacted UK police after Zou's trial. Metropolitan Police initially believed the reports described the same victim due to their similarities.

Zou was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum of 24 years in June for drugging and raping 10 women (three in the UK, seven in China) between 2019 and 2023. Despite his conviction, police believe he may have assaulted up to 50 more women. Since his trial, 24 additional women have come forward. The investigation revealed Zou used butanediol, which converts to GHB in the body, and researched triazolam, both easily obtainable in China. Furthermore, messages show Zou sought advice on building spy cameras, one being found in his London apartment containing evidence of his crimes.

Rachel expressed regret for not reporting her assault sooner, believing it might have prevented Female D's attack. The Metropolitan Police's investigation into Zou continues, with potential further charges being considered.

Impact Statement: The investigation highlights the ease of accessing date-rape drugs in certain regions and underscores the challenges faced by victims in reporting sexual assaults, particularly across international borders.

Manchester United was eliminated by fourth-tier Grimsby Town on Wednesday in a penalty shootout (12-11) in the second round of the English League Cup. United, who trailed 2-0 at halftime, needed late goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Harry Maguire to force a 2-2 draw. Mbeumo missed the decisive penalty, which hit the crossbar. Grimsby's Charles Vernam, who scored during regulation, described the victory as an "amazing feeling."

Grimsby, currently fourth in League Two, celebrated with fans storming the pitch after the match. The team's lineup included several academy graduates and a Faroe Islands international. United's attack, featuring over £200 million ($270 million) in new signings (Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha, and Benjamin Sesko), failed to deliver a win, with Cunha also missing his penalty. Grimsby midfielder Kieran Green noted that the pressure was on United during the shootout. The loss adds pressure to manager Ruben Amorim, who has 16 wins from 44 matches since his November appointment. United's last second-round appearance was in 2014, when they lost 4-0 to MK Dons.

Impact Statement: The result is a significant setback for Manchester United and increases pressure on manager Ruben Amorim.

On Wednesday, a 23-year-old attacker, Robin Westman, opened fire on a Catholic church in Minneapolis, Minnesota, during Mass. Two children, aged 8 and 10, were killed, and 17 others—14 children and 3 adults—were injured. Westman died by suicide at the scene. Police Chief Brian O'Hara described the act as a "deliberate act of violence against innocent children and other people worshipping," citing its "sheer cruelty and cowardice." The attacker used three firearms—a rifle, shotgun, and pistol—firing dozens of shots through the church windows. A smoke bomb was also found at the scene.

The motive remains under investigation, but the FBI is investigating it as an act of domestic terrorism and a hate crime against Catholics. A note the suspect planned to publish online was discovered and taken down by the FBI. Witnesses described hearing multiple gunshots, with one 10-year-old survivor crediting his friend with saving his life by shielding him from gunfire. The attacker's mother, Mary Grace Westman, had previously worked at the school located within the church complex. President Trump offered condolences and ordered the US flag flown at half-mast at the White House.

Impact Statement: This mass shooting at a church, resulting in the deaths of two children and numerous injuries, has significant implications for national discussions on gun violence, domestic terrorism, and hate crimes. The incident also highlights the vulnerability of schools and religious institutions.

A shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis on Wednesday resulted in the deaths of two children, aged eight and ten, and injuries to 17 others, including 14 children. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara stated that the shooter, a man in his early twenties, armed with a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, opened fire during Mass, spraying bullets through church windows. The shooter died by suicide. The school was evacuated, and families reunited at a designated location.

The FBI is investigating the incident as a possible act of domestic terrorism and hate crime targeting Catholics, according to FBI Director Kash Patel. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz expressed his condolences and offered updates as information became available. President Donald Trump also commented on the tragedy, ordering flags to be flown at half-mast until Sunday. Pope Leo XIV, the first US Pope, expressed profound sadness and offered condolences. The shooting occurred just two days after the start of the school year.

Impact Statement: This mass shooting at a school has caused widespread grief and prompted investigations into potential acts of domestic terrorism and hate crimes, raising concerns about school safety and gun violence in the United States.

A gunman, identified by three law enforcement sources as 23-year-old Robin Westman of suburban Minneapolis, opened fire at Annunciation Catholic Church on during a children's worship service. Westman, described as wearing all black and carrying a rifle, shotgun, and pistol, along with a smoke bomb, was found dead at the scene. Two children, aged eight and ten, were killed, and at least 17 others were injured, with 14 being children; ten of the injured are in critical condition. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O'Hara stated Westman had no "extensive known criminal history" and acted alone.

Mayor Jacob Frey expressed grief for the victims and criticized the typical political response to such events, stating, "Don't just say this is about 'thoughts and prayers' right now. These kids were literally praying." The school, serving preschool through Grade 8, incorporates faith-based learning into its curriculum.

Impact Statement: This mass shooting at a school has resulted in significant loss of life and widespread trauma, sparking renewed debate about gun violence in the United States.

British Transport Police (BTP) announced on Wednesday that far-right activist Tommy Robinson (Stephen Yaxley-Lennon), 42, will face no further action following his arrest in connection with an assault at St Pancras railway station on July 28. BTP investigated the incident, which involved footage showing Robinson near a person lying motionless on the floor. The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) determined there was insufficient evidence to proceed with charges, citing the alleged victim's refusal to provide a statement. Robinson, who was arrested at Luton Airport on August 4, claimed self-defense on X (formerly Twitter).

The BTP's investigation included gathering CCTV footage and witness statements. A man was found with serious but non-life-threatening injuries at the station in July and later discharged from hospital. Robinson was released on bail following his arrest on suspicion of grievous bodily harm (GBH).

Impact Statement: The decision not to prosecute highlights the challenges of pursuing assault cases without the cooperation of the alleged victim.

At least two children died in a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. Minneapolis Police and the city's mayor confirmed the fatalities, with police reporting three deaths total, including the shooter. More than a dozen others were wounded in the incident. Governor Tim Walz stated he was praying for the victims and teachers. President Donald Trump confirmed that the FBI was on the scene and monitoring the situation. The City of Minneapolis announced via X that the shooter had been contained and there was no longer an active threat.

Impact Statement: This tragic school shooting resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries, sparking widespread grief and concern about gun violence.

On Wednesday, a gunman opened fire at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis during a morning mass, killing two children aged 8 and 10, and injuring 17 others, 14 of whom were children. Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara stated the shooter, a male in his early 20s with no extensive known criminal history, used a rifle, shotgun, and pistol. The shooter, who appeared to be wearing black cargo pants and deployed a smoke device, died by suicide inside the church. Two injured children remain in critical condition.

Mayor Jacob Frey expressed the immense pain of the families affected, highlighting the gravity of the tragedy. The Department of Homeland Security is monitoring the situation, and Minnesota state officials have been briefed. Children’s Minnesota hospital confirmed it has admitted five children, declining further comment. Minneapolis Police believe the incident involved a sole shooter and that there is no ongoing threat to the community. The investigation into the motive continues.

Impact Statement: This mass shooting at a school during a religious service resulted in significant loss of life and widespread trauma, prompting a major law enforcement response and highlighting concerns about gun violence.

Fire crews have been battling a large moorland fire covering approximately 10 square miles (25 sq km) on Langdale Moor in the North York Moors National Park since August 11. The fire, described as a "significant wildfire" by North Yorkshire's chief fire officer Jonathan Dyson, has been complicated by the discovery of unexploded World War II bombs and tank shells. Over 18 explosions have occurred as the fire burned through peat to previously hidden ordnance, forcing crews to adopt a "very defensive fire-fighting strategy" in some areas.

Despite making significant progress in containing the fire earlier, a change in wind and temperature caused the blaze to more than double in 24 hours. Up to 60 firefighters and 10 appliances are currently committed to the operation, with additional support requested from across England through National Resilience. This additional support is expected to include up to 10 more appliances.

Impact Statement: The unexploded ordnance significantly hampered firefighting efforts, expanding the scale and duration of the incident. The request for national assets highlights the severity of the situation.

Three people, including the shooter, are dead and at least 20 injured following a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in south Minneapolis on Wednesday. The shooting occurred during morning drop-off, with the first call to law enforcement at approximately 8:27 am local time, shortly after a scheduled mass. Children’s Minnesota hospital confirmed five children were admitted for care. Authorities reported the shooter is dead and there is no longer an active threat to the community. Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Minneapolis Police Department, the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the State Patrol responded to the scene. Statements of concern and prayer were released by Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey, US Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, and Donald Trump. The incident marks the fourth shooting in Minneapolis within 24 hours.

Impact Statement: This incident highlights the ongoing issue of gun violence in the United States and its impact on schools and communities.

Minneapolis police responded to a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in the city's south end. Authorities reported that the shooter had been contained and there is no active threat to the community. A reunification zone has been established at the school for families of students.

Governor Tim Walz confirmed the shooting on X, stating he was praying for the children and teachers. President Donald Trump also released a statement on Truth Social, saying he had been briefed and that the FBI was on the scene. The number of casualties, if any, remains unclear.

Impact Statement: The incident caused significant concern within the community and prompted responses from state and federal officials. The event follows recent false reports of active shooters on college campuses.

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz reported on Wednesday that law enforcement was responding to a shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis. The governor stated on X (formerly Twitter) that he had been briefed on the incident and would provide further updates as information became available. This is a developing story.

A shooting at Annunciation Catholic School in Minneapolis on the first week back from summer break left three people dead, including the shooter, and more than a dozen injured. Minnesota Governor Tim Walz confirmed the incident and expressed his condolences, stating he would provide updates as information becomes available. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey also confirmed that children were among the deceased. The City of Minneapolis announced via X that the shooter had been "contained" and that there was no active threat to the community. US President Donald Trump stated that the FBI was on the scene and offered prayers for those involved.

The incident occurred during the first week of school after the summer break. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

Impact Statement: This school shooting resulted in multiple fatalities and injuries, prompting a swift response from local and federal authorities. The incident has reignited concerns about gun violence and school safety in the United States.