Luigi Mangione, suspected of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, resisted police and shouted at the media before an extradition hearing in Pennsylvania. “It’s completely out of touch and is an insult to the intelligence of the American people and their lived experience!” he yelled. The judge denied his bail request, and gave New York prosecutors 30 days to produce an extradition warrant. (UPI)
A judge blocked the proposed $24.6 billion merger between Kroger and Albertsons, citing potential harm to consumers. The FTC argued that the merger would stifle competition, raise grocery prices, and worsen working conditions for employees. Arizona AG Kris Mayes supported the injunction, asserting that the decision protects residents from reduced choices, higher prices, and job losses. (UPI)
The Franklin Fire in Malibu erupted, scorching over 2,700 acres and prompting evacuations. Some homes were destroyed, but firefighters’ efforts minimized further damage. Approximately 18,000 individuals and 8,100 structures were impacted, with many under evacuation orders or warnings. Officials attributed the fire’s rapid spread to Santa Ana winds. It remains uncontained. (CBS News)
A bankruptcy judge rejected The Onion’s parent company’s bid to buy Infowars, ruling that the auction process was unfair. The judge stated that the winning bid was not the best one available and criticized the lack of transparency. The decision on a new auction is pending, postponing The Onion’s plans to alter Infowars’ content. (NBC News)
State Sen. Jon Bramnick called for a “limited” state of emergency in New Jersey due to unexplained drone sightings across several counties. The drones, larger than hobbyist models, have triggered security concerns near military installations and President-elect Donald Trump’s golf course. Multiple state and federal agencies are investigating, with the FAA imposing flight restrictions. (UPI)
