Man killed after car falls on him while changing tire

By Malcolm Shields

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    RIVIERA BEACH, Florida (WPBF) — The Riviera Beach Police Department is investigating a death.

The police department said on Saturday just after 10:30 p.m. officers responded to the 300 block of West 27th Street.

When officers arrived, they were informed by a couple who lives in the home that they found the victim, who lived in a separate unit behind the house, underneath the car and called 911.

The victim was identified as a 27-year-old man. The police department will not release the name of the victim until his family is notified of his death.

The couple said they last saw the victim between 4 to 5 p.m. working on his car in the driveway.

The couple said around 10 p.m., someone who lived in the home went outside and found the victim, motionless, underneath the car and screamed for help.

The police department said firefighters lifted the 2015 Kia Optima off the man and he was pronounced dead.

Officers confirmed the victim was working underneath the passenger’s side of the front tire of the car, which was elevated by a car jack on a sloped driveway, when it fell on top of the victim.

The Palm Beach County Medical Examiner’s Office responded to the scene and will determine the cause of death.

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.

Electric wheelchair goes up in flames after lithium battery explodes

By Steven Yablonski

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    HOLLYWOOD, Florida (WFOR) — Fire officials in Hollywood are praising the quick thinking of a resident who likely saved her home after an electric wheelchair she purchased went up in flames.

According to a Facebook post from Hollywood Fire Rescue and Beach Safety, a woman said she started to hear a strange clicking sound coming from the battery pack of the used electric wheelchair, which she had bought from a thrift store.

Fire officials said that instead of ignoring the sound, she immediately moved the electric wheelchair outdoors where it exploded.

That move, officials said, likely saved her family and home from catastrophe. She then called for help, “and that decision prevented a dangerous lithium battery fire.”

According to Hollywood fire officials, the woman had been charging the chair with a non-manufacturer charger, which can overload or overheat a battery.

“It’s a reminder that when it comes to lithium batteries, small warning signs matter,” Hollywood Fire Rescue and Beach Safety said in the Facebook post.

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Mother opens lounge to honor son killed outside family restaurant

By Yazmin Rodriguez

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    PITTSBURGH (WTAE) — Preeti Tuli has opened Bubs’ Lounge next to her restaurant, Preeti’s Pitt, on Penn Avenue to honor her son, who was shot and killed outside the family business in February 2021.

“Being that this is my business, I took that to heart because I lost him outside of our family business. He was here since I opened,” Tuli said.

The lounge in Pittsburgh’s Strip District neighborhood is named in memory of Ahmir Tuli, whose nickname was “Bubs.”

“He deserves to be remembered,” Tuli said. “I know my son is up there watching, and he’s definitely proud of me.”

“I feel like he’s like my angel on Penn Avenue.”

The opening of Bubs’ Lounge coincides with the 2026 NFL draft, which Tuli said was part of her plan.

“I’ve got to be able to get this open for the draft. I want to give people a place to go, something different,” she said. “I’ve poured my whole heart into here, and I’m very, very excited to share it with everybody.”

Tuli also said she was selected as one of the vendors for the NFL draft in Pittsburgh.

“I kept pushing and pushing because I know the draft is here, and I was selected as one of the vendors for the draft,” she said.

She expressed gratitude to her support system and the city of Pittsburgh for their love and support.

“I just wanted to thank the city of Pittsburgh for loving my son as much as they do,” Tuli said.

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.

University of New Hampshire to use AI-generated recordings to announce names at graduation again

By Kendra Broddus

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    DURHAM, New Hampshire (WMUR) — For the second year in a row, University of New Hampshire seniors will cross the stage in May with an artificial intelligence-generated recording announcing their names at graduation.

The university says the technology is being used to ensure names are pronounced correctly.

“This process aims to take the potential for human error out of this momentous occasion for our students,” a UNH spokesperson told News 9.

The university will again use Tassel, an AI software company that specializes in graduation ceremonies. According to its website, Tassel’s slogan is “Perfect Pronunciations For Every Graduate.”

However, some students say they are not pleased with the decision, especially on one of the biggest days of their undergraduate careers.

“I think that using AI to read our names is really impersonal,” said Madison Wilson, a first-generation college student at UNH. “It also doesn’t match the university’s commitment to sustainability. The university cares a lot about their sustainability initiatives, and generative AI uses a disproportionate amount of water and electricity.”

UNH English professor Cristy Beemer said having a person read the graduates’ name can lead to pronunciation errors. While Beemer said she is not in favor of AI, she believes it works in this case.

“When it comes to something like this, ensuring that students can record their names ahead of time and check the pronunciation, even down to, finding out whether the emphasis is on the right syllable or not, and they get to hear it beforehand and approve,” she said. “They’re still going to get that personal attention. They’re still going to get a congratulations and a handshake and pictures. And so I don’t think it’s really going to take anything away. I think it could only improve the situation.”

When UNH senior Alyssa Cataldo walks the stage in May, she said AI will not be announcing her name and she is choosing to opt out.

“Professors and syllabuses they say that, you know, if you use AI, you’re going to get sent to the dean. You’ll get zeros. You could even fail the class and have that bring down your GPA,” Cataldo said. “And then they turn around and use AI on one of the most important days of our lives.”

Cataldo also expressed frustration over how AI is impacting the job market for recent graduates.

“Right now, we’re all graduating in 2026. It’s like a really scary time to be graduating with just AI flooding, just the job market and everywhere,” she said.

Other students said they understanding the university’s goal of correct pronunciation but worry AI can still make mistakes.

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‘From Kentucky’: The mint behind the Kentucky Derby’s signature drink

By Joyce Ogirri

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    NEW HOPE, Kentucky (WLKY) — Before the first mint julep is poured at Churchill Downs, the key ingredient begins its journey on a quiet farm in Nelson County.

Rows of fresh mint stretch across the Nelson family farm in New Hope, the starting point for one of the Kentucky Derby’s most recognizable traditions.

“For Derby, we’re pretty much cutting all day,” said farmer Nick Nelson of Nelson Family Agriculture.

Nelson supplies the mint used in the iconic mint juleps served each year at Churchill Downs. As Derby season approaches, his workload ramps up quickly.

“During Derby season, I usually start around 4:30 in the morning to make deliveries,” Nelson said. “A typical day, as long as the weather cooperates, we’re usually wrapping up around 7 in the evening.”

In the two weeks leading up to the race, production intensifies.

“We’ll cut between 300 and 500 dozen bunches a day,” Nelson said.

That surge in demand reflects the thousands of mint juleps prepared for racegoers each year, a drink synonymous with Derby Day.

Derby season accounts for about a quarter of Nelson’s business. While he says orders are slightly down compared to last year, he expects that to change as race day gets closer.

“I know we’ll get more orders. Compared to last year, it’s down right now, but it’s early. That can change,” he said.

Despite the long hours and pressure, Nelson says the work is rewarding.

“This is truly coming from Kentucky. We enjoy everything about it. It’s stressful being the one they count on,” he said.

It’s also a family effort. Nelson says involving his children in the work is one of the most meaningful parts of the job.

“We’ve got four kids, and we love the work ethic they’re learning through this,” he said.

Nelson says he’ll make his first delivery to Churchill Downs on Tuesday, bringing 100 cases.

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.

Polar Plunge benefiting Special Olympics NY brought hundreds to Plattsburgh City Beach

By Charlotte Hancox

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    PLATTSBURGH, New York (WPTZ) — Hundreds of people took the polar plunge in Plattsburgh on Saturday to support Special Olympics New York.

“It’s [for] the cause. “It really is good to see other people from our community,” said Tommy Fredette, a polar plunger.

Some participants said that while the water may only last a few seconds, the impact of events like this lasts all year long.

The money raised helps fund free programs year-round to support the Special Olympics. Including sports training, competitions, and health screenings.

“We say you’re freezing for a reason. The point of the Polar Plunge is to fundraise for our special athletes. Getting out and jumping in the water. You’re doing it for a reason,” said Chris Hughes, the director of development for Special Olympics New York.

This year, more than 200 people took part, raising around $20,000. And for many, the experience is just as meaningful as the mission.

“It was very wonderful. I loved it. I’d do anything for anybody that’s out there that has any type of needs. In this world, this is what we’re for,” said Tammy Steady, a polar plunger.

While athletes who participated said that support translates into more opportunities.

“[It’s] to help us athletes do more sports and to tell other people to go out and sponsor,” said Stuart Darrah, a Special Olympics athlete.

With a mix of courage, community, and cold water, organizers said the Polar Plunge continues to make a difference.

Even though the plunge is over, you can still donate to support local athletes through Special Olympics New York.

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.

Suspect shot FedEx driver 7 times after road rage incident, arrest report says

By Samantha Roesler

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    RIVIERA BEACH, Florida (WPTV) — A man who allegedly shot a FedEx driver seven times claimed self-defense after following the victim from Port St. Lucie to Riviera Beach in a highway road rage incident, according to police documents.

Tyler Vidro, 24, of Boynton Beach was arrested April 17 following the killing of Nathaniel Padgett, 34, a FedEx employee who was gunned down at the FedEx facility on Blue Heron Boulevard.

According to the arrest affidavit, the incident on April 16 began as a confrontation on Florida’s Turnpike South in Port St. Lucie. Padgett was driving his FedEx delivery truck with his girlfriend when Vidro allegedly pulled alongside their truck, lowered his window and made gestures attempting to provoke a confrontation. Padgett ignored the behavior and continued driving.

Vidro followed Padgett’s truck to the Riviera Beach FedEx facility where they arrived shortly after 9 p.m. The footage captured Vidro exiting his vehicle and waiting near the loading bay doors for Padgett to come from the building.

When Padgett came out and attempted to reach his personal truck, Vidro approached him, saying, “You hit my car,” according to audio captured on surveillance.

Police say Padgett tried to disengage by driving away, but Vidro pursued him in his vehicle. Padgett drove to the other side of the facility, exited his vehicle and picked up a concrete block from the ground. Surveillance footage shows Padgett approaching Vidro’s vehicle with the concrete block, stating he didn’t hit Vidro’s car. Multiple gunshots were then fired, with the flashes visible on camera.

The concrete block fell from Padgett’s hands as he was struck. Police noted the block was held at waist level and was never thrown or raised in a threatening manner before shots were fired.

Padgett was shot seven times— three gunshot wounds to the chest, two to the lower abdomen, one to his arm and one to his leg.

After the shooting, Vidro fled the scene at high speed. About 20 minutes later, he called West Palm Beach Police from a Sunoco gas station, claiming he felt threatened and had to use his firearm.

During the call, Vidro spontaneously said, “I didn’t think to call you guys, but the lawyer told me to.”

Padgett died at St. Mary’s Medical Center shortly before 11:30 p.m., and police say the ShotSpotter system detected nine gunshots at the scene, and nine 9mm shell casings were recovered.

Vidro is being held without bond at the Palm Beach County Jail. He is scheduled to make his next court appearance May 17.

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27-year-old man dies after car falls on him while working underneath vehicle

By Scott Sutton

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    RIVIERA BEACH, Florida (WPTV) — A 27-year-old man died Saturday night after a sedan he was working on fell on top of him, according to police.

The incident occurred at a home in the 300 block of W 27 Street.

Police said a couple who live at the property found the victim, who lived in a separate unit behind the house, underneath the car and called 911.

According to investigators, the victim was last seen by the couple between 4 and 5 p.m. working on his car in the driveway.

Then, at about 10 p.m., police said one of the residents at the home went outside and found the man motionless underneath the car and screamed for help.

Firefighters lifted the 2015 Kia Optima off the man, and he was pronounced dead.

“Officers confirmed the victim was working underneath the passenger’s side front tire of the car, which was jacked up on the sloped driveway, when it fell on top of him,” according to a statement from Riviera Beach police spokesman Mike Jachles.

Detectives responded to the scene to conduct a death investigation.

Police said the Palm Beach County Medical Examiner’s Office will determine the cause of death.

The man’s name was being withheld pending the notification of his next-of-kin.

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.

Family opens basement to strangers seeking shelter during tornado

By Kaylee Staral , Photojournalist Claire Karr

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    MUSKEGO, Wisconsin (WTMJ) — What started as a frightening race to find shelter during severe storms Friday night became an unexpected moment of connection inside a Muskego home.

Doorbell camera video from the Fellin family shows heavy rain pouring down before a group of five people runs up to the front door and rushes inside.

“Five strangers just ran into our basement—‘hi guys,’” Sam Fellin joked.

The Fellins, who live near Highway 36, said they were already sheltering in their basement as tornado sirens sounded and conditions quickly worsened.

“We were just looking outside through the windows, and then a car came screaming into the driveway,” Thomas Fellin said.

Inside that car were Evan Kranich and his friends, who were on their way to play volleyball when they said they believed they saw a tornado forming nearby.

“Looked out the window to our left, and I’m pretty sure we saw one of the tornadoes — and then our phones started going off,” Kranich said. “I told them we should get off and go find shelter.”

With little time to think, the Fellins opened their door and brought the group downstairs.

What began as a tense situation soon shifted.

“We just settled down and played some cards to calm the tension,” the Fellins said.

The National Weather Service confirmed seven tornadoes touched down across Southeast Wisconsin, including at least two near the Fellins’ home.

“Two tornadoes at the same time right there—they would’ve been right in between them,” the Fellins said.

That close call is why the family said they didn’t hesitate to help.

“Mom mode kicks in immediately. I hope someone would do this if my kid came knocking on their door,” Sam Fellin said.

For Kranich and his friends, the experience was unforgettable.

“Can’t thank them enough—probably one of the scariest things I’ve ever seen, looking out the window at a tornado,” he said.

The group stayed in the basement until it was safe to leave, grateful for a place to shelter during the storm.

“We can make it an annual tradition — stop by once a year and play cards,” Sam joked.

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.

Pilot in deadly plane crash in Pasco County identified: PSO

By Anthony Romano, Rebecca Petit, Barrett Tryon

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    WESLEY CHAPEL, Florida (WFTS) — A 60-year-old pilot is dead after a plane crashed in a residential neighborhood in Pasco County on Sunday morning, according to the Pasco Sheriff’s Office (PSO).

PSO identified Michael Bailey as the lone death in the plane crash, per a spokesperson on April 20.

The crash occurred on April 19 in a subdivision between homes on Aldus and Trinity drives in Wesley Chapel. The massive fireball was captured on security camera footage across the neighborhood.

It happened in Brandon Smith’s backyard. Smith, who was asleep at the time, was jolted awake by the impact.

“I felt a really loud thud, and it shook the house,” Smith said. “The next thing I know, I hear my mom yelling, there’s a fire, and to get out.”

He described bright orange flames shooting into the sky, with intense heat he could feel inside his house from behind his window.

The pilot was the only person on the aircraft and was killed, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

“It feels like a movie scene,” Smith said while looking at the destruction in his backyard. “I’m still processing it.”

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said the craft was a Cessna 401B airplane that crashed under unknown circumstances. The FAA and NTSB were expected to be on scene by Monday.

For others in the neighborhood, it was a normal Sunday morning.

“I was out having my morning coffee. My kids were in the backyard jumping on the trampoline, and I happened to notice a plane coming over. My kids saw it too, and I thought, wow, it’s really low,” said Christina Galbiati.

Galbiati’s doorbell camera captured the moment the aircraft went down.

“It’s bad. It’s pretty much ash. I think when it landed there was fire because I smelled the fuel immediately,” Galbiati said.

The plane departed from nearby Tampa North Aero Park, with the crash occurring around 8:35 a.m., the FAA confirmed.

The Grand Oaks subdivision sits within the flight path of that airport. This isn’t the first time tragedy has struck there. In May 2020, there was a similar plane crash that killed one person in the same Wesley Chapel neighborhood.

“Very uneasy. Definitely more serious conversations need to be had with my husband about the possibility and wanting to stay here,” said Kristen W.

Once on site, an investigator will begin documenting the scene and examining the aircraft. The aircraft will then be recovered to a secure facility for further evaluation, the NTSB said.

“It was just really a surreal moment. You obviously never expect something like this to happen to you at your house,” Smith said.

Witnesses to the accident, as well as those with surveillance video or other information relevant to the investigation, are asked to contact the NTSB at witness@ntsb.gov.

“It makes you feel really bad for the pilot’s family, but at the same time very grateful it wasn’t us,” said Kristen.

The NTSB will lead the investigation, with assistance from the FAA.

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.