NPR News: June 30, 2025

Host: Dale Willman
Source: NPR News Now
Release Date: June 30, 2025

Sniper Ambush in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

Authorities in Idaho have lifted a lockdown order following a sniper attack near Coeur d’Alene. The incident occurred as firefighters were responding to a brush fire on Sunday afternoon. A body bearing a firearm was discovered at the scene, though it remains unclear if this individual was responsible for the attack.

Kootenai County Sheriff Robert Norris stated at [00:43]:

"We don't know how many suspects are up there and we don't know how many casualties that there are. Yeah, I suspect we'll have people coming forward that maybe are stuck up there that drove themselves to the hospital, but I suspect that would likely be the case."

At least two firefighters lost their lives in the ambush, with the number of injured yet to be confirmed. Authorities plan to provide more details during a news conference scheduled for later tonight.

Senator Thom Tillis Announces He Won’t Seek Reelection

Republican Senator Thom Tillis has declared that he will not seek reelection in the upcoming year, following pressure from former President Donald Trump. This announcement comes amidst Tillis's opposition to Trump's proposed megabill, which has caused friction within the Republican Party.

Colin Campbell of WUNC reports at [01:19]:

"North Carolina's senior senator said Saturday that he couldn't support the Senate version of the bill because it would jeopardize federal funding for health care and other needs in North Carolina. Tillis was one of two Republican senators to vote against moving the bill forward."

In response to Tillis's stance, Trump has indicated plans to support primary challengers for the senator's seat, emphasizing the intolerance for independent thinking within Congress. Tillis emphasized his commitment to making autonomous decisions during his remaining term, stating that independent thought is "becoming an endangered species in Congress."

President Trump to End Tariff Pause on July 9

President Donald Trump has announced that he will not extend his 90-day pause on tariffs imposed on most nations beyond the July 9 expiration date. Furthermore, Trump stated that he will not notify countries of the resumption of tariffs unless they agree to new trade deals with the United States.

At [01:51], Dale Willman reported:

"Trump says letters will be going out to affected countries before the deadline expires."

This move is expected to impact global trade dynamics, as the resumption of tariffs may lead to increased tensions and economic adjustments among affected nations.

Controversy Surrounds Pro-Palestinian Performances at Glastonbury

British police are currently reviewing the onstage remarks made by two pro-Palestinian rap groups during their performances at the Glastonbury Music Festival on Saturday. One of the groups, NCAP, faced scrutiny as a member was already under investigation for alleged support of Hamas and Hezbollah, organizations banned in the UK.

Vicki Barker in London reported at [02:25]:

"One member of the Belfast based trio NCAP was already facing terror related charges for allegedly expressing support for Hamas and Hezbollah, both of which are banned in the UK. So the BBC opted not to show their gig live."

The opening act, Bob Villain, a punk duo, led the audience in chants such as "Free, Free Palestine" and the more provocative "death, death to the IDF," referencing Israel's military forces. The Israeli Embassy condemned these remarks as "inflammatory and hateful rhetoric."

The BBC responded by placing an on-screen warning regarding discriminatory language and announced that Bob Villain's set would not be available on its iPlayer app.

Sean Combs’ Trial on Sex Trafficking and Racketeering Begins Deliberations

Jurors are set to begin deliberations Monday morning in the high-profile sex trafficking and racketeering trial of Sean Combs, also known as Puff Daddy, in New York City. Throughout the trial, jurors have heard testimonies from 3,024 witnesses, including two of Combs's former girlfriends who accused him of coercing them into drug-fueled sexual activities with paid male sex workers.

Combs has entered a plea of not guilty to all charges. The trial has garnered significant media attention due to the number of witnesses and the serious nature of the allegations against the music mogul.

Amateur Radio Operators Celebrate Field Day 2025

Every fourth weekend of June, over 31,000 amateur radio operators, known as Hams, participate in Field Day by setting up temporary transmitting stations in public venues. This event showcases the science, skill, and community service aspects of ham radio.

Neil Weber, president of the Kingsport Amateur Radio Club, shared at [04:06]:

"Field Day has been an annual event coordinated by the American Radio Relay League since 1933."

Chad Barrett from WETS added at [03:56]:

"For amateur radio operators across the country to practice field operations."

Field Day serves as a critical training exercise, particularly during emergencies when traditional communication networks fail. Following Hurricane Helene, ham radio operators played a vital role in relaying information to stranded communities.

Neil Weber emphasized at [04:19]:

"Operators were able to relay news to families that their loved ones were safe after the storm hit."

This year’s Field Day continues the tradition of demonstrating the resilience and importance of amateur radio in disaster response and community communication.

In Memoriam: D. Wayne Lucas, Hall of Fame Horse Trader

Hall of Fame horse trader D. Wayne Lucas passed away at the age of 89 on Saturday night. Lucas was renowned for his successful career, having won 15 Triple Crown races, including the Kentucky Derby four times. His family reported that he succumbed to a severe infection that caused significant damage to his heart and digestive system.

Dale Willman noted at [04:35]:

"Lucas won the Kentucky Derby four times. I'm Dale Willman, NPR News, in Washington."

Lucas's contributions to the horse racing industry made him a respected and beloved figure, and his legacy will be remembered by enthusiasts and colleagues alike.

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