NPR News Now: April 27, 2025, 10AM EDT
Hosted by Jael Snyder
Tragic Attack at Vancouver’s Filipino Festival
At [00:16], Jael Snyder reports a heartbreaking incident from Vancouver, Canada, where a man drove through a crowd during the Lapu Lapu Filipino Festival, resulting in nine fatalities and numerous injuries. The festival, celebrating Filipino culture and named after a 16th-century Filipino warrior, was in its second year. Vancouver City Counselor Peter Fry expressed profound sorrow, stating at [00:37]:
“I don't even know what to say. This was a great day, wonderful event, huge community event and have ended in tragedy like this.”
A 30-year-old suspect has been arrested following a chase by bystanders. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to issue a statement regarding the tragedy. Reporter Craig McCulloch detailed that the attacker drove a black SUV through the area populated with food trucks as the festival was concluding at sunset, leading to the devastating loss of life and injuries.
Canada Prepares for Federal Elections Amid U.S. Tensions
Jael Snyder continues with upcoming political news, highlighting that Canada’s federal elections are scheduled for tomorrow. The elections are taking place amidst heightened tensions due to U.S. President Trump’s tariffs and his contentious rhetoric about making the U.S. the 51st state. These factors are likely influencing the political climate and voter sentiments in Canada.
Fatal Shooting of Georgia Sheriff’s Deputy
Authorities in Georgia are set to brief the media regarding the fatal shooting of a Columbia County sheriff's deputy during a traffic stop last night. Another deputy was also wounded in the incident. Details remain sparse as officials prepare to address the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
Deadly Explosion in Southern Iran's Port
In international news, Iranian President Mosul Peseschkian has ordered a thorough investigation into a deadly explosion at a port in southern Iran. The explosion, believed to be linked to a chemical shipment, has resulted in at least 25 deaths and hundreds of injuries. State media reports indicate that the ensuing fire is expected to be fully extinguished later today, though the exact cause of the explosion remains unclear.
Pope Francis’s Tomb Opens to the Public
Jael Snyder reports from Rome that Pope Francis’s tomb is now open to the public at St. Mary Major Basilica. As the Vatican observes nine consecutive days of mourning, pilgrims have begun arriving to pay their respects. Sarah Ventri provides further insights:
“As the funeral mass for Pope Francis ended, mourners filed out of St. Peter's Square. But soon faithful will gather again to watch for the famed white smoke emerging from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel.”
Ventri explains that the conclave to elect a new pope must commence 15 to 20 days after the pope’s death, including the mourning period. Cardinals will attend masses during these nine days, after which they will be sequestered until a successor is chosen.
US Threatens Livestock Import Restrictions on Mexico
Jael Snyder reports escalating tensions between the Trump administration and Mexico over agricultural imports. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has issued a warning via social media that the U.S. may restrict livestock imports from Mexico if the country does not effectively combat a screw worm outbreak. She provided Mexico with a set deadline to address the identified issues, threatening the closure of American ports to Mexican cattle, bison, and horses if compliance is not achieved.
Shadora Sanders Drafted by Cleveland Browns
In sports news, Shadora Sanders, the son of famed football coach Deion Sanders, has been drafted by the Cleveland Browns as the 144th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, as reported by Chandelyse Duster at [03:52]. Despite expectations of a first-round selection, Sanders was overlooked during the first two days of the draft. Demonstrating resilience, Sanders expressed his optimism:
“Just gotta remain positive, stay happy at all times and know God got you. I knew the whole time God had me, so I wasn't really panicking because I understood it's about perfect timing.” — Shadora Sanders at [04:16]
Sanders, who played quarterback for the Colorado Buffaloes under his father’s guidance, was named the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year.
Historic Titanic Letter Sells for Nearly $400,000
Jael Snyder shares a remarkable story about a Titanic survivor’s letter that has made headlines. A letter written by Archibald Gracie, a Titanic survivor, just days before the ship sank over a century ago, was sold at auction in England for nearly $400,000. The letter was acquired by a private collector in the United States, highlighting the enduring fascination and value of historical memorabilia connected to the tragic maritime disaster.
This summary captures the key events and discussions from the NPR News Now episode released on April 27, 2025. Notable quotes are included with proper attribution and timestamps to provide deeper insight into the stories.