Fox News Hourly Update – August 12, 2025, 4AM ET Newscast Summary

Hosted by FOX News Podcasts, this edition of the Fox News Hourly Update covers pivotal events unfolding across the nation and globally. From significant policy shifts in Washington D.C. to major incidents affecting communities, the update provides comprehensive insights into the pressing issues of the day.

1. Federal Takeover of Washington, D.C.

President Trump's Initiative to Clean Up the Nation's Capital

In a bold move to address escalating concerns in Washington D.C., President Donald Trump announced a federal takeover aimed at combating crime, homelessness, and vandalism.

• President Trump’s Commitment:
  Carmen Roberts reported at [00:02] that President Trump declared his intention to "clean up Washington, D.C. of crime, homelessness and even graffiti."

• Pam Bondi's Support:
  Attorney General Pam Bondi echoed the administration's stance at [00:12], stating, “If our Capitol's dirty, our whole country is dirty and they don't respect us.”

• Federal Actions:
  The President has ordered the federal takeover of the D.C. police and mobilized the National Guard, with Attorney General Bondi taking command of the Metropolitan Police Department as of [00:23].

• Mayor Muriel Bowser's Response:
  Mayor of D.C., Muriel Bowser, addressed the situation at [00:43], saying, “We haven't taken our foot off the gas and we continue to look for ways to make our city safer.” She emphasized that despite a spike in crime in 2023, recent statistics indicate a decline, with violent crime reaching a 30-year low.

2. Explosion at US Steel Plant in Pennsylvania

Tragic Incident Results in Casualties

A devastating explosion at a US steel plant in Pennsylvania has resulted in fatalities and multiple injuries.

• Incident Details:
  Carmen Roberts reported at [00:50] that an explosion in Claritin led to the death of at least two workers and injuries to ten others, five of whom are in critical condition. The cause of the explosion remains unknown.

• Rescue Efforts and Casualties:
  Matt Brown provided updates at [01:03], confirming the death of a second worker amidst ongoing rescue and search operations.

3. China Trade Truce and Market Implications

President Trump Grants 90-Day Trade Truce with China

In an effort to ease trade tensions, President Trump has granted China a 90-day trade truce, allowing negotiations to continue.

• Trade Negotiations:
  Pam Bondi commented at [01:29], “They've been dealing quite nicely,” indicating a positive trajectory in discussions.

• Market Reaction:
  The announcement led to a slight dip in stock markets, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average slipping by 201 points. However, Dow futures showed a recovery, rising by 91 points in anticipation of upcoming consumer inflation data.

4. Escalation in the Israel-Gaza Conflict

Israeli Forces Reported to Have Killed 55 in Gaza

Health officials in Gaza have reported that Israeli forces have killed at least 55 individuals over the past two days. Among the casualties are people seeking aid and a well-known Al Jazeera journalist, whom Israel alleges was a Hamas militant.

• Carmen Roberts highlighted this development at [01:31], underscoring the ongoing humanitarian and geopolitical ramifications of the conflict.

5. Shooting at Target Store in Austin, Texas

Tragic Shooting Results in Three Deaths, Including a Child

A horrifying shooting incident at a Target store parking lot in Austin, Texas, has left three people dead, including a child.

• Incident Overview:
  Carmen Roberts reported at [03:07] that a 32-year-old white male suspect, with a history of mental health issues, is responsible for the killings. Police Chief Lisa Davis provided details at [03:18], explaining the suspect's actions post-shooting, including vehicle theft and evasion attempts before being apprehended through the use of a taser.

• Victim and Suspect Information:
  Kevin Yuretsky added at [03:33], “There's no information available yet about the victims or the reason for the shooting,” highlighting the ongoing investigation into the motives behind the tragedy.

6. Ford's $2 Billion Overhaul for EV Production

Automaker Invests Heavily in Electric Vehicle Manufacturing

Ford Motor Company has announced a significant investment of $2 billion to overhaul its plant in Louisville, Kentucky, aiming to enhance the production of electric vehicles (EVs).

• Investment Goals:
  Carmen Roberts detailed at [03:48] that the overhaul seeks to produce EVs that are more affordable and profitable, with the intention of outcompeting rivals in the burgeoning electric vehicle market.

7. Taylor Swift Announces 12th Studio Album

New Album Release Featured on Podcast New Heights

Music superstar Taylor Swift has unveiled her highly anticipated 12th studio album, marking her first release after acquiring ownership of her entire music catalog.

• Album Announcement:
  Carmen Roberts reported at [03:48] that Swift revealed the album name, "The Life of a Showgirl TS12," on her podcast "New Heights," hosted by her partner, Kansas City Chiefs star Travis Kelce, and his brother, retired NFL star Jason Kelce.

• Podcast Reveal:
  The exchange during the podcast included Travis Kelce presenting a mint green briefcase labeled "TS," containing the new album, as recounted at [04:27].

8. Tragic Death of Veteran Stock Car Driver in North Carolina

Robbie Brewer Passes Away After Racing Accident

A seasoned stock car driver, Robbie Brewer, tragically died following a crash during a race at Bowman Grace Stadium in Winston Salem, North Carolina.

• Accident Details:
  Carmen Roberts conveyed at [04:35] that the 53-year-old Brewer suffered a head-on collision with a wall, was rushed to the hospital, and subsequently succumbed to his injuries.

This comprehensive update reflects the latest developments as reported by Fox News. Stay informed with FOX News Podcasts for continuous coverage of breaking news and in-depth analysis.