Girl, 12, tragically dies after drinking smoothie made in an unwashed blender

January 28, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

Girl, 12, tragically dies after drinking smoothie made in an unwashed blender

A 12-year-old girl tragically passed away after she drank a smoothie that was made in an unwashed blender.

Mia St Hilaire suffered a fatal allergic reaction in August 2023 after drinking a milkshake from the Pop Inn Café on Southwark Park Road, London, per BBC News.

Despite being rushed to the hospital, the young girl could not be saved.

Mia passed away after drinking a smoothie from an unwashed blender. Credit: miniseries/Getty

Investigations by Southwark Council revealed that the café operator, Baris Yucel, failed to clean the blender before preparing Mia’s drink.

Traces of hazelnuts or almonds from a previous order are believed to have triggered her fatal anaphylactic shock.

Southwark Council argued that Mia’s death could have been prevented if proper food safety measures had been followed.

CCTV footage confirmed that the blender was not cleaned, a critical oversight that led to the contamination of Mia’s drink.

In December 2023, Yucel, 47, pleaded guilty at Croydon Magistrates’ Court to six charges, including serving food containing an allergic ingredient, failing to display allergen information, and neglecting to address cross-contamination risks.

Screenshot 2025-01-28 at 12.44.36.jpg

The incident occurred at the Pop Inn Cafe. Credit: Google Maps

On Friday, January 24, he was fined £18,000 (approximately $22,000) and sentenced to 100 hours of community service.

In a heartfelt statement per Your Local Guardian, Mia’s parents, Adrian and Chanel, expressed their grief: “We think of Mia every day and knowing her death could potentially have been prevented so simply, only adds to how heartbroken we are as a family.

“We hope this conviction and fine sends a loud message to businesses serving food and drinks across the country, of the devastating consequences of failing to take food safety seriously.”

The family’s attorney, Michelle Victor, emphasized the dire consequences of non-compliance with food safety protocols.

Meanwhile, the Natasha Allergy Research Foundation, a UK food allergy charity, condemned the incident as preventable, writing on Instagram: “This is yet another death of a young person from a food allergy that should never have happened.

“We have met Mia’s parents on several occasions, and our hearts are absolutely broken for them and their terrible loss.”

The foundation added that allergen safety rules are essential, stating: “Food allergies are not a choice or preference, but a serious medical condition that can for some be fatal.

“How many more people must be hospitalized or die before all food operators realize these rules are not an optional extra, but essential for keeping their customers safe?”

While the café has since been granted a five-star Food Hygiene Rating on two occasions, the local authority continues to monitor its operations.

A lawyer for Yucel stated that the businessman has shown “genuine remorse,” adding that “a day does not go by” when Yucel does not think of Mia or her family.

News

Jan. 6 rioter pardoned by President Trump is fatally shot by police during traffic stop just days after

January 28, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

Jan. 6 rioter pardoned by President Trump is fatally shot by police during traffic stop just days after

An Indiana man – recently pardoned by former President Donald Trump for his role in the 2021 US Capitol riot – has been fatally shot by a sheriff’s deputy during a traffic stop, authorities have confirmed.

Matthew Huttle, 42, of Hobart, was killed on Sunday by a Jasper County sheriff’s deputy, according to state police.

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Matthew Huttle received a pardon from President Trump mere days ago. Credit: Porter County Sheriff’s Office

Fox News affiliate KTVU reports that officials said the deputy attempted to arrest Huttle during the stop, which escalated into what state police described as “an altercation”.

“An altercation took place between the suspect and the officer, which resulted in the officer firing his weapon and fatally wounding the suspect,” police stated.

Authorities also revealed that Huttle was armed during the traffic stop.

“The investigation also shows that during the traffic stop, the suspect was in possession of a firearm,” state police added in a statement.

The circumstances surrounding the traffic stop, including what may have prompted it, remain unclear. No further details have been released.

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Huttle was fatally shot following an “altercation” with a police officer. Credit: FBI

Jasper County Sheriff Patrick Williamson offered condolences in the wake of the fatal encounter. “Our condolences go out to the family of the deceased as any loss of life is traumatic to those that were close to Mr. Huttle,” the sheriff said.

Nick Barnes, a lawyer who was representing Huttle in unrelated motor vehicle cases, expressed shock over the incident. “I plan to find out a lot more about it,” Barnes said, adding that he was unaware of what led to the shooting.

Jasper County Sheriff Patrick Williamson told ABC7 Chicago in a statement. “I will release the officer’s name once I have approval from the State Police Detectives.”

Role In Jan 6, 2021

Huttle’s background recently drew national attention after he received a pardon from Trump for a misdemeanor charge related to the Capitol riot.

In 2023, Huttle was sentenced to six months in custody after pleading guilty to entering a restricted building.

He had traveled to Washington, D.C., on January 6, 2021, with his uncle, Dale Huttle, to attend the pro-Trump rally that culminated in the storming of the Capitol.

The Independent reports that Dale Huttle was later accused of attacking a police officer with a flagpole bearing an upside-down American flag, and telling his nephew: “We ought to bum rush the Capitol building!”

Court filings state that Huttle spent 16 minutes inside the Capitol and recorded video footage during that time.

“He is not a true believer in any political cause,” Huttle’s defense attorney, Andrew Hemmer, said in a court filing at the time. “He instead went to the rally because he thought it would be a historic moment and he had nothing better to do after getting out of jail” for a driving-related offense.

President Trump’s Pardon For ‘Patriots’

President Trump’s pardon for those involved in January 6, 2021 came just hours after he returned to the Oval Office last Monday.

Trump has claimed that his supporters were unfairly treated by the Justice Department. Credit: Anna Moneymaker / Getty

On his first day back in the Oval Office, the 78-year-old signed nearly 50 executive orders which included granting clemency to the hundreds of participants who breached the Capitol on January 6, 2021, to stop Congress from reaffirming Joe Biden’s victory over him in the 2020 presidential election.

While many charges were for unlawful entry and disorderly conduct, several defendants faced harsher penalties for more serious crimes.

Trump signed a document commuting 14 prison sentences. He also ordered the attorney general to dismiss all pending indictments related to the riot, essentially eradicating the Biden Justice Department’s effort to hold those who participated in the incident accountable.

Calling the rioters “patriots” and “hostages”, Trump has claimed that his supporters were unfairly treated by the Justice Department.

“I will say this, they’ve been in jail for a long time already. I see murderers in this country get two years, one year, and maybe no time. So they’ve already been in jail for a long time. These people have been destroyed,” he told reporters.

“What they’ve done to these people is outrageous. Even people that were aggressive, and in many cases, I believe they happen to be outside agitators. But what do I know? But I think they were. I think they were outside agitators. They were outside agitators. And obviously, the FBI was involved,” he added.

Trump’s pardoned over 1,500 “patriots”. Credit: Win McNamee / Getty

According to the Justice Department, the January 6 riot resulted in 1,583 criminal charges. As of August 2024, 562 people had been sentenced to time in federal prison, per the New York Post.

The investigation into the circumstances of Huttle’s death is ongoing.

Health

How to Get Rid of Blackheads

January 28, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

How to Get Rid of Blackheads

Discover the causes of blackheads, learn effective prevention strategies, and explore targeted treatments to achieve clearer, healthier skin.

What’s in the article?

Blackheads are tiny dark spots that appear when pores are clogged with sebum and dead skin cells. Unlike whiteheads, they remain open at the surface, causing the trapped material to oxidise and turn black.

There are primarily two types of clogged pores or comedones:

Open Comedones: Typical blackheads, where the clogged pore remains open, leading to oxidation and a dark appearance.
Closed Comedones: Often referred to as whiteheads, these occur when the clogged pore remains closed, preventing oxidation.

Common areas for blackheads include:

Face:
Particularly on the nose, forehead, and chin. These areas, known as the T-zone, tend to have higher concentrations of sebaceous glands, likely to present increased oil production and a higher likelihood of blackheads forming.
Back:
Especially the upper back and shoulders. The skin on the upper back and shoulders is thicker and has larger sebaceous glands, making it more prone to blackheads.
Chest:
Due to higher oil production in these areas. The chest has a high density of oil glands, which can produce excess sebum that mixes with dead skin cells to clog pores and form blackheads.

What Causes Blackheads?

Excess Oil Production:
Overactive sebaceous glands produce too much oil, increasing the likelihood of clogged pores. When the skin produces excess sebum, it can accumulate and combine with other debris, creating an environment where pores become blocked and blackheads form.
Dead Skin Cells:
An accumulation of dead skin cells can mix with sebum, leading to clogged pores. Dead skin cells that do not shed properly can block the pilosebaceous follicles and contribute to the development of blackheads.
Hormones:
Hormonal changes, particularly during puberty, menstruation, or pregnancy, can increase sebum production. Fluctuations in hormone levels can stimulate the sebaceous glands, resulting in increased oil production and a higher chance of blackheads.
Skincare Habits:
Infrequent cleansing or usage of comedogenic (pore-clogging) products can contribute to blackhead formation.
Diet and Lifestyle:
High-fat diets, smoking, and stress can exacerbate oil production and skin issues. Unhealthy lifestyle choices and dietary habits could boost sebum production and aggravate skin conditions, making blackheads more likely.
Genetics:
Genetics can influence the skin‘s oil production and pore structure, increasing the likelihood of developing blackheads.

Treatment for Blackheads

Dermatologists advise that there is no immediate way to safely remove blackheads from your skin without risk of infection and inflammation, but there are a few things you can try to help reduce their appearance, these include:

Steam:
Steam your face for 5-10 minutes to open up the pores by softening the debris and sebum inside, making it easier to cleanse deeply and remove blackheads effectively.
Be very careful with hot water and steam; lean over a bowl of hot water with a towel over your head or use a facial steamer.
Cleanse the skin daily, but without excess:
Overwashing can strip the skin of its natural oils, prompting increased sebum production to compensate, potentially leading to more blackheads. It is therefore important to use gentle products whenever possible.
Avoid crushing Blackheads:
Avoid crushing at the skin to try and remove the blackheads, as this may aggravate the skin condition further and cause more damage.
Pore Strips:
Try pore strips to get rid of blackheads on the nose or other affected areas. Once activated with water it adheres to pores and removes blackheads and impurities from the skin‘s surface.

Skincare Routine to Prevent Blackheads

Maintaining a consistent and effective skincare routine can help prevent blackheads and target the underlying causes of their formation.

Implementing the following routine may help prevent blackheads:

1. Cleanser (AM and PM):

For both morning and evening, cleanse and purify the skin thoroughly to remove accumulated excess oil and makeup. Try NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Wash for blemish-prone skin with Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide to deeply cleanse and purify pores and help reduce the appearance of blemishes.

Face Cleansing Products

2. Scrub/Exfoliation (2-3 times a week)

The NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Anti Blemish Scrub is ideal for use right after your cleanser to achieve a deeper cleanse and get rid of dead skin cells. Also formulated with Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide it helps to unclog pores and refine skin texture. Incorporate it into your evening routine 2-3 times a week for the optimal results.

3. Toner (Optional – AM and PM):

Follow with an alcohol-free toner to balance the skin‘s pH and prevent blackheads from forming. This could help to remove any residual impurities that cleansing might have missed, tightening the pores to reduce the likelihood of clogging, and decreasing oiliness to prevent excess sebum buildup.
The NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Toner helps to hydrate and to control skin oiliness while refininf and purifyind pores.

4. Serum (AM Only)

You may consider serums containing Niacinamide to address blackheads, to help regulate oil production. This may also help to minimise clogged pores and reduce the formation of blackheads for a clearer complexion.

NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Rebalance & Protect Serum is enriched with Pro-Vitamin B5, Niacinamide, and Hyaluronic Acid to help reduce imperfections, soothe the skin, and strengthen its barrier, effectively preventing the buildup of excess oil and debris that contribute to blackheads.

NIVEA SUN UV Specialist Derma Skin Clear SPF 50+ Fluid

5. Chemical Exfoliation (PM only):

Exfoliation is generally recommended 1-2 times a week and involves applying an exfoliating product to the skin, leaving it on for a few minutes, then rinsing thoroughly with water. However, NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Chemical Exfoliator is a gentle skin care product that can be left on and used nightly. It contains Salicylic Acid, Glycolic Acid and Niacinamide to gently exfoliate skin, helping to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores, preventing the build-up of debris that causes blackheads. This exfoliating treatment is designed to be used in the evening as the last step in your skincare routine, allowing it to work throughout the night. Read the instructions for use on the packaging carefully.

6. Moisturiser (AM and PM):

If your skin still feels dry, consider using a lightweight, non-comedogenic moisturiser may help to prevent blackheads. This will help prevent the skin from overproducing oil and reduce the risk of blackhead formation. However, avoid using a moisturiser after NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Night Scrub as this may reduce its effectiveness.

Face Moisturising Products

7. Sunscreen:

Apply a broad-spectrum facial sunscreen for immediate protection from UVA/UVB rays. With Anti-Blemish Complex and Niacinamide, try NIVEA SUN UV Specialist Derma Skin Clear SPF 50+ to help prevent clogged pores and blemishes by absorbing excess sebum from the skin‘s surface, leaving no oily sensation.

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Blackheads

Healthy Diet:
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Nutrient-dense foods support overall skin health and reduce the likelihood of excess oil production and clogged pores.
Hydration:
Drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated. Proper hydration helps maintain skin elasticity and and reduces the risk of sebum overproduction.
Avoid Touching Your Face:
Reduce the transfer of oil and dirt from hands to face. Minimising contact with the face helps prevent the introduction of bacteria and oils that can contribute to blackheads and other imperfections on the face.
Manage Stress:
Practise stress-relief techniques like meditation and exercise. Lowering stress levels reduces the production of stress hormones that can stimulate oil glands and contribute to blackhead formation.

How to get rid of blackheads

Facts Overview

Consistency:
Stick to your skincare routine daily for the best results in preventing blackheads.

Clean Makeup Tools:
Regularly clean makeup brushes and sponges to avoid bacteria buildup that can contribute to blackheads.

Avoid Touching Your Face:
Reduce the transfer of oil and dirt from your hands to your face.

NIVEA Derma Skin Clear

The innovative NIVEA Derma Skin Clear range is formulated with clearer, refined skin in mind. Harnessing the clarifying combination of Salicylic Acid and Niacinamide to unclog pores and reduce the appearance of whiteheads and blackheads with regular use. If your skin is prone to blemishes and breakouts, this high-quality range might be the solution you’ve been looking for.

As always, when applying a new product, always follow the instructions on the label and consult a dermatologist in the case of an unexpected reaction or if there is no improvement after 4 to 8 weeks of regular use.

NIVEA Derma Skin Clear Range

Blackheads are affected by factors such as excess oil production, hormonal changes, poor skincare habits, and genetics. Follow a skincare routine consisting of gentle cleansing and regular exfoliation. Follow through with the use of non-comedogenic products to effectively prevent blackheads. Additionally, adopt a healthy lifestyle to further support skin health. For stubborn blackheads and to avoid skin damage, seek professional advice for effective treatment.

Health

DEEPEST and LONGEST INGROWN NAIL REMOVED

January 28, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

More information about nail surgery for chronically ingrowing toenails.

Nail surgery is a procedure to remove either the entire nail plate (total nail avulsion), or slivers from either side of the nail (partial nail avulsion/s), under local anaesthetic.

This can be undertaken by a podiatrist, suitably-trained GP or an orthopaedic surgeon.

You may need to undergo surgery when you develop one of the following conditions:

Ingrowing toenail (onychocryptosis)
Thickened toenail (onychogryphosis)
Severe curvature of the nail (involution)
Trauma to the nail (caused by e.g. fungal infection, onychomycosis)

NHS or Private? You can have the procedure under the NHS, or performed privately. The wait time to be seen on the NHS is around 18 weeks for an initial assessment, and the procedure is typically performed 4-6 weeks after that. Privately, such as with Oxfordshire Chiropody, you can be assessed within a week of your enquiry, and the procedure performed a few days later. I am currently making plans for a Straight to Surgery service, to minimise faff without compromising on quality and standards of care.

What happens?

Nail surgery is performed under local anaesthetic; where only the affected toe is injected with anaesthetic and numbed. This is the horrible bit and you will feel a sting. However, you are awake throughout the surgery and you are still be able to feel your toe being moved but you will not feel any pain. The operation takes about 10 minutes however expect the appointment to last 60 minutes. The anaesthetic wears off within a couple of hours.

Most patients tell me they feel no discomfort after the anaesthetic has worn off, but you are free to take paracetamol (as long as this is not contraindicated for you) to keep any discomfort at bay.

There are two types of nail surgery:

Partial nail avulsion – removal of one or both sides of the nail affected
Total nail avulsion – complete removal of the affected nail

Will the nail grow back?

Once the whole of the nail or part of the nail is removed, phenol is applied to the nail bed and should ensure that the nail does not re-grow. Phenol kills off the ‘nail-making’ cells in the nail matrix. There is a very small chance the nail will regrow, despite using phenol, but this is rare (5%).

Before Nail Surgery Ideally, any soft tissue infection should have been dealt with (antibiotics) prior to surgery. This is just because an infection will change the pH of the skin and can stop the anaesthetic from working effectively. This is one reason why I always ask to see you for an initial appointment before proceeding to nail surgery.

On the day You should eat as normal. Please arrange transport home, as you are not insured to drive whilst your toe is numb following nail surgery. A parent or guardian must accompany patients under sixteen years of age. Plan to rest with your feet up for the rest of the day. Bring a pair of open-toed sandals or a slipper with the toe area cut out.

After Nail Surgery

On returning home, rest with your foot up until the following day.

Do not remove the dressing; keep it clean and dry until your next visit (usually within 2 days of surgery). If there is oozing through the dressing, add an additional dressing on top (which will be provided on the day of surgery).

Take Paracetamol-based painkillers to ease any pain or throbbing.

Avoid walking long distances, kicking, swimming, running or jumping in the early stages of healing (first 2 weeks).

It normally takes around 4 – 6 weeks for the toe to heal, but if you have any concerns after surgery these can be discussed at your dressing appointments.

Considerations before Nail Surgery You will be required to redress your own toe/s every other day for a minimum of 2 weeks. Can you bend down to achieve this? If not, this does not preclude you from surgery but other arrangements will need to be made, such as seeing a Practice Nurse or asking for help from a family member. If you require routine footcare anyway, and have not suffered any nasty infections second to problems with your ingrowing toenails, long-term conservative care may be a better option for you. This is a regular visit to a podiatrist, typically every 6-8 weeks to keep your feet in tip-top shape. The problematic nails can be gently and painlessly ‘resected’ at each appointment. This involves removing a sliver of nail on the oblique, so that as the nail grows, it does so away from the flesh of the toe. If you would like to know more about Nail Surgery, please get in touch

News

DJ Unk’s cause of death is confirmed

January 28, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

DJ Unk’s cause of death is confirmed

Rapper DJ Unk’s cause of death has been disclosed.

DJ Unk died on Friday at age 43. Credit: Michael Buckner / Getty

The 43-year-old musician, best known for his hits ‘Walk It Out’ and ‘2 Step,’ died on Friday (January 24), his wife, Sherkita Long-Platt confirmed to TMZ.

Long-Platt took to Facebook just hours after his passing to share the heartbreaking news, writing: “Please respect me and my family. I just lost my husband and my kids just lost their father. Our life will never be the same. I LOVE YOU ANTHONY FOREVER.”

The bereaved wife revealed to the outlet that Unk, whose real name was Anthony Leonard Platt, passed away after suffering a heart attack.

She also addressed baseless rumors surrounding his death, stating emphatically that her husband did not use drugs.

The late rapper’s label, Big Oomp Records, shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, in which they called Unk a “true ATL legend”.

“It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that we announce the passing of a true ATL legend, Anthony Platt better known as ‘DJ Unk,’” the post read. “On behalf of Big Oomp Records and the BOR Family, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the countless fans who were touched by his artistry and spirit.”

Platt was remembered as “not just a legendary DJ, rapper, and producer, but a true cornerstone of our label,” and as someone who left a global imprint that “will be cherished forever.”

The label penned that his work “left an indelible mark on the industry, and his legacy will continue to inspire artists, DJs, and fans alike for years to come”.

“His energy, creativity, and commitment to the craft will never be forgotten,” the tribute concluded. “Rest in peace, Unk. You will forever be missed.”

The rapper was best known for his hits ‘Walk It Out’ and ‘2 Step’. Credit: Paras Griffin / Getty

Unk’s meteoric rise to stardom began with his debut album, Beat’n Down Yo Block!, released in 2006.

The album spawned two massive singles, ‘Walk It Out’ and ‘2 Step,’ that became cultural staples.

‘Walk It Out’ charted in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 chart and received a remix featuring André 3000 and Jim Jones. In a 2023 interview reflecting on the collaboration, André 3000 recalled: “The beat was so jammin’ that you just wanted to get on it.”

The late rapper followed up his success with a sophomore album, 2econd Season, in 2008, which peaked at No. 15 on Billboard’s Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart.

To honor Unk’s life and legacy, a candlelight vigil was held Sunday (January 26) night in his Atlanta neighborhood.

Our thoughts are with DJ Unk’s family, friends, and fans at this time.

News

Woman who died alongside fiancé after drinking limoncello on Christmas Eve sent heartbreaking final text

January 28, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

Woman who died alongside fiancé after drinking limoncello on Christmas Eve sent heartbreaking final text

A woman who tragically died alongside her fiancé after drinking limoncello on Christmas Eve sent a chilling final text to her family.

The couple was discovered dead in Vietnam. Credit: Copyright by 8Creative.vn / Getty

Greta Marie Otteson, 33, and Arno Els Quinton, 36, were enjoying a vacation at a hotel in Vietnam over the Christmas period after moving to the country in February 2024.

The couple, who had recently announced their engagement in a YouTube video, were in Hoi An, a picturesque coastal city, when tragedy struck.

As reported by The Mirror, Greta and Arno were discovered dead at the Hoi An Silverbell Villa on Boxing Day (December 26). Investigators suspect the couple consumed “homemade” limoncello tainted with methanol, a highly toxic industrial chemical.

“Police forensics established the limoncello, which had been delivered, was the source,” a source told The Times.

Greta was a social media manager from Wales, and Arno was a musician and live streamer from South Africa.

Per a report by The Times, Greta sent her parents a tragic final text message via WhatsApp on Christmas Eve, complaining of what she described as the “worst hangover ever.” She also mentioned seeing “black spots” in her vision.

Despite their symptoms, the couple decided to sleep it off, declining an offer from a concerned friend to take them to the hospital. “Sadly, I think it was too late by then,” a source close to the families revealed.

The next morning, hotel staff found Greta dead in her room, while Arno was discovered lifeless in a separate room nearby.

A Quang Nam Provincial Police spokesperson stated at the time: “There were no signs of ransacking at the scene. The victims’ belongings and phones were untouched.”

A spokesperson for the UK Foreign Office confirmed that they were supporting the couple’s families and were in contact with the local police.

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Police believe the couple drank methanol-laced limoncello. Credit: Quangnam Provincial Police

Methanol, often found in products like fuel and solvents, is sometimes illegally added to homemade alcohol to increase potency.

While it looks and smells similar to ethanol – the type of alcohol found in beverages – methanol is highly toxic. As little as 25ml can be lethal.

Symptoms of methanol poisoning include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, blurred vision, and abdominal pain, which can appear up to 24 hours after consumption, per Gov.uk.

Without immediate medical attention, methanol poisoning can cause blindness, brain damage, and death.

Greta’s devastated dad said the family wants justice for the couple. “Our aim is to bring the people who supplied the alcohol and killed Greta and Arno to justice,” Paul said. “At some time in the future, we will have a memorial service for them both.

“Arno’s family expressed a wish that they should be together, which we wholeheartedly agree [with],” he added.

The families also issued a joint statement emphasizing their commitment to justice: “Whilst the investigation is underway, procedural requirements and due diligence are being followed.

“Both families are aligned with the authorities in our shared goal of holding those responsible accountable,” they concluded.

Entertainment

Chrissy Teigen announces heartbreaking family update

January 28, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

Chrissy Teigen announces heartbreaking family update

Chrissy Teigen has shared some devastating news with her fans.

Married to musician John Legend, the couple shares four children: Luna, Miles, and their younger twins. Known for their playful social media posts, the family often gives fans a peek into their everyday moments, from heartfelt milestones to laugh-out-loud chaos.

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The Teigen-Legend family on Christmas 2024. Credit: Instagram

Chrissy, who has been open about her parenting journey, balances humor with vulnerability as she shares the highs and lows of raising her little ones.

But sadly, the family is mourning the loss of their cherished French bulldog, Penny, who passed away peacefully in her sleep.

Penny, born on the couple’s wedding day 11 years ago, was a constant presence through their life’s milestones. Teigen shared on Instagram, “Our beautiful little tripod queen, penny, passed on peacefully in her sleep today. Born the same day John and I got married, 11 years ago, she was there for us for every baby, every loss, every joy.”

“She loved nothing more than being loved, having her nub rubbed and destroying any ball she could get her paw on, even til her last weeks,” she added.

The model added: “Never forget that while every pup is just a few chapters in your long life, for them you are their entire book, their entire lives. Oh penny. We were so beyond lucky to have you. Say hi to Puddy and Pippa for us. You are all together again.”

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Credit: Instagram

Penny, affectionately known as the “tripod queen” due to her three-legged stature, was adopted by the couple in 2014. At that time, Teigen told PEOPLE, “She’s a little tripod. She has been abused, and we are so excited to welcome her to the family.”

Over the years, Penny became an integral part of their household, which also includes other pets like dogs, birds, a hamster, and a bearded dragon.

Penny’s passing comes shortly after the family faced another challenge. Earlier this month, they evacuated their home due to wildfires in Los Angeles, ensuring the safety of their four children and multiple pets.

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Credit: Instagram

Teigen shared updates from their hotel stay, showcasing their commitment to their animal family members.

The Teigen-Legend family’s openness about their love for their pets offers a touching reminder of the joy and companionship animals bring into our lives.

Entertainment

People demand Kanye West’s wife be locked up after being spotted in McDonald’s with ‘no underwear’

January 28, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

People demand Kanye West’s wife be locked up after being spotted in McDonald’s with ‘no underwear’

People are outraged after Kanye West’s wife Bianca Censori was spotted in McDonald’s leaving as little to the imagination as she possibly could.

The rapper, 47, and Bianca, 29, were photographed ordering food at a McDonald’s in Tokyo, Japan, with the latter appearing not to wear any panties underneath her sheer spandex leggings.

Bianca’s family are reportedly concerned for her wellbeing. Credit: WWD/Getty

She paired the revealing look with a strapless top and wore her signature dark locks slicked back. In contrast, her husband donned a green jacket with white pants.

The individual who spotted the pair wrote on X: “My friend just had a little chat with Kanye West at a McDonalds in Tokyo.”

Many have since taken to social media to express their disapproval, with one writing: “Something should be done it’s indecent exposure FFS.”

Another added: “I wonder if an ordinary unknown person did the same thing, will they not get done for public indecency or exposure or something. No-one wants to see private intimate parts in public.”

A third penned: “She needs locking up!…. And him!!”

Kanye recently revealed his net worth after taking sole ownership of his Yeezy brand after Adidas cut ties.

If you cast your mind back to 2022, Forbes announced that West was no longer a billionaire after the giant sporting brand parted ways with him.

West faced widespread backlash following a series of controversies, including wearing a “White Lives Matter” shirt at Paris Fashion Week and posting antisemitic remarks on X.

Among the tweets was a declaration that he would go “Death Con 3” on Jewish people, along with claims that rapper Diddy was being influenced by Jewish individuals.

The fallout was swift. High-profile brands, including Balenciaga, GAP, Vogue, Adidas, and others, cut ties with him following his remarks.

Adidas, whose partnership with West accounted for a substantial portion of his wealth, released a strongly worded statement after his remarks, saying: “Adidas does not tolerate antisemitism and any other sort of hate speech.

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Credit: Rachpoot/Bauer-Griffin/GC Images/Getty Images

“[West’s] recent comments and actions have been unacceptable, hateful, and dangerous, and they violate the company’s values of diversity and inclusion, mutual respect, and fairness.”

The company added: “After a thorough review, the company has taken the decision to terminate the partnership with [West] immediately, end production of Yeezy branded products, and stop all payments to [West] and his companies. Adidas will stop the Adidas Yeezy business with immediate effect.”

This decision caused a reported $1.4 billion loss in West’s net worth, effectively removing him from Forbes’ billionaire list. CNN Business estimated West’s remaining fortune at $400 million.

Well, it appears as if things have turned around for the controversial rapper.

West has unveiled his staggering net worth, credited to his music portfolio and sole ownership of the Yeezy brand. The revelation was shared with his 20.5 million Instagram followers on Friday, offering a glimpse into his financial resurgence.

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World’s largest human migration in full swing, as millions in China head home for Chinese New Year

January 28, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

World’s largest human migration in full swing, as millions in China head home for Chinese New Year

The 40-day Spring Festival travel rush, or Chunyun, is expected to boost domestic consumption as China struggles to get out of an economic slump.

SHANGHAI: Millions across China are returning to their hometowns from cities to celebrate their country’s most important festival: Chinese New Year, which begins on Wednesday (Jan 29) this year.

At Shanghai’s Hongqiao Railway Station, the number of passengers passing through the city’s busiest transport hub doubled at the peak of China’s annual ongoing travel rush.

The 40-day Spring Festival travel rush – or Chunyun – was expected to have peaked on Sunday, two days before Chinese New Year eve when people typically have reunion dinners with their families.

Chunyun usually begins 15 days before the first day of Chinese New Year.

This annual human migration is the largest in the world. On top of people travelling back home, many holidaymakers are also hoping to make good use of the eight-day public holiday.

“It’s been about a year since I went home. I’ve been away from my parents and family; I’m really looking forward to it,” one commuter told CNA.

“After working hard for a year, it feels so good to finally go back home.”

CONSUMPTION EXPECTED TO RISE

For Yang Junhua, station master at the city’s Hongqiao Railway Station, he and his staff have to tackle the issues of high passenger volume and train frequency.

“During the 40 days of spring travel, Shanghai Railway expects to handle over 16 million passengers, averaging 400,000 daily – a 13 per cent increase year-on-year,” he said.

Yang added that railway stations in Shanghai are also planning to deploy an additional 221 pairs of train services during this period, while facilities have been refurbished ahead of Chunyun – including those that cater to children and nursing mothers.

Travelers line up to board their train at a railway station ahead of the Lunar New Year in Nantong in east China’s Jiangsu province on Friday, Jan. 24, 2025. (Chinatopix via AP)

Chinese authorities have estimated that a record 9 billion domestic trips will be made during this year’s travel rush. These journeys are expected to boost consumption of gifts, food, entertainment and transport tickets, among others.

Against China’s lacklustre economic backdrop, the spending boom this year compared with previous years will be seen as a barometer for the health of the economy as well as an indicator of consumer confidence.

Chunyun is typically seen as a powerful driver of China’s economy, which has suffered on multiple fronts including sluggish consumer spending and a prolonged property market debt crisis.

This also comes as more Chinese consumers have shifted from buying tangible items to looking for experiences and leisure, which has spurred travel spending.

URBANISATION DRIVE

The evolution of the travel rush itself provides a peek into bigger trends in China as well.

For example, up to a decade ago, rail used to be the main transport mode.

It was not until 2023 when the Ministry of Transport started including self-driven road trips in its official tallies of trips during Chunyun, reflecting the rise in car ownership in China.

A record 31.5 million vehicles were sold in China last year, a 4.5 per cent increase year-on-year. The government also rolled out subsidies to encourage people to trade in their old vehicles.

Authorities now expect 7.2 billion road trips to be made during the travel rush – almost 80 per cent of the 9.2 billion trips projected to be made across the country.

It also marks the first Chunyun since the Spring Festival was inscribed on the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage list late last year.

The scale of Chunyun also reflects another big trend: China’s urbanisation drive.

The massive movement of people back to the rural hometowns for the holidays is a result of the large-scale migration of people to metropolitan areas like Shanghai for studies, work or business opportunities.

“It’s been a year-and-a-half. Going back and seeing my family is so joyful, especially because Spring Festival is a traditional Chinese holiday,” a Shanghai resident told CNA.

“I’m looking forward to having reunion dinner, chatting, playing games, or even mahjong together,” another commuter said.

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China’s DeepSeek AI shakes industry and dents America’s swagger

January 28, 2025 - by USA Facts News - Leave a Comment

China’s DeepSeek AI shakes industry and dents America’s swagger

North America Technology Correspondent, San Francisco

Reuters Deepseek and ChatGPT app icons are seen in this illustration — DeepSeek’s developers say the chatbot was built at a fraction of the cost of rivals such as ChatGPT

The speed at which the new Chinese AI app DeepSeek has shaken the technology industry, the markets and the bullish sense of American superiority in the field of artificial intelligence (AI) has been nothing short of stunning.

Venture capitalist Marc Andreessen may have said it best. “DeepSeek-R1 is AI’s Sputnik moment,” he posted to X on Sunday, referring to the satellite which kicked off the space race.

DeepSeek was the most downloaded free app on Apple’s US App Store over the weekend. By Monday, the new AI chatbot had triggered a massive sell-off of major tech stocks which were in freefall as fears mounted over America’s leadership in the sector.

Shares of AI chip designer and recent Wall Street darling Nvidia, for example, had plunged by 17% by the time US markets closed on Monday. Or to put it in even starker terms, it lost nearly $600bn in market value which, according to Bloomberg, is the biggest drop in the history of the US stock market.

This extraordinary, historic spooking can largely be attributed to something as simple as cost. And a claim by DeepSeek’s developers which prompted serious questions in Silicon Valley.

While ChatGPT-maker OpenAI has been haemorrhaging money – spending $5bn last year alone – DeepSeek’s developers say it built this latest model for a mere $5.6m.

That is a tiny fraction of the cost that AI giants like OpenAI, Google, and Anthropic have relied on to develop their own models.

EXPLAINED: What is DeepSeek and why did it cause stocks to drop?
HANDS ON: Is DeepSeek as good as it seems?

As this dramatic moment for the sector played out, there was a palpable silence in many corners of Silicon Valley when I contacted those who are usually happy to talk. Many observers, investors, and analysts appeared stunned.

Some wondered if this marked a buying opportunity. Others questioned the information DeepSeek was providing.

“I still think the truth is below the surface when it comes to actually what’s going on,” veteran analyst Gene Munster told me on Monday. He questioned the financials DeepSeek is citing, and wondered if the startup was being subsidised or whether its numbers were correct.

The chatbot is “surprisingly good, which just makes it hard to believe”, he said.

Regardless, DeepSeek’s sudden arrival is a “flex” by China and a “black eye for US tech,” to use his own words.

It was just last week, after all, that OpenAI’s Sam Altman and Oracle’s Larry Ellison joined President Donald Trump for a news conference that really could have been a press release.

The event represented peak American bullishness on AI.

EPA US President Donald Trump (L) gives remarks on artificial intelligence (AI) Infrastructure as Larry Ellison (2-L), Chief technology officer of Oracle, Masayoshi Son (2-R), CEO of SoftBank, Sam Altman (R), CEO of OpenAI look on in the Roosevelt Room of the White House — President Trump held an event with AI industry leaders just days ago

They announced Stargate, a joint venture that promises up to $500bn in private investment for AI infrastructure: data centers in Texas and beyond, along with a promised 100,000 new jobs.

The US seemed to think its abundant data centers and control over the highest-end chips gave it a commanding lead in AI, despite China’s dominance in rare-earth metals and engineering talent.

Some have even seen it as a foregone conclusion that America would dominate the AI race, despite some high-profile warnings from top executives who said the country’s advantages should not be taken for granted.

The US may still go on to command the sector, but there is a sense that DeepSeek has shaken some of that swagger.

Trump’s words after the Chinese app’s sudden emergence in recent days were probably cold comfort to the likes of Altman and Ellison. He called this moment a “wake-up call” for the American tech industry, and said finding a way to do cheaper AI is ultimately a “good thing”.

It is also worth noting that it was not just tech stocks that took a beating on Monday. Energy stocks did too. DeepSeek’s arrival on the scene has upended many assumptions we have long held about what it takes to develop AI.

Maybe that nuclear renaissance – including firing up America’s Three Mile Island energy plant once again – won’t be needed. Maybe it does not take so much capital, compute, and power after all.

For now, the future of semiconductor giants like Nvidia remains unclear.

Watch: DeepSeek AI bot responds to BBC question about China

DeepSeek says its model was developed with existing technology along with open source software that can be used and shared by anybody for free.

But WIRED reports that for years, DeepSeek founder Liang Wenfung’s hedge fund High-Flyer has been stockpiling the chips that form the backbone of AI – known as GPUs, or graphics processing units.

The company has said its models deployed H800 chips made by Nvidia. US policy restricting sales of higher-powered chips to China might get a second-look under the new Trump administration.

OpenAI’s Sam Altman was mostly quiet on X Monday. But very late in the day, he wrote that DeepSeek was “impressive… particularly around what they’re able to deliver for the price”.

“We will obviously deliver much better models and also it’s legit invigorating to have a new competitor!” he wrote.

It was Sputnik that truly ushered in the space age. There, too, the US was caught off guard. How its tech sector responds to this apparent surprise from a Chinese company will be interesting – and it may have added serious fuel to the AI race.