NPR News Now: August 9, 2025, 1AM EDT
Hosted by Dale Willman
Tragic Shooting at CDC Headquarters
Timestamp: [00:14]
In a devastating incident on Friday afternoon, a police officer lost his life after a gunman opened fire at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) building near Emory University in Atlanta. Georgia Public Broadcasting's Peter Biello provided initial reports on the situation.
Details of the Incident
Timestamp: [00:29]
Peter Biello reported that the suspect, identified as a white male, died on the second floor of the CVS pharmacy located across the street from the CDC. Authorities are still determining whether the suspect was killed by police or succumbed to a self-inflicted wound. While no other fatalities have been confirmed, several individuals were treated at a nearby hospital for stress and anxiety related to the ordeal.
First-Hand Account
Timestamp: [00:50]
Ross Davis of Atlanta, who was in traffic outside the CDC during the shooting, shared his harrowing experience:
"I never saw the shooter, but I was probably in somewhere in the neighborhood of two to three minutes sitting there. I probably heard 60 to 70 rounds."
Ongoing Investigation
Timestamp: [01:02]
Following the attack, a lockdown was implemented at the CDC but has since been lifted. Police continue to investigate the incident and urge the public to avoid the area to facilitate their efforts.
California's Redistricting Response to Texas GOP Moves
Timestamp: [01:13]
California Governor Gavin Newsom announced his commitment to presenting a congressional redistricting measure to California voters this fall. This move is a direct response to a Republican-led initiative in Texas aimed at redrawing district lines to secure five additional GOP seats.
Governor Newsom's Initiative
Timestamp: [01:30]
Laura Fitzgerald of CAP Radio detailed Newsom's strategy to counteract the Texas GOP's efforts. The plan involves calling for a special election allowing California voters to approve new congressional maps favorable to Democrats.
"We will nullify what happens in Texas. We will pick up five seats with the consent of the people. And that's the difference between the approach we're taking and the approach they're taking."
— Gavin Newsom [01:43]
Legislative Progress
Timestamp: [01:53]
Democratic leaders within the California state legislature have been diligently negotiating new district maps since the previous weekend. They anticipate making their proposal public in the coming week, aiming to enhance Democratic prospects in the state's congressional representation.
Injury Update on Detroit Lions' Maurice Norris
Timestamp: [02:04]
During a preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons on Friday night, Detroit Lions safety Maurice Norris sustained an injury following a tackle. The team reports that Norris is in stable condition, having regained feeling and movement in all his extremities.
Head Coach's Reaction
Timestamp: [02:22]
Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell addressed the incident, emphasizing the team's solidarity:
"Man, it's a violent game and we love it. And, you know, but when something like this happens, the silver lining is, man, the brotherhood. I mean, to see all those guys, you know, from that team, our team kind of come together and everybody's thinking about another player just means a lot, you know."
— Dan Campbell [02:22]
Following the injury, both teams remained on the field as the game concluded with 6:31 left to play.
Stock Market Sees Third Consecutive Weekly Gain
Timestamp: [02:44]
Wall Street experienced a positive day on Friday, marking the stock market's third winning week within the past month. Key indices saw notable increases:
- S&P 500: Rose by 0.78%, approaching the record set last week.
- Dow Jones Industrial Average: Increased by 0.47%.
- Nasdaq Composite: Gained 0.98%.
Azerbaijan and Armenia Forge Peace Agreement
Timestamp: [02:44]
In a significant development, Azerbaijan and Armenia have signed a peace agreement aimed at enhancing bilateral economic ties and progressing toward full normalization of relations after decades of conflict. The landmark deal was brokered by former President Donald Trump. Should the agreement hold, it represents a major diplomatic achievement that could challenge Moscow's influence in the region.
U.S. Visa Policy Tightens for Zimbabwe and Other African Nations
Timestamp: [03:55]
The U.S. State Department has announced a temporary halt on all routine visa applications from Zimbabwean nationals. This decision follows new regulations requiring visa applicants from two other African countries to post bond payments of up to $15,000. The measures are part of a broader effort to address visa overstays and misuse.
Details from Emmanuel Akinwatu
"The temporary pause will affect all visa applicants apart from diplomats in order to tackle visa overstay and misuse, and will remain in place while U.S. officials address concerns with Zimbabwe's government."
— Emmanuel Akinwatu [03:55]
These changes coincide with a recent crackdown on immigration, including travel bans on twelve countries—seven of which are African nations—and the introduction of bond requirements for visa applicants from Malawi and Zambia.
Largest Wildfire in France's Decades Burns Through Oude Wine Region
Timestamp: [04:28]
France is battling its most extensive wildfire in decades, scorching approximately 62 square miles in the Oude wine region. While authorities have declared the fire contained, there are ongoing concerns that high temperatures could reignite the blaze. Tragically, at least one person has lost their life, and hundreds have been evacuated from their homes to ensure safety.
This summary provides an overview of the key news topics covered in the August 9, 2025, episode of NPR News Now. For more detailed information, listeners are encouraged to tune into the full podcast.