NPR News Now: May 18, 2025, 8AM EDT – Detailed Summary
On the morning of May 18, 2025, NPR News Now delivered a comprehensive update covering significant events ranging from a suspected terrorist attack in Palm Springs to international developments involving the Taliban and chess. Below is a detailed summary of the key stories, enriched with notable quotes and insights from various authorities and reporters.
Terrorist Explosion in Palm Springs
Timestamp: 00:14 - 01:08
The episode opens with a tragic incident in Palm Springs, Southern California, where a car explosion outside a fertility clinic has been classified as an act of terrorism. Jael Snyder reported live from Washington, introducing the gravity of the situation.
Akil Davis, the Assistant Director in charge of the FBI in Los Angeles, provided crucial details:
"The FBI says a car that exploded outside a fertility clinic has left one person dead and several others injured." [00:28]
Andy Mills, Chief of Police for Palm Springs, emphasized the intentional nature of the attack:
"Make no mistake, this is an intentional act of terrorism." [00:40]
George Hale, reporting from Palm Springs, described the devastation:
"There are blocks of debris," highlighting the extensive impact on the city's commercial core near the American Reproductive Center. The area remains cordoned off as authorities continue their investigation, with no suspects currently being sought beyond the initial individual involved.
Severe Weather Devastates the Midwest and South
Timestamp: 01:08 - 02:09
Severe weather conditions struck parts of the Midwest and South, resulting in the deaths of at least 27 people, including 18 in Kentucky. George Hale from Nashville, Indiana, provided on-the-ground reporting, focusing on the destruction caused by a tornado at Brown County State Park.
Carl Lindell, Regional Manager for the Department of Natural Resources, detailed the aftermath:
"Flying debris killed one horse and injured at least one more." [01:56]
The tornado wreaked havoc on a popular campsite, known for accommodating equestrians. In addition to the livestock fatalities, three campers sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Andy Mills commented on the timing of the incident:
"Yeah, it happened right during the storm event." [01:56]
As a result, the campground and horse trails have been closed indefinitely, underscoring the severity of the storm's impact.
Inauguration of Pope Leo XIV and Calls for Unity
Timestamp: 02:09 - 03:08
In a significant religious event, tens of thousands gathered in St. Peter's Square to witness the official beginning of Pope Leo XIV's papacy. The mass saw attendance from notable figures such as Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
Ruth Sherlock, NPR's correspondent, highlighted the Pope's central message:
"His great desire for a united church, a sign of unity and communion, which becomes a leaven for a reconciled world." [02:26]
She elaborated on the expectations surrounding Pope Leo XIV, noting:
"Pope Francis, so popular with liberals inside and outside the church, was nonetheless a divisive figure... Many hope that this pope will be able to bring these different sides together in such a polarized world." [02:26]
The inauguration symbolizes a potential shift towards greater unity within the Catholic Church amidst broader societal divisions.
Brooklyn Bridge Incident Involving Mexican Navy Ship
Timestamp: 03:08 - 04:04
A dramatic incident unfolded last night when a Mexican Navy sailing ship struck the Brooklyn Bridge. Jael Snyder reported that New York City Mayor Eric Adams assured the public that the bridge sustained no major damage:
"The Brooklyn Bridge did not suffer major damage when a Mexican Navy sailing ship struck it last night, shearing off the top of its masts and killing two crew members." [03:08]
Mayor Adams provided further details:
"19 were injured, 4 were seriously injured... They were removed to Bellevue Hospital." [03:29]
With 277 people aboard the vessel, authorities ensured that those affected were receiving appropriate care. Officials stressed that initial reports of a mechanical issue remain unconfirmed as investigations continue. Traffic on the Brooklyn Bridge has resumed following safety inspections.
Taliban's Ban on Chess Sparks International Concern
Timestamp: 04:04 - 04:48
In international news, the International Chess Federation expressed deep regret over the Taliban's decision to ban chess in Afghanistan. Dia Hadid reported from Mumbai on this contentious development.
The Federation is actively seeking dialogue with international sports bodies to find a "constructive solution":
"It's unclear if one will be found." [04:04]
A Taliban spokesman justified the ban by labeling chess as a form of gambling, which is prohibited in Islam. A former head of the Chess Federation appealed to the Taliban via a public letter:
"Reminding them that chess spread through the world through Muslim travelers." [04:04]
This ban is part of a broader pattern of restrictions imposed by the Taliban, including prohibitions on broadcasting images of living creatures, banning music, and severely limiting women's participation in public life.
Conclusion
The May 18, 2025 episode of NPR News Now provided listeners with crucial updates on a spectrum of events impacting local and international communities. From the immediate concerns of terrorism and natural disasters to significant cultural and political shifts, the episode underscored the interconnectedness of today's global landscape. Through firsthand reports and authoritative voices, NPR continued to deliver timely and in-depth news coverage.