NPR News Now: April 13, 2025, 11 PM EDT

Hosted by Dale Willman

1. Trump Administration Deportations to El Salvador

At 00:17, Dale Willman reports that the Trump administration deported ten individuals to El Salvador, labeling them as gang members. This action occurs just days before Salvadorian President Nayib Bukele's visit to the White House.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio provided details, stating, "10 members of the MS-13 and Tren de Aragua gangs arrived in El Salvador Saturday night" (00:33). Rubio also lauded the partnership between former President Trump and President Bukele but withheld specific information about the deportees' identities and alleged crimes.

This move follows a controversial deportation in March, where Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia was mistakenly sent to El Salvador. The Supreme Court mandated his return, emphasizing the administration's commitment to correcting such errors.

2. Fire at Pennsylvania Governor's Residence

In an alarming incident, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and his family were evacuated from the official governor's residence in Harrisburg after a fire broke out early Sunday morning (01:12). Fortunately, no injuries were reported, though the fire caused significant damage to one section of the residence.

State Police Commissioner Christopher Paris announced, "We do have an individual in custody. His name is Cody Balmer, age 38, with a Harrisburg post office address" (01:31). Balmer faces multiple charges, including attempted murder and terrorism, as authorities investigate the motive behind the arson.

3. Russian Missile Strike on Ukraine's Northeastern City

Tragedy struck Ukraine on Palm Sunday when Russia launched ballistic missiles into a bustling northeastern city, resulting in at least 34 fatalities and over 100 injuries (01:47). President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the attack, stating, "Russia must be held accountable for striking a busy northeastern city with ballistic missiles" (02:15). He emphasized that "Wars end when war crimes are not forgotten, and when enough pressure is put on the aggressor. That's not the case now."

Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other world leaders have denounced the assault. Footage from the aftermath depicted widespread devastation, including burning vehicles, collapsed structures, and casualties strewn across the streets. This attack marks an escalation in Russia's offensive, following a breached U.S.-brokered ceasefire agreed upon a month ago.

4. Ecuador's Presidential Election

Ecuador witnessed a contentious election as President Daniel Noboa was reelected with 55.8% of the vote, according to the Election Council's figures (02:52). Noboa, a young millionaire known for his stringent crime-fighting approach, faced accusations of electoral fraud from his opponent, who has vowed to pursue a recount. The election results were announced after more than 90% of ballots were counted, solidifying Noboa's position despite the disputes.

5. Tragic Helicopter Crash in New York

A helicopter crash into the Hudson River resulted in the death of all five occupants, including the pilot (02:52). New York Senator Chuck Schumer has urged federal regulators to revoke the operating permits of New York Helicopter Tours, the company responsible for the ill-fated flight. In response to the tragedy, the company announced an immediate cessation of its operations, signaling a halt to its services amidst the ongoing investigation.

6. Rory McIlroy's Triumph at the Masters

In a dramatic finale at the Masters Golf Tournament in Augusta, Georgia, Rory McIlroy emerged victorious after a thrilling playoff against Justin Rose (03:49). McIlroy overcame a four-shot lead in the final three holes of the back nine and a missed putt on the 18th hole that sent the competition to a sudden-death playoff. This victory not only ended his 11-year major tournament drought but also secured his status as the sixth golfer in history to achieve a career Grand Slam by winning all four major championships.

Alex Helmick from WABE Atlanta highlighted the emotional and competitive roller coaster that McIlroy navigated to secure his long-awaited triumph, marking a significant milestone in his illustrious career.

7. Minecraft Movie Breaks Box Office Records

The highly anticipated Minecraft movie has shattered expectations by becoming the highest-grossing Hollywood release of the year within just two weeks (04:31). The film amassed $80.6 million in ticket sales across North American theaters during its opening weekend, bringing its domestic total to $281 million. Globally, the adaptation has surpassed $550 million in ticket sales, showcasing the massive appeal and successful transition of the popular video game to the big screen.

Conclusion

The April 13, 2025, episode of NPR News Now encapsulates a range of significant global and national events, from international deportations and electoral controversies to acts of terrorism and remarkable achievements in sports and entertainment. Each story underscores the complexities and rapid developments shaping our world today.