Magnus Carlsen was disqualified from the 2024 World Rapid and Blitz Championship in New York for violating the dress code by wearing jeans. Despite being fined and asked to change, Carlsen refused, leading to his disqualification by FIDE.
Cryptocurrency billionaire Vitalik Buterin has donated $290,000 to Moo Deng, a five-month-old pygmy hippo at the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand. The baby hippo, an internet sensation and meme star, will benefit from the donation to improve her care and habitat.
Chisako Kakehi, known as Japan's "Black Widow," died at 78 in custody after being sentenced to death for murdering three elderly lovers with cyanide. Her calculated crimes shocked Japan and exposed gaps in investigating suspicious deaths.
Thirteen corrections officers were fired after bodycam footage revealed them assaulting handcuffed inmate Robert Brooks, who died the next day. The video has sparked outrage, prompting investigations into systemic issues in New York's prison system.
Former NASA astronaut Dr. Leroy Chiao revealed a near collision with two mysterious metallic orbs while flying his private plane over Texas. The unidentified objects, described as spherical and fast-moving, came dangerously close, raising questions about their origin.
Hudson Meek, the 16-year-old actor known for his role in Baby Driver, tragically passed away on December 21 after falling from a moving vehicle in Alabama.
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore's festive photos aboard the ISS sparked conspiracy theories about their extended mission. NASA debunked claims, confirming the holiday decorations arrived via a SpaceX resupply in November.
Luigi Mangione, accused of murdering UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, pleaded not guilty in a Manhattan court. His lawyer criticized Mayor Eric Adams and authorities for turning the case into a political spectacle, violating Mangione's right to a fair trial.
NYPD Lieutenant Quathisha Epps has accused Chief Jeffrey Maddrey of sexual exploitation, alleging he used his power to coerce her into unwanted acts in exchange for overtime.
Jeffrey Maddrey, NYPD's Chief of Department, resigned following allegations of trading sexual favors for overtime benefits. Mayor Eric Adams called the claims "alarming," as the NYPD launched an internal investigation.
The mysterious Dinga Dinga virus, causing uncontrollable shaking resembling dance-like movements, has infected nearly 300 people, sparking global concern.
The NYPD made a dramatic show of force as they escorted murder suspect Luigi Mangione through New York City, with armed guards and Mayor Eric Adams in attendance.
Neighbors described Alexander Paffendorf, the alleged co-conspirator in the Wisconsin school shooting, as reclusive and "creepy," with reports revealing his involvement in planning a coordinated attack.