(DAYTONA BEACH, Fla.) — A “cruel prank” at a high school in Florida that created a panic in the cafeteria just a day after threatening graffiti was discovered in a bathroom stall has led authorities to press charges against the “pranksters” and recommend expulsion for all involved.
The troubling incident began last Thursday at Mainland High School in Daytona Beach, Florida, when the Daytona Beach Police Department were made aware of a specific threat that had been written on one of the bathroom stalls in the school which caused them to start an investigation.
“The school and DBPD reviewed video and identified two students that had entered into the bathroom when the graffiti was discovered,” the Daytona Beach Police Department said in a statement released on social media. “These students were interviewed by law enforcement and denied any involvement … After a thorough investigation, it was determined that no threat existed, however we added additional law enforcement presence as a precaution.”
But it was on Friday when police say that two different groups of students decided to “capitalize on the threat from the day before” by collaborating with each other to incite a mass panic within the school.
Authorities allege that the two groups can be seen on surveillance cameras inside the school working together to get into specific positions at different locations inside the cafeteria in carefully timed movements, police say.
“Several female students walk towards the school administrator laughing and smiling, all the way, up until they reached the administrator, at which point one of the females tells the administrator that someone had a gun,” allege the DBPD in their statement. “At this same time, one of the male kids, already positioned near the exit to the cafeteria, waited until the female student made the statement, then looked at her and ran out of the building, causing a large crowd to follow him.”
Furthermore, police say that video of the individuals who they suspect orchestrated the entire incident indicate that neither the male nor female students “ever observed a gun or flinched as you would expect when shots had just been fired.”
“At no time in the video, does anyone stand on a table and present a gun, or fire shots,” authorities confirmed.
The Daytona Beach Police Department said that they have been working non-stop on this investigation since the incident by tracking down leads, reviewing video, identifying people who could be involved and conducting interviews.
“We have identified everyone involved and have interviewed nearly all of them, and so far, when presented with the video (which clearly shows the area and everyone’s movements), no one has been able to point out the guy on the table, a gun, or the moment the shots would have been fired,” said the DBPD. “Stories have changed from seeing the guy, or a gun, to ‘they just heard there was one.’ This entire incident appears to have been a cruel prank by several students that has now gotten out of control due to internet trolls, miss-informed people and in some cases, people that are not even in Florida, or have kids that go to school at Mainland.”
In spite of this incident ultimately being a false alarm, police have confirmed that they will increase their law enforcement presence at the school.
Authorities did not name those involved with the incident or say how many people they were charging but did say that the “pranksters” have charges pending for making a false report concerning the use of firearms in a violent manner against a person or persons, which is a second-degree felony in the state of Florida.
The Daytona Beach Police Department also confirmed that expulsion from the school will be recommended for all involved.
Police concluded their statement by reminding people not to re-share posts on social media containing unverified information and asking witnesses with information to come directly to them rather than posting it on social media.
Said the Daytona Beach Police Department: “We cannot locate every single post online and this only delays our response and investigation.”
(WASHINGTON) — Inflation data released on Tuesday revealed that prices rose slightly in August, worsening the cost woes for U.S. households as the Federal Reserve readies to decide on another interest rate hike next week.
The data calls into question whether inflation has peaked.
On a monthly basis, the consumer price index rose 0.1% in August, inching upward from the flat month-to-month movement in July, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The consumer price index, or CPI, rose 8.3% over the past year in August, a slight slowdown from 8.5% in July, according to the bureau.
The data arrives a little more than a week before Federal Reserve officials meet to determine what investors expect to be another borrowing cost increase aimed at fighting inflation.
The Fed has instituted a series of aggressive interest rate hikes in recent months as it tries to slash price increases by slowing the economy and choking off demand. But the approach risks tipping the U.S. into an economic downturn and putting millions out of work.
The rate increases appear to have slowed key sectors of the economy, sending mortgage rates higher and slowing the construction of new homes, for instance.
But other indicators suggest the U.S. economy continues to hum. U.S. hiring fell from its breakneck pace but remained robust in August, with the economy adding 315,000 jobs and the unemployment rate rising to 3.7% as more people sought work, according to data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics in early September.
Speaking at a conference held by the conservative-leaning Cato Institute, Fed Chair Jerome Powell said Thursday that the central bank must act “forthrightly, strongly” to dial back inflation, leading many economists to expect another 75-basis point interest rate hike from the central bank later this month.
The Fed is performing a “delicate balancing act,” said Scott Schuh, an economics professor at the University of West Virginia. “The Fed is raising rates but trying to avoid an increase in the unemployment rate.”
“It seems somewhat reasonable to expect the inflation rate to continue to come down for the next few months and quarters,” he added.
Prices in some areas of the economy have already fallen significantly.
The national average price for a gallon of gas stood at $3.72 on Monday, having fallen well below a peak of $5.01 in mid-June, according to AAA.
Consumer expectations for inflation have fallen significantly too, according to data released by the New York Federal Reserve on Monday.
In August, the median of consumer responses showed that they expect inflation to fall to 5.7% in one year and 2.8% in three years, a New York Federal Reserve survey showed. Those figures were down from 6.2% and 3.2%, respectively, in July.
(WASHINGTON) — The release of inflation data on Tuesday will show whether near-historic inflation in the nation continues to slow.
The data, which will reveal how prices moved in August, arrives little more than a week before Federal Reserve officials meet to determine what investors expect to be another borrowing cost increase aimed at fighting inflation.
The most recent data from the consumer price index, or CPI, showed a slowdown of price increases. The CPI rose 8.5% over the past year as of July, a marked slowdown from 9.1% in June, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
The August report is expected to show that the CPI rose 8% year-over-year in August, continuing its descent from the peak in June, according to a Bloomberg survey of economists.
The Fed has instituted a series of aggressive interest rate hikes in recent months as it tries to slash price increases by slowing the economy and choking off demand. But the approach risks tipping the U.S. into an economic downturn and putting millions out of work.
The rate increases appear to have slowed key sectors of the economy, sending mortgage rates higher and slowing the construction of new homes, for instance.
But other indicators suggest the U.S. economy continues to hum. U.S. hiring fell from its breakneck pace but remained robust in August, with the economy adding 315,000 jobs and the unemployment rate rising to 3.7% as more people sought work, according to data released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics in early September.
Speaking at a conference held by the conservative-leaning Cato Institute, Fed Chair Jerome Powell said Thursday that the central bank must act “forthrightly, strongly” to dial back inflation, leading many economists to expect another 75-basis point interest rate hike from the central bank later this month.
The Fed is performing a “delicate balancing act,” said Scott Schuh, an economics professor at the University of West Virginia. “The Fed is raising rates but trying to avoid an increase in the unemployment rate.”
“It seems somewhat reasonable to expect the inflation rate to continue to come down for the next few months and quarters,” he added.
Prices in some areas of the economy have already fallen significantly.
The national average price for a gallon of gas stood at $3.72 on Monday, having fallen well below a peak of $5.01 in mid-June, according to AAA.
Consumer expectations for inflation have fallen significantly too, according to data released by the New York Federal Reserve on Monday.
In August, the median of consumer responses showed that they expect inflation to fall to 5.7% in one year and 2.8% in three years, a New York Federal Reserve survey showed. Those figures were down from 6.2% and 3.2%, respectively, in July.
(NEW YORK) — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a health alert on Friday that common respiratory viruses circulating this fall could lead to a rise in a rare, but serious condition that usually affects children called acute flaccid myelitis, AFM. This condition causes weakness that starts in the arms or legs and can lead to permanent paralysis or become life-threatening in severe cases.
AFM is known to occur every other year and is most common from August through November, according to the CDC. Before 2020, confirmed AFM cases were increasing in 2014, 2016, and 2018 growing from 120, 153 and 238 in these years.
The picture of AFM changed in 2020 when only 33 cases were confirmed. This is believed to be the effect of efforts aimed at mitigating COVID-like physical distancing and masking that led to fewer respiratory viral infections overall. As of early September 2022, 13 cases of AFM have been identified across five states.
But raising concern now is that a specific strain of a virus in the Enterovirus family that is linked to AFM, called EV-D68, has been reported in higher proportions compared to previous years on surveillance testing, the CDC said in the health alert on Friday. Because the neurological complications of AFM occur after the initial respiratory viral infection, there is concern that AFM cases could be on the rise in the coming weeks.
Prevention measures that slow the spread of many viruses can also prevent the viruses that are linked to AFM. The CDC recommends practicing routine hand washing, avoid sharing food or drinks with people who aren’t feeling well, sanitizing surfaces after use by someone who may be sick, and consider wearing a mask around others when experiencing cold-like symptoms.
What are early signs of acute flaccid myelitis
“The warning sign is often, you know, a child who’s recovering from a routine illness and then the recovery stops looking like what you would expect – they’re now getting worse again, and especially if they become weak,” Dr. Matt Elrick, assistant professor of neurology at the Kennedy Krieger Institute who specializes in AFM, told ABC News.
But Elrick said recognizing new weaknesses in kids may be easier said than done because kids may not tell you that they are having weakness in their arms or legs, and instead may say the affected limb hurts, stop using it altogether, or simply appear very tired. This vague onset can make early recognition difficult or delayed.
Still, Elrick said the threat of AFM should not cause panic among caregivers and AFM is rare, noting that asthma flare ups are a more common complication of these viruses compared to AFM.
“This is exceptionally rare even during an outbreak so it’s not something that should necessarily keep everyone up at night. But if your child has an illness and was recovering and is now getting worse again, or not behaving in the way that you might expect the normal recovery from illness to be, that’s a good reason to go see the pediatrician and sort out what’s going on,” Elrick said.
The CDC also said to see a health care provider immediately if you or your child have problems breathing or suddenly have limb weakness and to keep all asthma action plans up to date.
(NEW YORK) — Police fatally shot a Michigan man after he allegedly killed his wife and dog, and wounded his daughter, according to law enforcement officials.
Police responded to a call around 4 a.m. Sunday from a woman who had allegedly been shot by her dad, whom police identified as 53-year-old Igor Lanis, the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office said.
After officers arrived at the home, they heard gunshots and began to approach the residence when the suspect emerged from the front door and began firing at them with a shotgun, police said.
A Walled Lake police officer and an Oakland County Sheriff’s deputy returned fire, striking and killing Lanis, according to authorities.
Officers said they saw the 25-year-old woman who called 911 at the front door “attempting to crawl from the home” before dragging her to safety, authorities said.
“She stated that her dad shot her and her mother,” the sheriff’s office wrote. “She was transported to an area hospital and rushed into emergency surgery.”
“Currently, the daughter has been stabilized, but obviously she has super traumatic injuries from a shotgun blast to her back and legs,” Oakland County Sheriff Michael Bouchard said during a news conference Monday.
Law enforcement officials searched the home and discovered the body of a 56-year-old woman who had been “shot multiple times in the back, and it appears that she was also attempting to flee out of the front door,” the sheriff’s office said.
The family dog had also been “shot multiple times and killed,” according to authorities.
The Oakland County Special Investigations Unit and the Walled Lake Police Department are conducting an investigation.
(LOS ANGELES) — Rapper PnB Rock, an up-and-coming hip-hop artist from Philadelphia, was fatally shot Monday afternoon during a robbery at Roscoe’s Chicken & Waffles in South Los Angeles, police sources told ABC News. He was 30 years old.
Although the Los Angeles Police Department did not officially name the victim, sources at the LAPD told ABC News on Monday evening that the rapper, whose legal name is Rakim Hasheem Allen, was the victim seen in social media videos of the incident captured by witnesses.
The rapper was at the South LA eatery with his girlfriend, according to his social media account, where he shared that he was eating at Roscoe’s in a since-deleted message.
Police said they received a call about a shooting at 1:23 p.m. ET and found a male victim with gunshot wounds. He was transported to an area hospital. According to the LAPD, the victim and a woman were eating in the restaurant when they were approached by at least one suspect who pulled a firearm demanding property. The suspect shot the victim multiple times, removed property and left in a getaway car, according to police.
“What occurred was the victim, along with a female witness, were in this area eating at a restaurant when they were approached by at least one suspect, who brandished a firearm and demanded property from the victim,” LAPD Capt. Kelly Muniz said during a Monday afternoon press conference. “The suspect then shot the victim multiple times, and removed property and then left the location in a getaway car.”
Muniz said that multiple shots were fired, and that others on the scene were not injured.
When asked about reports that Allen shared his location on social media ahead of the robbery, Muniz said, “We always are gonna look into the social media,” but added that police couldn’t “verify” that yet.
Police said they are examining surveillance video to identify potential suspects.
Allen released a number of hits that charted on the Billboard Hot 100 and was featured in XXL Magazine’s Freshman Class of rappers to watch in 2017.
(WASHINGTON) — The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service issued a public health alert Saturday over ground beef products in HelloFresh meal kits that were shipped in July over a possible E. coli contamination.
The meal kits containing the affected ground beef packages were shipped to consumers from July 2 to July 21, according to the alert.
Consumers should look for the Hello Fresh 10-ounce plastic vacuum-sealed packages containing “GROUND BEEF 85% LEAN/15% FAT” with codes “EST#46841 L1 22 155” or “EST#46841 L5 22 155” on the side of the packaging, the FSIS said.
“The ground beef packages bear ‘EST.46841’ inside the USDA mark of inspection and on the plastic ground beef package,” the statement read.
The FSIS said it isn’t issuing a recall because the affected products are no longer available for purchase, but the agency said it has concerns for anyone who still has the package in their freezers. If so, they are asked not to cook or eat the product and throw it away immediately.
The FSIS said it is investigating an E. coli outbreak and that raw ground beef is the probable source of the reported illnesses.
(WASHINGTON) — About 40 subpoenas were issued by the Justice Department last week as part of its criminal investigation into the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, sources familiar with the matter tell ABC News.
Among those subpoenaed are close advisers to former President Donald Trump, as well as former White House officials and staffers from his 2020 presidential campaign ranging from lower-level staffers to those at the highest levels of the campaign.
At least one top Trump adviser, Boris Epshteyn, recently had his phone seized as part of this effort, the sources said.
Epshteyn did not respond to a request for comment from ABC News.
The New York Times first reported news of the roughly 40 subpoenas.
As ABC News has previous reported, the subpoenas are seeking information from witnesses about Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election, the events leading up to and surrounding the Jan. 6 attack, and the fundraising and spending efforts of the Trump-aligned Save America PAC.
(NEW YORK) — Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II “died peacefully” on Thursday, Sept. 8, at Balmoral Castle, the British royal family’s estate in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, according to a statement from Buckingham Palace. She was 96.
Elizabeth was Britain’s longest-reigning monarch. She ascended to the throne in 1952 and, in June, celebrated her Platinum Jubilee, marking 70 years as queen.
Here’s how the news is developing. All times Eastern:
Sep 13, 5:36 AM EDT
Queen Elizabeth II set to make final journey to London on Tuesday
Thousands of well-wishers in Scotland have been paying their respects to Queen Elizabeth II as her coffin currently remains at St. Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh until 12 p.m. ET. The queen, accompanied by the Princess Royal, will then will start her final journey to London.
The queen’s coffin is expected to land at RAF Northolt at approximately 2 p.m. ET. It will then be driven to London before arriving at Buckingham Palace at 2:50 p.m. The route she will take to the palace has been publicized and large crowds are expected, along with an outpouring of emotion, as the queen returns to her capital for the last time.
Queen Elizabeth II will lie in state at Westminster Hall for four days beginning on Wednesday at 12 p.m. ET.
Sep 12, 4:10 PM EDT
Queen’s children hold vigil at her coffin
King Charles III and his siblings, Princess Anne and Princes Andrew and Edward, held a vigil at their mother’s coffin at St. Giles’ Cathedral in Scotland.
On Tuesday, Princess Anne will travel with the queen’s coffin to London.
Sep 12, 1:48 PM EDT
King Charles addresses Scottish Parliament
King Charles III was greeted by Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon when he arrived at Scottish Parliament on Monday.
Charles said to Parliament members, “I know that the Scottish Parliament and the people of Scotland share with me a profound sense of grief at the death of my beloved mother. Through all the years of her reign, The Queen, like so many generations of our family before her, found in the hills of this land, and in the hearts of its people, a haven and a home. My mother felt, as I do, the greatest admiration for the Scottish people, for their magnificent achievements and their indomitable spirit.”
Charles said he’s passing to his son Prince William the title of “Duke of Rothesay, and the other Scottish titles which I have had the honour to carry for so long.”
He continued, “I take up my new duties with thankfulness for all that Scotland has given me, with resolve to seek always the welfare of our country and its people, and with wholehearted trust in your goodwill and good counsel as we take forward that task together.”
Sep 12, 10:32 AM EDT
Queen’s coffin brought inside St. Giles’ Cathedral
The queen’s coffin has arrived inside St. Giles’ Cathedral in Edinburgh, Scotland.
The wreath of flowers on the coffin includes dried white heather from the queen’s beloved Balmoral Castle in Scotland.
After the service, the coffin will remain at the cathedral for 24 hours so the people of Scotland can pay their respects.
Sep 12, 10:22 AM EDT
Queen’s children follow coffin from Holyroodhouse to St. Giles’ Cathedral
Queen Elizabeth II’s four children — the new King Charles III, Princess Anne and Princes Andrew and Edward — are walking behind the hearse carrying her coffin from Palace of Holyroodhouse to St. Giles’ Cathedral in Scotland.
The walk is nearly one mile.
The people of Scotland have lined up to silently watch the procession.
The coffin will lie in rest at St. Giles’ Cathedral on Monday. The coffin will be flown to London on Tuesday.
Sep 12, 10:08 AM EDT
24-hour access for public to attend queen’s lying-in-state in London
Members of the public will be able to pay their final respects to Queen Elizabeth II later this week, as the late monarch lies in state at the U.K. Houses of Parliament in London for four days.
According to a press release from the U.K. government on Monday, people will be allowed to “file past the coffin 24 hours a day” inside Westminster Hall from 5 p.m. local time on Wednesday until 6:30 a.m. local time on Sept. 19, the day of the funeral.
“Those wishing to attend will be required to queue for many hours, possibly overnight,” the government added. “Large crowds are expected and people are encouraged to check ahead, plan accordingly and be prepared for long wait times.”
All attendees must go through “airport-style security and there are tight restrictions on what you can take in, with only small bags permitted,” according to the government.
Sep 12, 10:05 AM EDT
Queen’s children follow coffin from Holyroodhouse to St. Giles’ Cathedral
Queen Elizabeth II’s four children — the new King Charles III, Princess Anne and Princes Andrew and Edward — are walking behind the hearse carrying her coffin from Palace of Holyroodhouse to St. Giles’ Cathedral in Scotland.
The walk is nearly one mile.
The people of Scotland have lined up to silently watch the procession.
The coffin will lie in rest at St. Giles’ Cathedral on Monday. The coffin will be flown to London on Tuesday.
Sep 12, 9:52 AM EDT
King Charles given keys to city of Edinburgh
King Charles III was presented with keys to the city of Edinburgh after he arrived in Scotland on Monday, as a part of the Ceremony of the Keys tradition as monarch. Edinburgh Lord Provost Robert Aldridge welcomed the new king to his “ancient and hereditary kingdom of Scotland.”
Sep 12, 7:37 AM EDT
King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort, arrive in Edinburgh
Britain’s King Charles III and his wife Camilla, Queen Consort, traveled on Monday from London to Edinburgh, where they will walk behind his mother’s coffin as it is transported in a procession through the Scottish capital.
Thousands of people have lined the streets since the coffin carrying the late Queen Elizabeth II began its final journey from Balmoral Castle in Scotland, where the 96-year-old monarch died last Thursday. On Monday, the coffin will be moved from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St. Giles’ Cathedral, with Charles and Camilla walking behind it along Edinburgh’s Royal Mile.
A service to celebrate the late queen’s life will take place Monday afternoon at St. Giles’ Cathedral, where members of the public will be able to pay their respects and view the coffin for 24 hours before it is flown to London on Tuesday.
Charles and Camilla will also hold a vigil at St. Giles Cathedral on Monday evening.
Sep 12, 6:00 AM EDT
King Charles III addresses UK Parliament for 1st time
King Charles III addressed the U.K. Houses of Parliament for the first time as sovereign on Monday morning.
Speakers from both Houses of Parliament addressed the new king at Westminster Hall in London. Charles, accompanied by his wife Camilla, Queen Consort, then gave a reply in front of some 1,200 people gathered inside.
“As I stand before you today, I cannot help but feel the weight of history which surrounds us and which reminds us of the vital parliamentary traditions to which members of both Houses dedicate yourselves, with such personal commitment for the betterment of us all,” Charles said in a brief speech.
“We gather today in remembrance of the remarkable span of the queen’s dedicated service to her nations and peoples. While very young, her late majesty pledged herself to serve her country and her people and to maintain the precious principles of constitutional government which lie at the heart of our nation,” he added. “This vow she kept with unsurpassed devotion. She set an example of selfless duty which, with God’s help and your counsels, I am resolved faithfully to follow.”
Sep 12, 5:34 AM EDT
Prince Harry pays tribute to queen in 1st statement since her death
Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, paid tribute to his grandmother on Monday in his first statement since her death, thanking the late queen for her “commitment to service,” “sound advice” and “infectious smile.”
“In celebrating the life of my grandmother, Her Majesty The Queen—and in mourning her loss—we are all reminded of the guiding compass she was to so many in her commitment to service and duty,” Harry said. “She was globally admired and respected. Her unwavering grace and dignity remained true throughout her life and now her everlasting legacy. Let us echo the words she spoke after the passing of her husband, Prince Philip, words which can bring comfort to all of us now: ‘Life, of course, consists of final partings as well as first meetings.'”
“Granny, while this final parting brings us great sadness, I am forever grateful for all of our first meetings — from my earliest childhood memories with you, to meeting you for the first time as my Commander-in-Chief, to the first moment you met my darling wife and hugged your beloved great- grandchildren,” he continued. “I cherish these times shared with you, and the many other special moments in between. You are already sorely missed, not just by us, but by the world over. And as it comes to first meetings, we now honour my father in his new role as King Charles III.”
“Thank you for your commitment to service. Thank you for your sound advice. Thank you for your infectious smile,” he added. “We, too, smile knowing that you and grandpa are reunited now, and both together in peace.”
Sep 11, 10:54 PM EDT
How the public can attend Queen Elizabeth’s lying in state at Westminster Hall
The U.K. government has released details on how members of the public can pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, who will lie in state at Westminster Hall from Wednesday until Monday, Sept. 19.
The queen’s coffin will travel in a ceremonial procession from Buckingham Palace to the Palace of Westminster for the lying in state, the U.K. government said on its website, where it will rest on a raised platform and “be draped in the Royal Standard with the Orb and Sceptre placed on top.”
“Each corner of the platform will be guarded around the clock by a vigil of units from the Sovereign’s Bodyguard, the Household Division, or Yeoman Warders of the Tower of London,” the government said.
Members of the public will be able to file past the coffin 24 hours a day, starting at 5 p.m. local time on Wednesday until 6:30 a.m. on the day of the queen’s funeral, Sept. 19.
The government advised the public to expect to wait in line for long hours, “possibly overnight,” and that there would be “airport-style security” and only small bags permitted, as well as restrictions on what can be taken inside.
President Joe Biden has formally accepted an invitation to attend Queen Elizabeth’s funeral on Sept. 19 at Westminster Abbey in London, the White House said Sunday.
“This morning, President Biden formally accepted an invitation to attend the State Funeral Service of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on September 19. He will be accompanied by the First Lady,” the statement from the White House reads.
Sep 10, 12:50 PM EDT
Prince William, Princess Kate, Prince Harry, Meghan Markle view flowers together
Prince William and Prince Harry, and their wives, Princess Kate and Meghan Markle, viewed flowers together outside Windsor Castle Saturday.
This is the first time the four have been seen together in public since Harry and Meghan stepped down as senior members of the royal family and moved to the United States.
A representative for William, the Prince of Wales told ABC News the prince invited the Duke and Duchess to join him and the Princess of Wales.
Sep 10, 12:21 PM EDT
Queen’s funeral to be held Sept. 19
Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral will be held on Sept. 19, Buckingham Palace announced Saturday.
Sep 10, 12:07 PM EDT
William, Prince of Wales, makes 1st statement since the queen’s death
William, Prince of Wales said he is grateful for the queen’s presence in his life, in his first statement since the death of the queen. William said that he recognized the world lost an “extraordinary leader.”
“I, however, have lost a grandmother. And while I will grieve her loss, I also feel incredibly grateful. I have had the benefit of The Queen’s wisdom and reassurance into my fifth decade. My wife has had twenty years of her guidance and support. My three children have got to spend holidays with her and create memories that will last their whole lives,” William said.
“She was by my side at my happiest moments. And she was by my side during the saddest days of my life. I knew this day would come, but it will be some time before the reality of life without Grannie will truly feel real,” William said.
“I thank her for the kindness she showed my family and me. And I thank her on behalf of my generation for providing an example of service and dignity in public life that was from a different age, but always relevant to us all,” William said.
Sep 10, 7:20 AM EDT
King Charles III officially proclaimed king by Accession Council at St James’s Palace in London
King Charles III has been formally proclaimed monarch at a historic Accession Council in the State Apartments of St James’s Palace at 5 a.m. on Saturday. The ceremony is being televised for the first time in history.
A Principal Proclamation will then be read in public for the first time by the Garter King of Arms in the open air from the balcony overlooking Friary Court at St James’s an hour later at 6 a.m. ET.
It will be followed by a flurry of Proclamations around the country, with the second one at City of London at the Royal Exchange at midday on Saturday, and further Proclamations in Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales at midday on Sunday.
Buckingham Palace issued details of the arrangements, considered the first official orders of business of a new reign, on Friday.
Charles automatically became King on the death of his mother, but the Accession Council is usually convened at St James’s in London within 24 hours of the death of a sovereign.
Historically, the entire Privy Council is summoned to the Accession Council to oversee the formal proclamation of a new monarch.
But with the number of privy counsellors –- who are lifetime members and mostly past and present politicians –- now standing at more than 700, restrictions have been put in place. This does not affect the constitutional process.
Sep 10, 4:59 AM EDT
King Charles III to receive several key audiences today at Buckingham Palace
King Charles III will undertake a number of important meetings at Buckingham Palace today following his formal proclamation as king this morning.
The king is scheduled to meet with Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury, at 9 a.m. ET followed by a meeting with the U.K.’s newly appointed prime minister, Liz Truss, and members of her cabinet at 9:30 a.m. ET.
At 10 a.m. ET, King Charles II will receive the leaders of the opposition parties at Buckingham Palace before his final scheduled meeting of the day at 11 a.m. ET where he will receive David Hoyle, the Dean of Westminster.
Sep 09, 8:02 PM EDT
A look at Queen Elizabeth’s lifelong love of corgis
Perhaps no animal has been so closely associated with a world figure as corgis were with Queen Elizabeth II.
Her death sparked an outpouring of photographs and drawings of her and her dogs throughout the years.
Fellow dog owners are also planning to celebrate the queen’s life of service with a corgi parade outside of Buckingham Palace next month, the U.K. newspaper The Daily Mirror reported.
Sep 09, 1:52 PM EDT
Biden says he will attend the queen’s funeral
President Joe Biden told reporters Friday that he will be attending Queen Elizabeth II’s funeral.
“Yes. I don’t know what the details are yet, but I’ll be going,” Biden told reporters on the tarmac of Ohio’s Columbus International Airport.
Buckingham Palace has not yet announced when the queen’s funeral will be held.
Asked if he had spoken to King Charles III yet, Biden said, “I know him, I haven’t spoken to him. I did not call him yet.”
Sep 09, 1:36 PM EDT
King Charles III pledges to uphold Britain’s constitutional principals
In his first speech as monarch, King Charles III pledged to follow in the footsteps of Queen Elizabeth II, upholding Britain’s Constitution.
“As the queen herself did with such unswerving devotion, I too now solemnly pledge myself throughout the remaining time God grants me, to uphold the constitutional principles at the heart of our nation,” King Charles III said.
“And, wherever you may live in the United Kingdom, or in the realms and territories across the world, and whatever may be your background or beliefs, I shall endeavor to serve you with loyalty, respect and love as I have throughout my life,” he added.
The king also recognized his new role, and the changes it will bring.
“My life will, of course, change as I take up my new responsibilities. It will no longer be possible for me to give so much of my time and energies to the charities and issues for which I care so deeply. But, I know this important work will go on in the trusted hands of others,” the king later said.
Sep 09, 1:18 PM EDT
New titles announced for Prince William and Catherine
King Charles III announced new titles for his son, Prince William, and his son’s wife, Catherine, previously the duke and duchess of Cambridge.
They are now the new prince and princess of Wales, the new king announced in a speech from Buckingham Palace Friday.
“Our new prince and princess of Wales will, I know, continue to inspire and lead our national conversations,” King Charles said in the prerecorded message.
William’s mother, Diana, was the last princess of Wales. Charles’ wife, Camilla, never took the title. With Charles’ ascension, her title is now queen consort.
King Charles also mentioned his younger son, Prince Harry, and his wife, Meghan, the duke and duchess of Sussex.
“I want also to express my love for Harry and Meghan, as they continue to build their lives overseas,” the king said.
Sep 09, 1:17 PM EDT
‘Thank you for your love and devotion,’ King Charles III remembers the queen
In his first address, King Charles III ended his address thanking his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, for her lifetime of service and her love and devotion.
“To my darling mama, as you begin your gray last journey to join my dear late papa, I want simply to say this. Thank you. Thank you for your love and devotion to our family, and to the family of nations you have served so diligently all these years,” King Charles III said.
The king also expressed his gratitude for the “condolences and support” that his family has received after the passing of the queen.
Sep 09, 1:10 PM EDT
King Charles III expresses ‘profound grief’ after death of the queen
King Charles III delivered his first address as monarch Friday, in remembrance of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II, saying her death has brought him “profound sorrow” and “great sadness.”
“Throughout her life, her majesty, the queen, my beloved mother, was an inspiration. An example to me and to all my family. And we owe her the most heartfelt debt any family could owe to their mother for her love, affection, guidance, understanding and example,” King Charles said.
The king said the queen’s affection, admiration and respect were a hallmark of her reign.
“I pay tribute to my mother’s memory and I honor her service,” he later added.
Sep 09, 12:25 PM EDT
Prime Minister Liz Truss meets with king
British Prime Minister Liz Truss met with King Charles III Friday, shortly after he arrived at Buckingham Palace.
Sep 09, 11:13 AM EDT
English Premier League postpones weekend matches
England’s top soccer league has postponed its slate of matches this weekend in tribute to the queen’s death.
“We and our clubs would like to pay tribute to Her Majesty’s long and unwavering service to our country,” Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said in a statement. “As our longest-serving monarch, she has been an inspiration and leaves behind an incredible legacy following a life of dedication.”
He continued, “This is a tremendously sad time for not just the nation, but also for the millions of people around the world who admired her, and we join together with all those in mourning her passing.”
The queen never made her “football” allegiances clear over her reign, but the new king, Charles III, has been public about his support for Burnley Football Club. With the postponements, he’ll have to hold off on watching their next match against Norwich City.
The EPL said it would announce any further postponements, such as on the day of the queen’s funeral, “in due course.”
Sep 09, 9:43 AM EDT
King Charles III views flowers outside Buckingham Palace
King Charles III has landed in London, returning from Balmoral Castle where the queen was when she died. The king walked outside Buckingham Palace, shaking hands and greeting people who gathered to share their condolences.
The king and Camila, the queen consort, walked outside the gates of Buckingham Palace viewing flowers left by people mourning the death of the queen.
As the king arrived outside, the Royal Standard was raised above Buckingham Palace for the first time during his reign.
Sep 09, 8:53 AM EDT
British Parliament members pays tribute to the queen
Both British houses of Parliament are meeting Friday for members to pay tribute to the queen in a special session of condolence.
Politics in both Houses will be on hold for a period of mourning.
“For the 70 glorious years of her reign, our queen was at the heart of this nation’s life,” Labour Party leader Sir Keir Starmer said. “She did not simply reign over us, she lived alongside us.”
“It seems impossible to imagine a Britain without her,” he added.
There will also be a rare Saturday meeting where senior members of Parliament can take an oath of allegiance to the king. The meeting will end with an address to the king expressing condolences following his mother’s death.
House of Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle will determine the timetable in the House for the following days, which is expected to be significantly reduced until after the state funeral for the queen.
This means new laws cannot be passed until Parliament returns, though it could be recalled for pressing matters.
-ABC News’ Zoe Magee
Sep 09, 8:37 AM EDT
King Charles III set to deliver remarks today
King Charles III will return to London this afternoon to record a televised address to the nation from Buckingham Palace. The speech will air at 1 p.m. ET before he attends the national service of thanksgiving for his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, at St. Paul’s Cathedral at 2 p.m. ET.
King Charles will be officially proclaimed king at 6 a.m. ET on Saturday from the balcony at St James’ Palace. The first son of Queen Elizabeth II became king the minute his mother died but the formal announcement will be made on Saturday.
Sep 09, 7:24 AM EDT
Sec. of State Antony Blinken comments on death of Queen Elizabeth II
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has shared the following statement to the people of the United Kingdom following the death of Queen Elizabeth II on Sept. 8, 2022:
Together with the American people, I extend my deepest sympathies to His Majesty The King, the entire Royal Family, the people of the United Kingdom, and the peoples of the Commonwealth on the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
For more than 70 years – a period during which the United Kingdom and the world witnessed unprecedented change – Queen Elizabeth personified a sense of stability. During a time of tremendous division, she was a source of unity.
Her influence extended well beyond the Commonwealth. As Queen, she visited more than 120 countries, including the United States, where she made a point of meeting not only with leaders, but with people from all walks of life. She was the embodiment of the special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom, and a symbol of the enduring alliance that has seen our nations through the greatest tests of the 20th and 21st centuries.
We join people around the world in mourning her passing, and we will forever be inspired by the memory of her service, leadership, and friendship.
Sep 09, 5:17 AM EDT
The queen’s final moments
Prince Charles and Princess Anne were with their mother in her final hours.
Prince Andrew and Prince Edward and his wife Sophie raced to be by her side, as did her grandsons Prince William and Prince Harry but they did not get there in time.
Sep 09, 12:36 AM EDT
World reacts to Queen Elizabeth II’s death
Cities around the world joined in mourning Queen Elizabeth II’s death on Thursday.
With Queen Elizabeth II’s death, Camilla becomes queen consort
With the death of Queen Elizabeth II, her eldest son Charles becomes king and his wife Camilla becomes queen consort.
The queen made the request for the title in February, saying that “it is my sincere wish that, when that time comes, Camilla will be known as Queen Consort as she continues her own loyal service.”
The statement marked the first time the queen had publicly addressed her daughter-in-law’s role in the future monarchy.
The eldest son of Britain’s longest-reigning monarch has taken his late mother’s place on the throne.
King Charles III is the first child of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh. Upon the death of his mother on Sept. 8, Charles succeeded her as king of the United Kingdom and the other Commonwealth realms.
Charles, 73, was born at Buckingham Palace in London in 1948. He was just 3 years old when he became the heir apparent as his mother acceded to the throne as queen, following the death of her father, King George VI.
Sep 08, 3:26 PM EDT
Biden orders flags to half-staff
In a new proclamation, President Joe Biden has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff “until sunset, on the day of interment,” as a “mark of the respect for the memory of Queen Elizabeth II.”
“I hereby order that the flag of the United States shall be flown at half-staff at the White House and upon all public buildings and grounds, at all military posts and naval stations, and on all naval vessels of the Federal Government in the District of Columbia and throughout the United States and its Territories and possessions until sunset, on the day of interment,” the proclamation reads.
He continued, “I also direct that the flag shall be flown at half-staff for the same length of time at all United States embassies, legations, consular offices, and other facilities abroad, including all military facilities and naval vessels and stations.”
-ABC News’ Molly Nagle
Sep 08, 3:15 PM EDT
Former US presidents react over queen’s death
Former presidents of the United States have released statements in reaction to the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch.
President Bill Clinton said in a statement that he and former first lady Hillary Clinton are mourning the passing of Her Majesty with the royal family and the rest of the world, describing her life as “extraordinary.”
“Throughout her remarkable 70-year reign, she led Britain through great transformations with unfailing grace, dignity, and genuine care for the welfare of all its people,” Bill Clinton said. “In sunshine or storm, she was a source of stability, serenity and strength.”
Bill Clinton added that he and Hillary Clinton “will always be grateful” to the kindness the queen showed them during visits to Buckingham Palace in 1995 and 2000.
President George W. Bush said in a statement that he and former first lady Laura Bush were “honored” to know the queen, describing her as a “woman of great intellect, charm and wit.”
“Spending time at Buckingham Palace, and having tea with Her Majesty — and her Corgis — is among our fondest memories of the presidency,” George W. Bush said.
The queen was able to lead the U.K. through dark moments with “her confidence in her people and her vision for a brighter tomorrow,” George W. Bush said.
“Our world benefitted from her steady resolve, and we are grateful for her decades of service as sovereign,” George W. Bush said. “Americans in particular appreciate her strong and steadfast friendship.”
President Barack Obama said in a statement that he and former first lady Michelle Obama were “lucky enough to come to know Her Majesty,” adding that the queen “meant a great deal to” to them.
“Back when we were just beginning to navigate life as President and First Lady, she welcomed us to the world stage with open arms and extraordinary generosity,” Barack Obama said. “Time and again, we were struck by her warmth, the way she put people at ease, and how she brought her considerable humor and charm to moments of great pomp and circumstance.”
Barack Obama continued, “Like so many, Michelle and I are grateful to have witnessed Her Majesty’s dedicated leadership, and we are awed by her legacy of tireless, dignified public service. Our thoughts are with her family and the people of the United Kingdom at this difficult time.”
President Donald Trump also released a statement following the news of the queen’s death, saying that he and former first lady Melania Trump will always cherish their time together with the queen and will “never forget Her Majesty’s generous friendship, great wisdom, and wonderful sense of humor.”
“Melania and I are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II,” Donald Trump said on Truth Social, his social media platform. “Together with our family and fellow Americans, we send our sincere condolences to the Royal Family and the people of the United Kingdom during this time of great sorrow and grief. Queen Elizabeth’s historic and remarkable reign left a tremendous legacy of peace and prosperity for Great Britain.”
Sep 08, 2:47 PM EDT
UK thrived under Elizabeth’s reign, says Liz Truss
The newly appointed prime minister of the United Kingdom, Liz Truss, emphasized the importance of Queen Elizabeth II’s rule while addressing the death of Britain’s longest-reigning monarch on Thursday.
“Queen Elizabeth II was the rock on which modern Britain was built,” Truss said outside of 10 Downing Street on Thursday. “Our country has grown and flourished under her reign. Britain is the great country it is today because of her.”
Among the accomplishments Truss highlighted were Elizabeth’s accomplishment of growing the Commonwealth from a small group of seven countries to a “family of 56 nations” as well as visiting more than 100 countries as sovereign.
The queen, who met with Truss on Tuesday at Balmoral, invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative Party, to form a new government as prime minister, an act emblematic of the queen’s devotion to duty, Truss said.
“Earlier this week, at 96, she remained determined to carry out her duties as she appointed me as her 15th prime minister,” Truss said, describing her as the “the very spirit of Great Britain.”
Truss also extended condolences to the now-King Charles III, calling for the country to support him in the passing of the crown.
“We offer him our loyalty, and devotion, just as his mother devoted so much to so many for so long,” Truss said.
Sep 08, 2:21 PM EDT
Charles on queen’s passing: ‘A moment of the greatest sadness’
The queen’s eldest son and new king of England — who will be known as King Charles III — released a statement following his mother’s passing.
“The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family,” Charles said.
“I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world,” the statement continued.
Sep 08, 2:06 PM EDT
UK lowers flags to half-mast as rainbows appear
The U.K. ordered all flags to fly at half-mast in the wake of the queen’s death Thursday.
In a bit of fortuitous timing, the rain clouds eased up following the announcement and rainbows appeared over Buckingham Palace.
U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also ordered the flags to fly at half-mast over the Capitol in tribute to the monarch, according to her deputy chief of staff.
Sep 08, 2:02 PM EDT
How the British royal line of succession changes
With the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, there is a new line of succession to the British throne.
The queen’s oldest son, Charles, the Prince of Wales, is now the new king. Members of his direct family — including his sons, Princes William and Harry — are now higher in the line of succession.
In general, succession falls to the first-born child of the heir and their children, followed by the next oldest sibling of the heir and their offspring and so on.
Sep 08, 1:51 PM EDT
What comes next after queen’s passing?
With the queen’s death come questions about what happens next, as the world has not witnessed a changeover in Britain’s monarchy in 70 years.
The U.K. government and the royal family have been planning for years to ensure a smooth transition after the queen’s death, and to appropriately honor her history-making reign.
Buckingham Palace announced Thursday that Queen Elizabeth II has died. She was 96.
“The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon,” the palace said in a statement. “The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow.”
Elizabeth is survived by her three sons, Charles, Prince of Wales; Prince Andrew, Duke of York; and Prince Edward, Earl of Wessex; her daughter, Anne, Princess Royal; her eight grandchildren, Prince William, Duke of Cambridge; Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex; Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie; Peter and Zara Phillips; Lady Louise Windsor; and James, Viscount Severn. She is also survived by 12 great-grandchildren.
Her oldest son, Charles, succeeds her as king. His wife, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall, is expected to become queen consort, a title that Elizabeth requested at the time of her Platinum Jubilee in June.
Charles’s oldest son, William, is now heir apparent to the throne.
Sep 08, 1:10 PM EDT
Biden briefed on queen’s health, White House says
U.S. President Joe Biden has been briefed on Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II and “will be updated throughout the day concerning news out of the United Kingdom,” given the reports of her health, White House spokesperson John Kirby said Thursday
“His and the first lady’s thoughts are solidly and squarely with the queen today and her family,” Kirby told reporters.
Biden also expressed that his thoughts are with U.K. Prime Minister Liz Truss, who took office on Tuesday and is currently taking part in a previously scheduled phone call with Biden and other allies focused on “continued support for Ukraine,” according to Kirby.
“I can tell you that in this video conference that the president is having as we speak, I can tell you that he did convey to Prime Minister Truss, who is on the video teleconference, that he and Dr. Biden are thinking very much of the queen and the family and the people of the United Kingdom,” Kirby said.
-ABC News’ Molly Nagle
Sep 08, 10:05 AM EDT
UK prime minister ‘deeply concerned’ about queen
U.K. Prime Minister Liz Truss took to Twitter on Thursday to say that her “thoughts — and the thoughts of people across our United Kingdom — are with Her Majesty The Queen and her family at this time.”
“The whole country will be deeply concerned by the news from Buckingham Palace this lunchtime,” Truss tweeted.
Truss, who was recently selected as the new leader of the United Kingdom’s ruling Conservative Party, had an audience with the queen at Balmoral Castle in Scotland on Tuesday, during which she was formally asked to form a new government as prime minister after Boris Johnson’s official resignation. It was the first time in the queen’s 70-year reign that the ceremonial transfer of power was held at Balmoral, rather than at Buckingham Palace in London.
Sep 08, 9:41 AM EDT
Senior royals head to Balmoral Castle
Senior members of the British royal family are either at or on their way to Balmoral Castle in Scotland, where Queen Elizabeth II remains “under medical supervision.”
The queen’s oldest child and the heir to her throne, Charles, prince of Wales; and his wife, Camilla, duchess of Cornwall; as well as the queen’s daughter, Princess Anne, are already at Balmoral, according to their respective spokespersons.
Meanwhile, the queen’s other sons, Prince Andrew, duke of York; and Prince Edward, earl of Wessex; as well as Edward’s wife, Sophie, countess of Wessex; Charles’ two sons, Prince William, duke of Cambridge; Prince Harry, duke of Sussex; and Harry’s wife, Meghan, duchess of Sussex, are all on their way to Balmoral, their respective spokespersons confirmed.
(LOS ANGELES) — The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Los Angeles Department of Public Health have confirmed the first death due to monkeypox in a Los Angeles County resident.
The resident was “severely immunocompromised” and had been hospitalized, officials said in a statement.
“Public Health sends heartfelt condolences and wishes of healing to the family and friends mourning the loss of their loved one,” their statement read.
No additional information will be made public for privacy and confidentiality reasons, officials added.
Last week, county officials were investigating the death of someone who had been diagnosed with monkeypox.
There are more than 21,000 cases of monkeypox in the U.S., according to LA County officials.
There are 4,302 positive monkeypox cases in the state — the largest number of cases in the country, California Department of Public Health data shows. About 1,692 people have tested positive for monkeypox in LA County, according to recent data.
In Texas, a Harris County resident who had been diagnosed with monkeypox died last month, state health officials said.
According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, the patient was severely immunocompromised and died at a county hospital.
Health officials have insisted the immunocompromised get vaccinated since they are at an elevated risk of severe disease.
Most cases in the current monkeypox outbreak have been detected in gay, bisexual or other men who have sex with men. However, anyone exposed to the virus could become infected with monkeypox, officials said.
According to the CDC, monkeypox primarily spreads through continued skin-to-skin contact with infected people’s lesions or bodily fluids.
In addition to lesions, which can appear like pimples or blisters, the most common symptoms associated with monkeypox are swollen lymph nodes, fever, headache, fatigue and muscle aches.
ABC News’ Alex Stone, Marilyn Heck and Teddy Grant contributed to this report.
