NPR News Now – June 16, 2025, 6AM EDT
Host: Korva Coleman
Source: NPR
Description: The latest news in five minutes. Updated hourly.
1. Arrest in Fatal Shootings of Minnesota Lawmaker
Reporter: Matt Sepik
Timestamp: [00:00 - 00:51]
Minnesota authorities have apprehended a suspect in the tragic murders of a prominent Democratic state lawmaker, former House Speaker Melissa Hortman, and her husband, Mark Hortman. The 57-year-old suspect, V. Belter, was taken into custody after a nearly two-day manhunt. Belter allegedly carried out the killings by posing as a police officer and driving to the couple’s residence. In addition to the Hortmans, Belter is suspected of shooting and wounding Democratic State Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette Hoffman.
Investigators discovered a disturbing list of names and addresses belonging to public officials from at least five other states in Belter’s vehicle, raising concerns about potential motives and possible further threats. Matt Sepik of Minnesota Public Radio emphasized the severity of the situation, stating, “Investigators say they found a list of names and addresses of public officials from at least five other states in Belter's vehicle” (00:30).
2. Escalating Conflict Between Israel and Iran
Reporters: Korva Coleman & Greg Myhre
Timestamps: [00:51 - 02:12]
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Iran has intensified, marking the fourth consecutive day of exchanges that show no signs of abating. According to Iran's health ministry, Israeli strikes have resulted in the deaths of over 200 Iranians, including numerous women and children, and have injured approximately 1,000 more. Conversely, Israeli officials report that Iranian strikes have claimed more than 20 lives in Israel.
Amidst the escalating violence, President Trump expressed optimism about a potential resolution. Speaking on Truth Social, he remarked, “We can easily get a deal done between Iran and Israel and end this bloody conflict” (01:31). However, the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, remains resolute in his commitment to an extended military operation aimed at dismantling Iran's nuclear capabilities and ballistic missile arsenal. Greg Myhre of NPR elaborated, highlighting the administration's delicate balance: “Trump has tried to strike a middle ground. He's supportive of Israel and the US Military is helping Israel defend against Iranian attacks” (02:00). Despite Trump's efforts to prevent U.S. involvement in direct airstrikes against Iran, the situation remains tense as both nations continue their military actions.
3. Harvard University Challenges Executive Order Blocking International Students
Reporter: Alyssa Nadworny
Timestamp: [02:12 - 03:07]
Harvard University is set to return to federal court today as its legal team contests the Trump administration's prohibition on enrolling international students. The executive order, issued on June 4, was framed under national security concerns and has unprecedented implications for the Ivy League institution, where international students constitute roughly 25% of the student body.
Harvard has condemned the proclamation as an “illegal retaliatory step,” arguing that it infringes upon the university's First Amendment rights. Federal Judge Allison D. Burroughs, appointed during the Obama administration, has already imposed a temporary block on the order and is slated to decide on an indefinite block pending the trial's outcome. Alyssa Nadworny reported, “The presidential order at question in Monday's hearing is the first time Trump has used his executive powers to limit Harvard” (02:24). This legal battle underscores the broader tensions between federal policies and academic institutions striving to maintain diverse and inclusive environments.
4. Severe Flooding Hits San Antonio and West Virginia
Reporter: Chris Schultz
Timestamp: [03:07 - 04:29]
San Antonio, Texas, is grappling with the aftermath of a devastating flooding event that struck last week. Authorities report 13 fatalities resulting from the heavy rains, with at least six inches falling within a mere three-hour span. The downpour caused numerous vehicles to be swept into local creeks, complicating rescue efforts as search teams work tirelessly to remove debris from the waterways.
Concurrently, West Virginia has been hit by intense flash flooding over the weekend, claiming the lives of at least five individuals. Governor Patrick Morrissey declared a state of emergency in Ohio County after the region experienced over three inches of rain within 30 minutes. By Sunday evening, another state of emergency was declared for Marion County following the partial collapse of an apartment building due to rising floodwaters. Governor Morrissey emphasized the immediate focus on rescue operations, stating, “The focus was on search and rescue before assessing the full damage” (03:46). The National Guard has been mobilized to support ongoing search and rescue missions as several residents remain missing.
5. Widespread Cable Outages in Los Angeles Due to Vandalism
Reporter: Korva Coleman
Timestamp: [04:29 - 04:54]
Residents in the Los Angeles area are experiencing significant disruptions in cable, landline, and Internet services. Spectrum, a major cable provider, attributes the outages to criminal vandalism that began early yesterday morning. The company has yet to provide an estimated time for the restoration of full connectivity across Southern California. As of now, the cause and resolution of these widespread outages remain uncertain, leaving many residents and businesses grappling with communication challenges.
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