NPR News Now: July 28, 2025, 9 PM EDT Summary

Live from Washington, NPR brings you the latest updates on critical events shaping our world. This summary covers key topics discussed in the July 28, 2025, 9 PM edition of "NPR News Now."

1. Manhattan Shooting Incident

Host: Windsor Johnston

New York City Mayor Eric Adams reported multiple injuries from a shooting that occurred in Manhattan between Park and Lexington Avenues today. Responding to the crisis, Mayor Adams urged individuals inside the Blackstone Building to remain calm and stay put as police officers conducted a thorough search of the skyscraper. Footage captured law enforcement storming the building, while bystanders evacuated the area. The NYPD confirmed that the suspected shooter has been killed.

Notable Quote:

"We are doing everything we can to ensure the safety of those inside the building," — Mayor Eric Adams [00:11]

2. Trump Hosts British Prime Minister in Scotland

Reporter: Franco Ordonez

Former President Donald Trump welcomed the British Prime Minister to his golf club in Scotland today. The leaders engaged in discussions covering a range of global issues, including trade relations, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and tensions in Gaza.

A significant portion of their conversation addressed the war in Ukraine. Trump expressed disappointment with Russian President Vladimir Putin's actions, particularly following recent strikes that resulted in civilian casualties. He announced a reduction of the ceasefire deadline from 50 days to 10–12 days, warning that failure to comply would trigger substantial secondary tariffs on Moscow's trade partners.

Notable Quotes:

"There's no reason to wait if you know what the answer is going to be. Why wait?" — Unknown Speaker [01:26]

"Russia's economy would be so much better if it was not so focused on war and killing people." — President Donald Trump [01:30]

3. Extreme Weather Events Worldwide

Reporter: Jeff Brady

Severe weather conditions are wreaking havoc across multiple regions:

• China: A landslide in northern China has resulted in at least four deaths and left eight individuals missing. In Herbei Province, authorities have mandated that residents stay indoors, leading to the closure of schools and suspension of outdoor tourism activities. Forecasts predict up to 12 additional inches of rain, exacerbating the situation.

• Southeastern Europe: Greece and Turkey are battling wildfires intensified by extreme heat. Central Greece experienced temperatures soaring to 108°F, while Turkey has reported 17 deaths related to wildfires over the past month. Crews continue to struggle against the flames amidst challenging conditions.

• United States: The southeastern U.S. is enduring persistent extreme heat, with temperatures expected to climb into the low 100s early next week, impacting over 18 million people. Scientists attribute the increasing frequency of such intense heatwaves, along with droughts, hurricanes, and floods, to human-induced climate change.

Notable Quote:

"Scientists say human-caused climate change is making intense heat waves, droughts, hurricanes and floods more frequent." — Jeff Brady [02:16]

4. North Carolina Senate Race Announcement

Host: Windsor Johnston

Roy Cooper, the former Governor of North Carolina, has officially declared his candidacy for the state's Senate seat, challenging incumbent Republican Thom Tillis. This race is anticipated to be a focal point in the upcoming midterm elections, drawing significant attention from both parties. The National Republican Senate Committee has criticized Cooper, labeling him a "Democrat lapdog," signaling a highly contested and closely watched election.

Notable Quote:

"The National Republican Senate Committee blasted Cooper as a, quote, Democrat lapdog." — Windsor Johnston [02:43]

5. Stock Market Update

Host: Windsor Johnston

The stock market saw a downturn today, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average decreasing by 64 points. Investors are monitoring various economic indicators and global events that may influence market movements in the coming days.

Notable Quote:

"At the close on Wall Street, the Dow was down 64 points." — Windsor Johnston [02:43]

6. Grand Canyon Wildfire Under Control Efforts

Host: Windsor Johnston

Emergency teams are actively working to contain a rapidly spreading wildfire on the north rim of the Grand Canyon. The fire is fueled by unprecedented dryness and strong winds, with humidity levels plummeting to around 10% and wind speeds reaching 25 miles per hour. These conditions have led to explosive growth of the blaze in the heavily wooded areas of the national park.

Notable Quote:

"Officials say the blaze is being driven by record dryness and gusty winds." — Windsor Johnston [02:43]

7. Impact of Ultra-Processed Foods on Children

Reporter: Mikaleen Duclef

Recent scientific studies highlight how ultra-processed foods may affect children differently, particularly those with a strong food reward drive. These children tend to feel hungry more often, eat quickly, and do not easily feel full. Psychologist Kerry Botel from the University of California, San Diego, explains that while these children can control their eating when consuming whole foods, ultra-processed options lead to overeating and subsequent weight gain.

Notable Quotes:

"They want to eat all the time, that it doesn't matter if they're full. And those kids are going to gain weight in today's environment." — Kerry Botel [04:11]

Recommendations include:

• Keeping homes free of ultra-processed foods.
• Limiting availability to a few options.
• Reserving such foods for special occasions rather than daily consumption.

8. Plane Crash in Central California Investigated

Host: Windsor Johnston

The National Transportation Safety Board is probing the recent crash of a small aircraft in Central California, which resulted in three fatalities. The plane departed from San Carlos Airport on Saturday night and tragically crashed on the southwestern edge of Monterey Bay. Emergency response teams continue to manage the aftermath of the incident.

Notable Quote:

"The plane took off from San Carlos Airport on Saturday night and crashed on the southwestern edge of Monterey Bay." — Windsor Johnston [04:31]

Stay informed with NPR News Now for continuous updates on these and other important stories.