NPR News Now: December 21, 2024, 9 PM EST Summary
Released on December 22, 2024
Tragic Attack at Magdeburg Christmas Market
In a heartbreaking incident at a Christmas market in Magdeburg, eastern Germany, a man intentionally drove his BMW into the crowd, resulting in the deaths of at least five people and injuring more than forty others. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz addressed the nation from the scene, emphasizing the importance of unity in the face of tragedy. Chancellor Scholz stated, “It is not hatred that determines our togetherness, but that we are a community which wants to win the future” [00:37]. Authorities quickly identified and arrested the suspect, a 50-year-old Saudi psychiatrist with residency in Germany. Reports indicate that the attacker, formerly a Muslim, was critical of German authorities, accusing them of failing to combat Islamism in Europe [00:37].
Madison Students Protest Gun Laws After School Shooting
In the wake of a devastating school shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison, Wisconsin, students staged a walkout from their classrooms to protest existing gun laws. The demonstration, which took place on the snowy streets leading to the state Capitol, featured speeches urging lawmakers to address gun violence and mental health issues. Among the protesters was Abby Johns, a sophomore whose father, Jason Johns, shared the profound impact of the tragedy on their family. He expressed, “It's been tough seeing your 15-year-old daughter so innocent be affected by something like this” [01:35]. The Johns family is currently focusing on healing while considering whether Abby will return to the school [01:35].
Holiday Travel May Face Winter Weather Challenges
As the busy holiday travel season kicks off, millions are preparing to hit the roads and skies. However, winter weather could disrupt some travel plans. NPR's Eva Pukach reported that while the northeastern U.S. experienced several inches of snowfall over the weekend, meteorologist Frick Pereira from the National Weather Service does not anticipate widespread inclement weather for the holiday week. Pereira noted, “There will be some localized areas where travel may be a little bit more difficult” [02:44]. Specifically, the Pacific Northwest may see mountain snow and lower elevation rain, potentially slowing travel in that region [02:44]. Meanwhile, the East Coast, currently facing some of the coldest temperatures of the season, can expect temperatures to gradually rise as Christmas approaches [02:59].
Baseball Legend Rickey Henderson Passes Away
The baseball world mourns the loss of Rickey Henderson, the all-time leader in stolen bases in Major League Baseball (MLB) history. Henderson, a World Series champion and an Oakland Athletics legend, died at the age of 65. He was renowned for his exceptional speed and power, contributing significantly during his 14 seasons with the A's over a 25-year career [03:34]. His wife, Pamela Henderson, confirmed his passing in a statement released by the Athletics [03:34]. Billy Beane, the former Oakland Athletics general manager, lauded Henderson as “the greatest Oakland A of all time” and praised his immeasurable impact on the team, the city of Oakland, and the sport of baseball [03:34]. Henderson also held records for most leadoff home runs and most runs scored, highlighting his enduring legacy in the sport [03:34].
FDA Approves Zepbound for Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatment
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the weight loss drug Zepbound for treating obstructive sleep apnea in adults with obesity and moderate to severe cases. Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition where the upper airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing breathing difficulties. The FDA recommends that Zepbound be used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity [04:14]. This approval follows the March approval of Wegovy, another weight loss medication from Novo Nordisk, which is used to reduce the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular issues in overweight patients [04:14].
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