Bus involved in deadly Ohio crash had emergency exit-related violations: Inspection report

December 2, 2023 by WDNY Radio

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) — The coach bus involved in the deadly crash on I-70 in Ohio had multiple violations before the incident, according to an examination report from state inspectors obtained by ABC News on Friday.

The document, released by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio in response to a public records request over the November crash, says that the Pioneer Trails bus had “inadequate” marking issues on three emergency exit window labels, including incorrect operating instructions.

The report also says that three windows on the passenger side of the bus and two windows on the driver side “contain emergency exit marking labels but are not functioning emergency exits,” while a fire extinguisher on the bus had an “invalid tag date of 2019.”

Roadside emergency reflective triangles were also reportedly missing from the bus.

Pioneer Trails did not respond to requests for comment from ABC News.

The collision occurred on Nov. 14 in Licking County, east of Columbus.

The Ohio State Highway Patrol says that the bus, which had been transporting students from Tuscarawas Valley High School to a conference in Columbus, was “slowing for traffic” alongside other vehicles when it and a car were hit from behind by a Mid State Systems truck. This is believed to have caused the bus to hit another car and another truck.

A massive fire broke out and six people died, including three students.

Although the inspection of the bus that resulted in these violations being found occurred after the collision, state officials believe the violations in question were not caused by the incident, while other issues like a missing emergency exit on the rear roof of the bus are believed to be the result of the crash itself.

It is not yet clear whether fines will be issued in connection with the alleged violations, according to the commission.

Another report released Friday by the commission said that the Mid State Systems truck, which was traveling from Topton, Pennsylvania to East Liberty, Ohio, was transporting lead-acid batteries and that “acid from batteries was released as a result of the crash.”

“The truck and trailer are a total loss,” the report added. “The axle 2 and axle 3 brake chambers on the truck were melted away. All remaining brakes were unable to be measured.”

Trucks owned by Mid State Systems were cited prior to the collision by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio for issues such as defective brakes, according to documents obtained earlier this week by ABC News.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families [affected] by this tragic accident,” Lee Zazworsky of Mid State Systems told ABC News by email on Thursday. “Since this matter is still under investigation, we will reserve further comment at this time.”

The National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration are conducting investigations into the crash.

Bruce Springsteen pays tribute to late Pogues frontman Shane MacGowan

December 1, 2023 by WDNY Radio

Bruce Springsteen has paid tribute to the late Pogues frontman Shane MacGowan, who passed away November 30 at the age of 65.

“Over here on E Street, we are heartbroken over the death of Shane MacGowan,” reads Springsteen’s Instagram post. “Shane was one of my all-time favorite writers. The passion and deep intensity of his music and lyrics is unmatched by all but the very best in the rock and roll canon.”

Springsteen then recalled visiting Shane and his wife, Victoria, when he was playing shows in Dublin last May.

“He was very ill, but still beautifully present in his heart and spirit,” Springsteen writes. “His music is timeless and eternal. I don’t know about the rest of us, but they’ll be singing Shane’s songs 100 years from now.”

Patrick Stewart shares story of meeting Paul McCartney as The Beatles land new #1

December 1, 2023 by WDNY Radio

The Beatles are back at #1: The band’s new single, “Now and Then,” tops the Billboard Adult Alternative Airplay chart for the very first time.

The Adult Alternative Airplay chart launched in 1996, and The Beatles have landed on it one other time — when 1996’s “Free as a Bird” peaked at #11. They now hold the record for the longest time between their first appearance on the AAA chart and their first #1.

In other Beatles news … Sir Patrick Stewart recounted a sweet story of meeting Paul McCartney during an appearance on Live with Kelly & Mark.

He was in Bristol working in an acting company with McCartney’s then-girlfriend Jane Asher and during lunch one day they were playing a game where they shared what they’d buy if they had 1 million pounds; Stewart chose an Aston Martin. Two weeks later, McCartney showed up at Stewart’s dressing room.

“The door opened and there was Paul McCartney and he said, ‘Jane tells me that you like Aston Martins. Here, drive this,’” Stewart recalled, noting he was in his underwear at the time. “He threw me a bunch of keys.” Stewart said they went out on a joyride in the middle of the night and drove about 18 miles together to Bath, England.

“All I could think was if I crash this car it’s the only thing I’ll be remembered for,” Stewart said. “This is the man who killed Paul McCartney.”

Stewart also recalled bumping into McCartney, who was with Ringo Starr, in a restaurant years later. McCartney introduced Stewart to Ringo, noting they were all “Sirs.”

Stewart said McCartney put his arms around both him and Ringo, declaring, “We are Knights of the Round Table.”

The Who won’t be pulling an ABBA, according to Pete Townshend

December 1, 2023 by WDNY Radio

These days, thanks to technology like holograms, bands don’t necessarily have to disappear when they decide to stop touring or making music. But that’s not something The Who’s Pete Townshend is interested in.

Townshend and Roger Daltrey are the only two surviving members of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame band and they still tour together. When they eventually decide to put an end to touring, Townshend says fans shouldn’t expect to see a Who avatar show like Voyage, the show made famous by ABBA.

“Apparently Mick [Jagger] has said, ‘Yeah, The Rolling Stones will definitely do an ABBA,’” he tells the Financial Times, referring to recent comments Jagger made to WSJ magazine. Townshend then made a face and ruled it out for The Who, noting, “Oh f***, no, no, no.”

While The Who don’t currently have dates on the books, they did play several shows in the U.K. last summer. Their last gig was August 28 in Sandringham, England.

Judge rules Kelly Clarkson’s ex-husband owes her $2.6 million for “unlawfully” negotiating deals for her

December 1, 2023 by WDNY Radio

Kelly Clarkson and Brandon Blackstock in early 2020; David Crotty/Patrick McMullan via Getty Images

Kelly Clarkson has scored a legal victory over her ex-husband, Brandon Blackstock, who is also her ex-manager.

According to court documents obtained by ABC News, Brandon unlawfully procured business deals for Kelly while serving as her manager, including deals for Kelly to, among other things, coach on The Voice, host the Billboard Music Awards, and promote Wayfair and Norwegian Cruise Line.

These deals were judged to be unlawful because, according to the California labor commission, they should have been handled by Kelly’s agent, not her manager. Therefore, the commissions that Brandon received from Kelly for the deals were also obtained unlawfully and must be paid back — to the tune of more than $2.6 million.

Of that amount, nearly $2 million represents the commission from The Voice deal.

The ruling notes, “A manager, like any person without a talent agency license, cannot procure or attempt to procure employment for artists.”

Brandon’s legal team is appealing the ruling.

Kelly and Brandon split in 2020 after nearly seven years of marriage. They share two children: daughter River Rose and son Remington Alexander.

Three men experiencing homelessness fatally shot by potential serial killer in Los Angeles: Police

December 1, 2023 by WDNY Radio

(LOS ANGELES) — Police in Los Angeles said they’re searching for a potential serial killer who targeted three men who were all experiencing homelessness.

All three victims were sleeping alone on a sidewalk or an alley when they were killed this week, the LAPD warned at a news conference on Friday.

The first victim, 37 years old, was killed at about 3 a.m. Sunday. The second victim, 62 years old, was attacked at about 4:55 a.m. Monday, and the third, a 52-year-old man, was killed around 2:30 a.m. Wednesday, police said.

The lone suspect was seen in a car at all three locations, police said. The suspect approached each victim on foot, shot and killed them, and then fled in the car, police said.

Police are asking the public to review these images to help identify the suspect.

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is urging LA residents to try to contact any of their relatives experiencing homelessness.

“We need you to contact them today — we need you to tell them about this danger,” Bass said at the news conference.

“Do not sleep alone tonight,” Bass said. “Seek shelter. Seek services. Stay together.”

“Living on the streets we already know is dangerous,” the mayor added.

“This is a killer who is preying on the unhoused,” Bass said. “We are calling Angelinos to come together. The city and the region is mobilizing to find this individual. … We will find you, we will catch you and you will be held accountable.”

Music notes: Ariana Grande, Olivia Rodrigo and more

December 1, 2023 by WDNY Radio

Bowen Yang has nothing but nice words to say about Ariana Grande. The Saturday Night Live cast member co-stars alongside Ari in the upcoming Wicked film, and he told People he adores everything about her. “She’s an incredibly empathetic, beautiful, feeling person, and that comes through in her music very clearly.” He also explained what about her would make her an ideal partner. “I just think the fact that she’s hilarious, full-out funny. I think that she’s the perfect person for anybody to be around,” Bowen said.

Noah Kahan is teasing fellow musician and friend Olivia Rodrigo ahead of his Saturday Night Live debut performance on December 2. Olivia is making her second appearance on the sketch comedy show the following Saturday. “@oliviarodrigo I promise not to destroy the green room before you get here,” Noah wrote on SNL’s Instagram Story during his takeover of the account on Friday.

Taylor Swift shared a carousel of photos from the London premiere of Beyoncé‘s concert movie, Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé. Taylor posed with Beyoncé on the red carpet, and even shared a snap with her BFF Blake Lively. “Got invited to London by The Queen,” Taylor wrote on Instagram. “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé is in theaters now!!”

Ryan Cabrera is a dad! The “On the Way Down” singer welcomed his first child with wife and WWE star Alexa Bliss on November 27. The new parents announced the news on Instagram Thursday. “Weighing in at 6 pounds, 9 ounces,” Ryan said in a video, “She is 21 inches of fury.”

Greedy for more from Tate McRae? You’re in luck. She’s revealed the track list for her upcoming album, Think Later. The 14-song album arrives Friday, December 8, and includes hits like “greedy” and “exes.”

Music notes: *NSYNC, Taylor Swift and more

December 1, 2023 by WDNY Radio

*NSYNC are spreading holiday cheer with a new animated music video for their festive track “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays.” The video features scenes of a snowy winter in a city as animated versions of the band celebrate Christmas together.

Taylor Swift shared a carousel of photos from the London premiere of Beyoncé‘s concert movie, Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé. Taylor posed with Beyoncé on the red carpet, and even shared a snap with her BFF Blake Lively from inside the venue. “Got invited to London by The Queen,” Taylor wrote on Instagram. “Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé is in theaters now!!”

The cast of Glee has reunited to sing on a new track honoring Naya Rivera, who died in 2020 at the age of 33. The previously unreleased song, “Prayer for the Broken,” posthumously features Naya’s voice, alongside her Glee castmates Jenna Ushkowitz, Kevin McHale, Amber Riley, Heather Morris, Vanessa Lengies and Ashley Fink. “It’s just a really special song now that we’ll have, and that more importantly the fans will have, to be able to hear her voice again,” Jenna told E News.

Man charged with stabbing Derek Chauvin 22 times in prison: DOJ

December 1, 2023 by WDNY Radio

(TUCSON, Ariz.) — An inmate at FCI Tucson has been charged with allegedly stabbing Derek Chauvin, the former Minneapolis police officer convicted of killing George Floyd, according to the Justice Department.

Chauvin was allegedly stabbed 22 times by 52-year-old John Turscak on Nov. 24.

Turscak was charged with attempted murder after he allegedly used a knife he crafted to stab him.

Chauvin was not named in the complaint and only appears as “DC,” but a law enforcement source confirmed he was the one who was attacked.

Turscak allegedly approached Chauvin while he was in the law library and stabbed him. He allegedly told officers that if they hadn’t responded so quickly he would’ve killed him.

However, after he waived his Miranda rights, he said something different, officials said.

“At that time, TURSCAK denied wanting to kill D.C. However, TURSCAK stated that he had been thinking about assaulting D.C. for approximately one month because D.C. is a high-profile inmate. TURSCAK stated he saw an opportunity to assault D.C. in the law library,” the complaint says. “Turscak stated that his attack of D.C. on Black Friday was symbolic with the Black Lives Matter movement and the Mexican Mafia criminal organization. D.C. received emergency medical treatment for his injuries at a local hospital.”

Chauvin was listed in stable condition in the days after the stabbing and officials said he would recover.

Turscak pleaded guilty to racketeering and conspiring to kill a gang rival after previously working as an FBI informant against the Mexican Mafia organization, according to The Los Angeles Times. He was sentenced to 30 years in prison in 2001.

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison, who led the prosecution of Chauvin on state charges, said in a statement after the stabbing that he was “sad to hear that Derek Chauvin was the target of violence.”

MORE: Timeline: The impact of George Floyd’s death in Minneapolis and beyond
“He was duly convicted of his crimes and, like any incarcerated individual, he should be able to serve his sentence without fear of retaliation or violence,” Ellison said.

Chauvin has been serving a state and federal sentence at FCI Tucson in the death of Floyd, a Black man who died while in police custody on May 25, 2020.

Floyd’s death triggered a string of racial reckoning in the country and months of protests across the country.

ABC News’ Pierre Thomas and Alexander Mallin contributed to this report.

‘Home Alone’ star Macaulay Culkin honored during Walk of Fame ceremony

December 1, 2023 by WDNY Radio

Macaulay Culkin received a Walk of Fame star this week.

The actor, 43, who is known for his roles in Home Alone, Richie Rich, My Girl and more, was honored during a ceremony in Hollywood on Friday.

“Thank you to the Walk of Fame committee for honoring me in this way. I feel such esteem from this whole thing,” Culkin said. “There’s so many people that I love, and to feel that love back is just amazing.”

He also thanked Brenda Song, with whom he shares two sons.

“You are absolutely everything, you’re my champion,” he said as he held back tears. “You’re the only person happier for me today than I am. You’re not only the best woman I’ve ever known, you’re the best person I’ve ever known. You’ve given me just all my purpose. You’ve given me family.”

“And after the birth of our two boys, you’ve become one of my three favorite people,” he added. “You’re somewhere in there. But I love you. I love you so much.”

Culkin ended his speech by reciting his iconic line from Home Alone: “To wrap things up, in the spirit of the holiday season, I just want to say, Merry Christmas, ya filthy animals.”

Friends, family and other Hollywood stars, including his Home Alone mom Catherine O’Hara, Natasha Lyonne, Seth Green and Paris Jackson, attended the ceremony to support Culkin.

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