Author: CNN Newsource

By Rachael Perry

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    PALM BEACH COUNTY, Florida (WPBF) — Detectives are searching for whoever is responsible for setting a chicken on fire on the side of a road, where it later died.

The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office said they’re actively trying to find the person or people seen getting out of a vehicle and setting the chicken on fire. PBSO said the chicken was found dead a short distance from where it was set on fire.

According to a spokesperson for the sheriff’s office, the incident happened on Friday near the intersection of Avocado Boulevard and 60th Street near the acreage in Palm Beach County.

WPBF 25 News sat down with Capt. David Walesky, with Palm Beach County Animal Care and Control, who explained the need to find the suspect(s).

“A lot of times, this is outside of my expertise, but you always notice this with serial killers, that they start off torturing and doing harmful things to animals and children before they advance to where they do something, you know, on that higher level, I guess you would say,” Walesky said.

He said it’s clear the person who did this is unwell.

“This is not a normal thing to do to a live animal, so we need to find that person, and we need to get justice for that animal. But we also need to figure out what’s going on there to begin with, to prevent something more horrific from happening,” he said.

Walesky said they are conducting a necropsy on the chicken to verify the cause of death.

“A necropsy is basically the same thing as an autopsy with humans. So it’s performed by a licensed veterinarian. They go through, they collect tissue samples, skin samples, anything like that that would be helpful for forensics, for testing. They determine the cause of death,” Walesky said.

Get the latest news updates with the WPBF 25 News app. You can download it here.

From there, he said that it can be used in court to help support anything observed by a witness. “So it kind of corroborates what we already know and brings science into that to better improve the chances of a conviction,” he told WPBF.

As of Jan. 1, 2026, a new law is set to go into effect aimed at people committing these types of crimes. It’s called Dexter’s Law and, among other things, is designed to implement harsher penalties in aggravated animal cruelty cases.

“You have to be afraid of the penalty in order to take that risk a lot of times. Hopefully, it’ll bring more awareness to animal cruelty crimes and the consequences of that when we see people getting a more meaningful sentence when they abuse an animal,” Walesky said.

When it comes to the chicken in this most recent animal cruelty investigation, Walesky shut down any speculation of this being a “ritualistic act.”

“This one right here doesn’t make any sense from a religious standpoint. It is not normal to light a live animal on fire as a part of any religious ritual out there, and that appears to be what has happened, and that is an act of animal cruelty at its just unexplainable form. Whoever did this needs to be prosecuted. There’s not a religion in the world that thinks it’s okay to light live animals on fire,” he said.

Walesky said, unfortunately, they’ve seen an uptick in animal cruelty cases involving livestock. However, he said he can’t imagine what the motive would be to do something like this.

“There are quite a few aspects of this that don’t make any sense. A lot of times, when people are doing things kind of evil like this, they’re doing it more in private. But this is just an intersection and just getting out on a vehicle at a random location and then, you know, lighting a chicken on fire. We don’t understand why, but it’s definitely not something that should be happening in our society,” he told WPBF.

Officials are now pleading with the public for help identifying the suspect(s).

“Anybody who may know who this individual is, recognizes this vehicle, or somebody who was unusually in possession of a chicken on that day. Anything may help. This is definitely a situation that we just don’t understand, but it’s definitely animal cruelty, and we would definitely like to see somebody prosecuted for this,” Walesky said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Det. C. Kovacs, from the Animal Crimes Unit, at KovacsC@pbso.org or Crime Stoppers of Palm Beach County at 1-800-458-TIPS (8477). Tips can remain anonymous.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

By Greg Ng

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    WHITEFORD, Maryland (WBAL) — An early morning fire fueled by strong wind in Harford County displaced a 71-year-old woman.

According to the Maryland Office of the State Fire Marshal, the fire was reported around 3:19 a.m. Tuesday in the 4100 block of Prospect Road in Whiteford. Authorities said the homeowner was able to evacuate and reach a neighbor to call 911 for help.

It took about two hours for some 50 firefighters to try to gain control of the fire, but extremely high winds fueled the fast-moving fire, ultimately causing the home to nearly collapse, state investigators said.

State investigators credited functioning smoke alarms for saving the woman’s life. The homeowner’s pet cats are believed to have died in the fire.

The fire caused an estimated $500,000 in damage, state investigators said.

No injuries were reported, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Harford County Disaster Assistance is assisting the displaced family.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

By Corey Howard

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    ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico (KOAT) — A racehorse named “J’s On Fire” tested positive for methamphetamine after finishing second in a race at the American Quarter Horse Association Racing Challenge last fall, resulting in the suspension of its trainer, Michael Joiner, by the New Mexico Racing Commission.

Billy Blackburn, Joiner’s attorney, said, “The New Mexico Racing Commission suspended him immediately without a hearing.”

J’s On Fire tested positive for 0.485 nanograms of methamphetamine, which Blackburn described as “very, very, very small” and “invisible to see with the naked eye.”

Following the suspension, Blackburn filed an emergency temporary restraining order, allowing Joiner to continue working.

“We had to prove that we needed a restraining order in front of the judge yesterday. She ruled in our favor, and now he is able to go back to racing … until he has a disciplinary hearing in New Mexico,” Blackburn said.

According to Ismael Trejo, the commission is waiting on a second test sample to come back from the laboratory. After that, the commission will determine whether Joiner’s license will be suspended or not.

Blackburn cites environmental contamination as the reason why Joiner’s horse had meth in its system, saying this happens when anyone is using meth around the animal.

According to Joiner’s attorney, he has been a horse trainer since 1979 and only faced one suspension back in 1981.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

By Katrina Markel

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    HENDERSON, Iowa (KMTV) — A 20-year-old college student is possibly the youngest, currently serving mayor in the United States after winning election in Henderson, Iowa. It also appears she might be youngest female mayor in U.S. history. KMTV could only find a reference to a 21-year-old woman who took office last year.

Eva Fipps was sworn in as mayor of the Mills County town of 144 residents. She joins two other young, elected officials in the county: 19-year-old County Supervisor Jack Sayers and 21-year-old Silver City Mayor Joseph Jaworski.

The idea to run for mayor came from a neighbor, Henderson City Clerk Candace Knop, who Fipps would visit during her regular runs through town.

“…and she goes ‘you should run for mayor!'” Fipps said.

Knop confirmed she encouraged Fipps.

“Well, because we need fresh blood,” Knop said.

Fipps said it was a last minute decision, but interest in public service has deep roots. She served as a page in the Iowa House of Representatives and participated in the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State program.

“It really is geared towards the kids that want to make a difference,” Fipps said.

Her path to politics was also influenced by Sayers, now her nextdoor neighbor, who gave a presentation to her high school class about the legislative page program.

“There was people who inspired me and I kinda hoped that I’d be able to inspire others…” Sayers said.

Still in college and planning for law school, Fipps said her top priority will be revitalizing Henderson.

“I would love nothing more to just see our town flourish again,” she said.

Henderson has a history of producing successful politicians, including a Speaker of the Iowa House Bill Harbor, and U.S. Congressman Bill Scherle. Fipps is excited to add her name to the town’s political legacy.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Scripps editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

By Victoria Quevedo

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     CAPE CORAL, Florida (WFTX) — A construction truck ended up halfway submerged in a Cape Coral canal Tuesday morning.

Chris Eriksen returned home from New York to find the unexpected sight behind his house on Northeast 12th Court and Northeast 3rd Terrace, where a home is under construction.

“I did not know when you knocked on my door and told me there was something in the canal. I had no idea what you were talking about,” Eriksen said.

The truck belonged to Yaky Trucking Company and was working close to the seawall. An employee with the company explained the truck had to make multiple turns to navigate the tight space.

When the driver attempted to brake, the compressed air system failed to respond properly, causing the truck to roll into the water.

“A year ago, it was an empty lot. They started building that house probably mid summer, and so you watch it, you know, as it progresses. And you know, it’s a big house, we watch the pool go in and all, and this is a major curve ball,” Eriksen said.

Despite the unusual morning surprise, Eriksen found humor in the situation.

“I saw the truck in the water and just chuckled. I wished I had seen it go in, but I missed that. You don’t see this every day,” Eriksen said.

Three tow trucks eventually removed the construction vehicle from the canal. Eriksen documented the incident with photos and videos to share with family members.

“I got it on camera. I took pictures. I’m going to send them up north. My wife is up north, still with our grandchildren, and she’s laughing. My son is laughing,” Eriksen said.

This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Scripps editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

By Shelly Garzon

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    ASHEVILLE, North Carolina (WLOS) — As people head out to celebrate the New Year holiday, many will rely on rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft to get home safely. Local law enforcement is encouraging riders to remain cautious and aware when using those services during one of the busiest nights of the year.

“Trust your instincts most of all. If you got a bad feeling about the ride, you can end the ride at any point in time, ask to get out, and of course, in all emergency cases, call 911,” said Justin Lewis, senior police officer with the Asheville Police Department.

With crowds expected throughout the city on New Year’s Eve, APD says public safety remains a top priority. Officers will be working throughout the night and encourage the public to speak up if they see anything concerning.

“If you see something, report it. Please don’t fall for the bystander effect thinking that somebody else will call it in,” Lewis said. APD also recommends requesting rides from secure locations and limiting distractions while waiting.

“Don’t be outside distracted by your phone. It’s easy to just pass the time, do it inside your residence or wherever you’re at,” Lewis said.

Rideshare services such as Uber and Lyft include safety tools like location-sharing features, allowing riders to share trip details with friends or family. APD encourages riders to use those tools whenever possible.

“Knowing who you’re getting in with[…] If you’re going to ride with a group, make sure you’re riding with a friend. The ride share has a share information on it to where you can share with a family or friend. At least text them, let them know where you’re going, who you’re with,” Lewis said.

Drivers say safety is also a priority for those working behind the wheel. Uber and Lyft driver Chris Codding said he prepares in advance for one of the most demanding nights of the year.

“I try and make sure the car is ready, get it nice and clean, and maybe put some mats down or some bags in just so everything is there that the people need,” he said.

Codding says New Year’s Eve can become busy quickly, with back-to-back trips throughout the night.

“I’m always taking six people, five people, back-to-back parties, going to the breweries, coming home from the breweries. It’s a lot of moving around, and then there’s a spike around 2:30 a.m.,” he said.

Drivers say the increase in ride requests means staying especially alert on the roads.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

By Melissa Hipolit

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    AMELIA, Virginia (WTVR) — For decades they have comforted grieving famillies, but now it’s the Hix family that needs solace as they mourn their beloved family business in Amelia, which was destroyed by fire Tuesday.

“I never thought this day would come,” Jim Hix said.

The Hillsman-Hix Funeral Home has served the community for nearly 40 years, but the owners say they plan to rebuild and continue serving families in their time of need.

The building in Amelia caught fire while Jim Hix’s wife and son were working inside the building. When they noticed flames at the back of the structure, his son grabbed a fire extinguisher and attempted to put out the blaze, but strong winds caused the fire to spread rapidly.

“The wind just took over,” said Carol Hix.

Jim Hix rushed back from McDonald’s when he learned about the fire. While he was away, his son and a friend rescued the single body inside the funeral home that was awaiting a New Year’s Eve funeral service.

“We would have the remains out before we get out,” said Jim Hix.

“That’s right, they were out before I was,” Carol Hix said.

“That’s just something you do,” Jim Hix added.

The funeral home consists of multiple buildings. The structure that burned contained the family’s flower shop and the chapel used for funeral services. The crematorium, located across the street, was not damaged in the fire.

“You become a part of the community and you get to know so many people and your lives intermingle and touch. It’s a rewarding career,” said Jim Hix.

Firefighters from Amelia and Chesterfield responded to the scene and were able to prevent the fire from spreading to neighboring buildings despite the strong winds that fueled the blaze. No one was killed or injured in the incident.

Through tears and shock, the Hix family said their customers’ funerals will continue at different locations until they can rebuild.

“We’re just going to move along. Life is this way. We just take what we got and make lemonade out of lemons,” said Jim Hix.

Jim Hix expressed gratitude for the community support they have received.

“I just can’t get over the outreaching I’ve received so far,” said Jim Hix.

The fire department is still working to determine the cause of the fire, but it does not suspect foul play.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.

By Mike Darnay

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    PITTSBURGH (KDKA) — A Pittsburgh woman has been arrested and is facing charges after police say she zipped a puppy inside a suitcase on Christmas Day.

Police said that officers were called to the city’s North Side after receiving a report of a woman who was beating a puppy.

Officers said when they arrived in the area, a man told them they saw a woman, later identified as Jayme White, yelling at her dog and zipping it inside a suitcase she was carrying.

Police said they confronted White, who admitting to having a puppy inside the suitcase.

Investigators said that a witness told them White hit the dog several times before putting it inside the suitcase.

White was arrested and is being held in the Allegheny County Jail. She is facing several charges including animal neglect and public drunkenness.

Please note: This story was provided to CNN Wire by an affiliate and does not contain original CNN reporting. This content carries a strict local market embargo. If you share the same market as the contributor of this article, you may not use it on any platform.