NPR News Now – Episode Summary: July 26, 2025, 9 PM EDT
1. Multiple Stabbings at Traverse City Walmart
Timestamp: 00:20
Jeanine Herbst opens the episode with breaking news from Traverse City, Michigan, where a violent incident unfolded at a local Walmart. According to Grand Traverse County Sheriff Michael Shea, multiple individuals were stabbed in what authorities are describing as random acts of violence, with no predetermined victims.
- Sheriff Michael Shea: “Based on the information that we have at this time, it appears there were random acts that there was no the victims were not predetermined.” ([00:38])
Eleven victims are currently receiving treatment at a local hospital, with several undergoing surgery. One suspect has been taken into custody. Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer expressed her condolences on social media, emphasizing her support for the victims. As of now, there is no confirmed motive behind the attack.
2. Israel Resumes Aid Drops into Gaza Amid Ongoing Conflict
Timestamp: 00:51
The host transitions to the escalating conflict in Gaza, highlighting Israel’s decision to resume aid deliveries and establish humanitarian corridors for United Nations convoys. Despite these efforts, Gaza health officials report a tragic toll from recent Israeli airstrikes.
- Emily Fang, NPR News, Tel Aviv North: “Some of the dead had been shot Friday night while trying to get food near Zikim Crossing on Gaza's northern border with Israel... Israeli airstrikes killed more than two dozen more people over a 24-hour period.” ([01:22])
At least 57 individuals lost their lives in the past day alone, with more potentially trapped under rubble due to the inaccessibility of rescue teams. The conflict, ongoing since 2023, has resulted in nearly 60,000 Palestinian deaths, with aid organizations warning of increasing fatalities from what they describe as man-made starvation.
3. Texas Congressman Keith Self Faces Mixed Reactions at Town Hall
Timestamp: 02:05
Shifting to U.S. politics, Texas Congressman Keith Self garnered both praise and criticism during his recent town hall meeting. Representing a deeply conservative district north of Dallas, Self is a staunch supporter of President Trump and the recently enacted One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
- Representative Keith Self: “And I don't mind pushing back against the leadership because as I said, all of y' all have been promised this for so long. We've got to make it happen.” ([02:41])
Self advocated for the release of the Epstein files, asserting that delays by other leaders could potentially harm the president. This stance has polarized his constituents, reflecting the broader national debate surrounding transparency and accountability in high-profile investigations. The town hall, part of a series of local meetings nationwide, underscores the growing tension between elected officials and their voter bases.
4. Extreme Heat Drenches Central and Eastern United States
Timestamp: 02:57
Meteorological concerns take center stage as extreme heatwaves sweep across the central regions and the eastern seaboard of the United States. The National Weather Service has issued multiple heat warnings and advisories, forecasting temperatures soaring into the upper 90s to low 100s Fahrenheit, with heat indices reaching up to 115 degrees in certain areas this weekend.
This intense heat poses significant risks to public health, infrastructure, and daily activities, prompting authorities to advise residents to take necessary precautions to stay safe during the extreme weather conditions.
5. Peru Seizes Record Amount of Smuggled Mercury Linked to Illegal Gold Mining
Timestamp: 02:57
Environmental law enforcement efforts in Peru have achieved a significant victory with the seizure of a record 4 tons of smuggled mercury. This hazardous substance is notoriously used in illegal gold mining operations within the Amazon rainforest, causing severe ecological and health repercussions.
- Carrie Kahn, NPR News, Rio de Janeiro: “Working off an international intelligence tip say they found 4 tons of mercury hidden inside bags of gravel labeled as crushed stone... According to a new report by the Environmental Investigation Agency, at least 200 tons of mercury has been illegally smuggled to countries in the Amazon over the past six years.” ([03:34])
The mercury was concealed in gravel bags labeled as crushed stone on a cargo vessel en route to Bolivia, with Mexico identified as the primary source. The surge in gold prices has unfortunately driven up mercury demand, exacerbating environmental degradation as the chemical contaminates air, water, and soil, thereby endangering wildlife and human populations alike.
6. Fenway Park Concession Workers Strike Over Pay Disputes
Timestamp: 04:20
In sports-related labor news, concession workers at Boston's iconic Fenway Park have initiated a strike for the second consecutive day, protesting against inadequate pay and demanding better working conditions. The Aramac workers, committed to a five-day strike that began yesterday, aim to minimize disruptions to Red Sox games while urging patrons to refrain from purchasing snacks and treats during their absence.
- Union Statement: The workers are seeking living wages, the establishment of guardrails on technology use, and overall respect in their roles.
Aramac, the management body, expressed disappointment over the union's rejection of their latest offer, maintaining that they have been negotiating in good faith. The situation has attracted national attention, with Senator Bernie Sanders stepping in to encourage the Red Sox organization, which is not directly involved in the negotiations, to support the striking workers.
Conclusion
This episode of NPR News Now delivers a comprehensive overview of pressing local and international issues, from violent incidents and geopolitical conflicts to environmental crimes and labor disputes. Through clear reporting and compelling quotes from key figures, listeners are kept informed of events shaping the current landscape.