Fox News Hourly Update – 4PM ET | July 18, 2025

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Accidental Explosion Claims Lives of Sheriff's Deputies in Los Angeles

At the outset of today's broadcast, Tom Graham reports a tragic incident at a Los Angeles law enforcement training facility: "Three sheriff's deputies are dead after an accidental blast" ([00:02]). Robert Luna, Louisiana County Sheriff, provides further details, stating, "They were three sworn members who were fatally killed that were assigned to our arson explosives detail. No other department members were injured or transported to any hospitals" ([00:14]).

FBI agents are currently on-site investigating the blast, which occurred while deputies were transporting explosive devices to a training location. The area remains evacuated as authorities assess the situation. California Governor Gavin Newsom has been briefed on the incident, underscoring the severity of the event.

President Trump Introduces the Genius Act to Regulate Cryptocurrency

In significant financial news, Tom Graham highlights President Trump's latest legislative move: "President Trump signing a new set of regulations for cryptocurrency" ([00:28]). President Donald Trump himself comments on the legislation, "Very important act, the Genius act. They named it after me. And I want to thank you." ([00:47]).

The Genius Act aims to legitimize the cryptocurrency industry by setting foundational guardrails and consumer protections for stablecoins, which are cryptocurrencies tethered to stable assets like the US Dollar. This move is seen as a pivotal step in integrating digital currencies into the mainstream financial system.

Education Department Releases Over $6 Billion in Federal Grants

Tom Graham continues with education-related news: "The Education Department unfreezing some federal funding for public school programs" ([00:55]). Jared Halpern elaborates, "The Trump administration is releasing more than $6 billion in federal grants for after school and summer programs in English language instruction" ([01:13]).

This funding initiative is supported by ten Republican senators who advocated for the release of these grants, emphasizing that "the programs are critical to local communities and the funds are not going to radical left wing programs." Additionally, a recent Supreme Court ruling permits the administration to proceed with laying off hundreds of Education Department employees as part of a broader strategy to dismantle the cabinet-level agency at the White House ([01:13]).

Controversy Surrounds Jeffrey Epstein Prosecution and Potential Unsealing of Documents

In legal and political news, criticism persists regarding the prosecution of Jeffrey Epstein and the administration's handling of the case. Tom Graham reports, "Criticism continues over the Jeffrey Epstein prosecution as well as the administration's handling of the case" ([02:32]).

Robert Luna provides an update on President Trump's stance: "President is also making a public call for the attorney general Pam Bondi to move to release Epstein grand jury material." This initiative involves the Justice Department seeking judicial assignment to review grand jury secrecy codes, potentially allowing a reassessment of the materials that led to Epstein's imprisonment ([02:47]).

Investigation into Former President Joe Biden’s Administration Intensifies

Tom Graham shifts focus to Capitol Hill, where James Comer, Chair of the House Oversight Committee, addresses ongoing investigations: "Annie Tomasini, the former deputy chief of staff to President Biden, invoked the Fifth Amendment during her deposition" ([03:22]). Comer asserts, "there is now a pattern of key Biden confidants seeking to shield themselves from criminal liability in this potential conspiracy," indicating a deeper probe into allegations surrounding the former president's decision-making processes and mental acuity.

President Biden has responded by asserting his role in final decisions during his tenure, countering the investigations aimed at uncovering potential cover-ups and misconduct within his administration ([03:22]).

Virginia Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges Involving Explosives and Impersonation of President Biden

In security-related news, Tom Graham reports a significant legal development: "A Virginia man pleaded guilty today in a federal case that accused him of stockpiling the largest number of finished explosives in FBI history" ([04:00]). The individual, Brad Spafford, also admitted to using a photo of then-President Joe Biden for target practice.

Authorities disclosed that FBI had seized 150 pipe bombs and other homemade devices from Spafford's residence last fall, leading to his detention since December ([04:00]). Spafford's guilty plea marks a substantial case in the realm of domestic terrorism and security threats.

Conclusion

Today's Fox News Hourly Update delivered a range of critical updates spanning law enforcement tragedies, significant legislative actions by President Trump, educational funding initiatives, ongoing legal controversies involving high-profile figures, and substantial security-related prosecutions. The comprehensive coverage underscores the network's commitment to keeping listeners informed on pivotal national issues.

This summary excludes advertisements, introductions, and outros to focus solely on the core news content presented during the broadcast.