Autopsy Report Reveals Dwayne Haskins Was Drunk and Under the Influence When Fatally Struck

Autopsy Report Reveals Dwayne Haskins Was Drunk and Under the Influence When Fatally Struck

The former Steelers quarterback had a blood alcohol content of 0.20 and had taken ketamine before his tragic accident in Florida.

A recent autopsy report has revealed that Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Dwayne Haskins was legally intoxicated and had consumed drugs before being fatally struck by a dump truck on a Florida highway last month. The Broward County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed that Haskins’ blood alcohol level was 0.20, which is more than two and a half times the legal driving limit in Florida.

The tragic incident occurred just before dawn on April 9, near Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on Interstate 595. Investigators have determined that Haskins, 24, had consumed at least 10 alcoholic drinks in the hours leading up to his death, based on his weight of 230 pounds (104 kilograms). In addition to alcohol, ketamine, a potent painkiller sometimes abused recreationally, was also found in his system. However, the report does not specify how Haskins had acquired the drug.

The investigation revealed that Haskins’ car had run out of fuel near the scene. Witnesses reported seeing him in the middle lane of the highway, trying to flag down passing cars before he was struck by a dump truck and then an SUV. Haskins died from blunt force trauma, and the incident has been ruled as an accident. No charges have been filed in connection with the incident.

According to the Steelers, Haskins had no history of mental health problems or suicidal tendencies. They acknowledged that he occasionally drank heavily and used marijuana, but there was no indication that he had been using any other illicit drugs.

Haskins had been training in South Florida with his Steelers teammates when the incident occurred. He had dined with teammates before visiting a club in Miami, where he reportedly had an argument with a companion before separating. In the hours before his death, Haskins spoke with his wife, Kalabrya, informing her that he had run out of gas. She later expressed concern when she couldn’t reach him after their conversation. The dispatcher who answered her 911 call told her to remain on standby for further updates.

Haskins had an impressive college career at Ohio State in 2018, setting numerous passing records and winning MVP in both the Big Ten Championship and the Rose Bowl. He was selected by Washington in the first round of the 2019 NFL draft but was released after two seasons. Haskins was later signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers as a developmental quarterback, though he did not play in any games last season.

Stuart Pearce Steps Down from West Ham Coaching Role After Two-Year Collaboration with David Moyes

Stuart Pearce Steps Down from West Ham Coaching Role After Two-Year Collaboration with David Moyes

Pearce bids farewell to West Ham following a successful second stint as assistant coach under Moyes.

Stuart Pearce has announced he is leaving his coaching role at West Ham, bringing an end to his second spell working with manager David Moyes. The former Hammers player first served as Moyes’ assistant during the 2017/18 season, before rejoining the coaching team in August 2020.

Over the past two years, Pearce has been part of a successful West Ham team that secured consecutive top-seven finishes in the Premier League. Additionally, the club made an impressive run to the Europa League semi-finals, only to be eliminated by eventual champions Eintracht Frankfurt.

In his statement, Pearce expressed a mixture of pride and sadness in making the decision to leave the club: “It has been a pleasure and a privilege to work at West Ham United over the past two years. However, I believe now is the right time for me to step away and explore new opportunities.”

He thanked David Moyes, the club’s owners David Sullivan, David Gold, and Karren Brady for the opportunity to return and be part of the team. “I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here,” Pearce remarked. “The club’s unity at all levels has been inspiring, and the environment at Rush Green will be something I miss dearly.” Pearce also extended his best wishes for the future to everyone at the club, stating that West Ham would always have a special place in his heart.

Moyes paid tribute to Pearce’s contributions, noting his invaluable perspective from the stands during matches, which helped provide fresh insights for the coaching team. “We thank Stuart for his hard work and dedication,” Moyes said. “He has been an integral part of the team, and his absence will be felt at the training ground. I wish him all the best in his future endeavours.”

Search Efforts Intensify for Texas Inmate After Bus Escape and Stabbing

Search Efforts Intensify for Texas Inmate After Bus Escape and Stabbing

Authorities expand the search for convicted murderer Gonzalo Lopez as ground and air operations conclude.

The search for Gonzalo Lopez, a convicted murderer who escaped from a prison transport bus and stabbed the driver last week, has entered a new phase, Texas authorities announced on Friday. The search, which previously involved extensive ground and air operations in Leon County, Texas, has now shifted to a more strategic focus outside the original secured perimeter.

Lopez, 46, managed to escape while being transported for a medical appointment on May 12 in a rural area between Dallas and Houston. According to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, Lopez freed himself from his restraints, cut through the cage’s metal mesh, and crawled to freedom. He then attacked the bus driver, prompting an altercation in which both Lopez and the driver exited the bus.

A second officer at the rear of the vehicle attempted to intervene, but Lopez re-entered the bus and fled, driving down the road until officers shot out the rear tire. The bus soon veered off the road, and Lopez fled into nearby woods. Despite the officers’ efforts to stop him, Lopez remains at large.

The Texas Department of Criminal Justice has stated that the search for Lopez is now expanding. While some personnel will remain in Leon County, more strategic searches will be conducted in areas beyond the initial search perimeter. Cris Love, Inspector General, warned that anyone caught assisting Lopez would face criminal prosecution and be putting their own safety at risk.

Lopez was sentenced to life in prison after being convicted in 2006 for the murder of a man near the Texas-Mexico border. During the escape, he stabbed the driver, though the injuries were not life-threatening.

Authorities are offering a $50,000 reward for any information that leads to Lopez’s capture.

Truss Pushes for Moldova’s Defence to Match NATO Standards Amid Russian Threat

Truss Pushes for Moldova’s Defence to Match NATO Standards Amid Russian Threat

The UK Foreign Secretary outlines plans to bolster Moldova’s defences, alongside Ukraine, to counter Russia’s expansionist ambitions.

UK Foreign Secretary Liz Truss has called for Moldova to be “equipped to NATO standard” as part of efforts to protect the country from potential Russian aggression. In an interview with The Telegraph, Truss emphasised that discussions are ongoing with allies about supporting Moldova’s defences, particularly in light of Vladimir Putin’s clear ambitions to expand Russian influence.

Moldova, a non-NATO member, faces increasing security threats from Russia, especially as the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate. Truss explained that the UK’s priority is to ensure Ukraine’s long-term ability to defend itself, which she believes should extend to neighbouring countries like Moldova, which remain vulnerable to Russian expansionism.

The Foreign Secretary noted that the UK, along with its partners, is working on a joint commission with Ukraine and Poland to enhance Ukraine’s defences to NATO standards. Truss elaborated: “Our focus is on upgrading Ukrainian defences to NATO standards, understanding what the Ukrainians need, and how to maintain that capability long-term.”

In response to questions on whether Western weapons and intelligence should be provided to Moldova, Truss firmly stated: “I want to see Moldova equipped to NATO standard. This is an ongoing discussion we are having with our allies.” She made it clear that the growing security threat from Russia necessitates such support, stressing that Putin’s ambitions to expand Russia’s influence have not been abandoned, despite setbacks in Kyiv.

Sources suggest that NATO standards would include supplying modern equipment to replace outdated Soviet-era gear and providing necessary training to Moldovan forces.

This call for stronger defences for Moldova comes as Prime Minister Boris Johnson also discussed the ongoing crisis in Ukraine with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, emphasising the importance of expanding NATO with the inclusion of Sweden and Finland.

Heartstopper Fans Overjoyed as Netflix Orders Two More Seasons: ‘Another Win for the Gays’

Heartstopper Fans Overjoyed as Netflix Orders Two More Seasons: ‘Another Win for the Gays’

Teen drama series, loved for its heartwarming LGBTQ+ representation, will continue with two additional seasons.

Netflix has delighted fans of Heartstopper by announcing the renewal of the popular teen drama for two more seasons. The show, based on Alice Oseman’s graphic novels, first premiered on the streaming platform in April and quickly became a fan favourite.

Heartstopper follows the blossoming relationship between Charlie, a shy and introverted student (played by Joe Locke), and Nick, a popular rugby player (Kit Connor), as they navigate friendship and romantic feelings. Praised for its refreshing portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters without focusing on trauma, the series has struck a chord worldwide, with audiences celebrating its positive representation of young queer love.

On May 20th, Netflix shared the exciting news on social media, confirming that Heartstopper will return for not one, but two additional seasons. The announcement was met with overwhelming excitement from the cast and fans alike. Locke, who plays Charlie, reacted to the news by sharing memes and expressing his joy, writing that he was “crying” over the renewal.

Yasmin Finney, who portrays Elle in the series and has also been cast in Doctor Who, couldn’t contain her excitement, tweeting “AHHHHHHHHHHHHHH YALL I-” in celebration. Fans flooded social media with their own reactions, with one viewer writing, “Nobody touch me, I’m crying,” while another expressed, “OMG, you just made me the happiest man on earth.”

For many, the announcement was “another win for the gays,” as the series continues to offer uplifting, inclusive content for young LGBTQ+ audiences.

Kate Brightens Buckingham Palace Garden Party with Warm Interactions

Kate Brightens Buckingham Palace Garden Party with Warm Interactions

The Duchess of Cambridge, along with other royals, greeted thousands of guests at the sun-filled event.

The Duchess of Cambridge brought warmth and cheer to Buckingham Palace as she attended the second official garden party of the year. The event, held under a sunny sky, saw over 8,000 guests enjoying the delightful atmosphere. Among those in attendance were the Earl and Countess of Wessex and Princess Alexandra.

Kate, dressed in a vibrant pink ensemble, was seen shaking hands and engaging with guests, including charity representatives. Her friendly nature was particularly evident when she spent time chatting with two enthusiastic attendees from the inclusive theatre group Act Up! Newham, Awa Jagne and Sterre Ploeger. The Duchess praised their outfits, telling them both, “you look beautiful.” Awa Jagne later shared that meeting Kate was one of the best moments of her life.

The Duchess also engaged with representatives from the Foundling Museum, the first children’s charity and arts organisation in the UK. Caro Howell, the museum’s director, recalled a prior encounter with Kate during a royal patron visit and praised her for her remarkable memory and genuine care.

Meanwhile, the Earl of Wessex interacted with representatives from the Northern Ballet and the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, while the Countess of Wessex spoke to attendees from the London College of Fashion, Women in Business, and Meningitis Now.

The event was accompanied by a military band playing the national anthem and a selection of music. Buckingham Palace will host another garden party on May 25, with another scheduled at the Palace of Holyroodhouse in Edinburgh on June 29.

First Case of Monkeypox in the US This Year Confirmed in Massachusetts

First Case of Monkeypox in the US This Year Confirmed in Massachusetts

Health officials investigate potential link to recent outbreaks in Europe as man is hospitalised.

A man in Massachusetts has been diagnosed with monkeypox after recently travelling to Canada, marking the first reported case of the disease in the United States this year. Health officials are currently investigating whether this case is connected to the small outbreaks seen in Europe, particularly in the United Kingdom, Portugal, and Spain.

Monkeypox, a rare viral illness, is typically confined to Africa, with sporadic cases in other regions usually linked to travel. This U.S. case has prompted collaboration between U.S. health authorities, their counterparts in the U.K., and Canadian officials. Despite the investigation, authorities have assured the public that there is no risk from this particular case. The patient, who is hospitalised in stable condition, is receiving care but is not in critical danger.

This is the first instance of monkeypox reported in the U.S. this year, with the last cases seen in 2021 in Texas and Maryland, both involving travellers returning from Nigeria. Monkeypox begins with flu-like symptoms and swollen lymph nodes, followed by a distinctive rash on the face and body. While the virus typically spreads in Africa through bites from rodents or small animals, the current European outbreaks have mostly affected gay and bisexual men, with some infections believed to have been transmitted through close contact during sexual activity.

Although monkeypox is related to smallpox, it is less contagious. The World Health Organization states that most people recover within weeks, though it can be fatal in up to 10% of cases.

Chinese Vase Found in Kitchen Sells for £1.5 Million at Auction

Chinese Vase Found in Kitchen Sells for £1.5 Million at Auction

A rare 18th-century piece, originally bought for a few hundred pounds, sparks fierce bidding war.

An extraordinarily rare Chinese vase from the 18th century, once bought by an English surgeon for only a few hundred pounds in the 1980s, has been sold for nearly £1.5 million at auction. The 60cm tall vase, which features blue-glazed decoration with silver and gilt, is adorned with symbols of cranes and bats and was originally crafted for the court of the Qianlong Emperor.

The piece, created in the 1700s, had been passed down to the surgeon’s son, who placed it in his kitchen, unaware of its true worth. It wasn’t until an antiques specialist visited the home that the vase’s significant value was recognised. Dreweatts Auctioneers, based in Berkshire, had initially estimated the vase’s value at around £100,000-£150,000, but the piece fetched an impressive £1.2 million at auction, with the buyer’s premium bringing the total closer to £1.5 million.

The vase was sold to an international buyer over the phone, following intense bidding from across China, Hong Kong, the US, and the UK.

Mark Newstead from Dreweatts expressed excitement over the result, stating, “This outstanding outcome reflects the immense global interest the piece generated, with particularly competitive bidding.” The vase was hailed as a masterpiece of craftsmanship from the Qianlong era, showcasing intricate enamelling techniques that were designed to appeal to the emperor’s refined taste for exotic designs. To achieve the various colours, the vase required at least three kiln firings, including a high-temperature firing at over 1200℃ for the iconic cobalt blue.

The cobalt blue glaze, often referred to as “sacrificial blue,” is associated with ritual vessels used in sacrifices at the Imperial Altar of Heaven. The auction house noted that it is rare to see vases featuring both gilding and silver, especially in combination with this particular glaze, as the medium is notoriously difficult to manage. Furthermore, no other known porcelain piece decorated with the same imagery in gold and silver has been documented.

The vase also bears a six-character mark on its base, a distinctive feature of the Qianlong period (1736-1795), further confirming its historical authenticity.

Cuba’s New Penal Code Tightens Control on Dissent, Warn Rights Groups

Cuba’s New Penal Code Tightens Control on Dissent, Warn Rights Groups

Human rights organisations argue that the revised law strengthens state power and further suppresses opposition.

Cuba’s newly approved penal code has sparked concerns from human rights organisations, with critics arguing that the legislation further curtails freedom of expression and political dissent. While officials claim the updated laws are intended to modernise Cuba’s legal framework, the amendments are viewed by many as a way to intensify the control over opposition voices.

The law, passed by Cuba’s parliament on Sunday, imposes strict regulations on unauthorized communications with foreign individuals and entities, as well as prohibiting foreign funding. It introduces harsher penalties, including prison terms of up to 30 years and, in extreme cases, the death penalty for individuals who share information with international organisations or unauthorised foreign entities.

Supreme Court President Rubén Remigio Ferro hailed the law as “modern” and “inclusive,” stating on state television that the code prioritises “prevention and education before repression” while ensuring “sufficient rigor” in punishing crimes that threaten “social peace and national stability.” The law will come into effect once it is reviewed by a drafting commission and published in the official gazette.

Despite claims of reform, critics argue the law reinforces Cuba’s longstanding approach to silencing dissent. The country’s history of repressing opposition is evident, as seen in the aftermath of the July 2021 protests, during which hundreds of individuals were arrested, and some were sentenced to long prison terms on charges such as sedition. Independent journalists in Cuba have also faced persecution, often leading to their imprisonment or forced exile.

The new law eliminates the vague charge of “precriminal dangerousness,” which has historically been used to target dissidents, but it introduces new categories of offences. For instance, those who insult or attack public officials, or civilians fulfilling their “citizens’ duty,” face imprisonment for up to five years. A similar penalty applies to individuals who incite opposition to Cuba’s socialist order, with a heavier sentence of up to 10 years for those who use mass media to do so.

One of the most controversial provisions is the ban on any form of unauthorized funding from international or domestic sources that is linked to criminal activity. While this does not apply to remittances from Cubans living abroad, it has been seen as an additional tool for the government to monitor and control foreign financial influence.

Ana Cristina Núñez, senior researcher for the Committee to Protect Journalists, condemned the law as an “intricate and perverse legal regime of censorship,” highlighting its devastating impact on independent media. The code also reinforces penalties for corruption, speculation, and hoarding, and adds harsher punishments for crimes involving gender violence or harm to minors and people with disabilities.

Despite some criticism, the law retains the death penalty for 23 crimes, a provision that has not been used since 2003. The age of criminal responsibility remains at 16.

Saily González, an activist who monitored the 2021 protests, expressed concern that the new code offers the government an even more direct means of suppressing civil society and political opposition. Some lawmakers rejected a proposal by Mariela Castro, the daughter of former President Raúl Castro, to explicitly criminalise femicide, arguing that the enhanced penalties for gender violence were sufficient.

Ukraine Will Survive and Triumph, Claims UK Military Chief Amidst Ongoing War with Russia

Ukraine Will Survive and Triumph, Claims UK Military Chief Amidst Ongoing War with Russia

Admiral Radakin asserts Ukraine is winning the war against Russia, despite continued civilian casualties from shelling.

The United Kingdom’s most senior military officer, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, has stated that Ukraine is winning its war against Russia and will ultimately “survive” as a nation. Speaking at the Sir John Slessor Memorial Lecture in Parliament, the Chief of the Defence Staff explained that Russia’s forces, initially hoping for a swift victory, have instead found themselves entrenched in a prolonged conflict of attrition.

Radakin emphasised that Putin’s forces had underestimated Ukraine’s resolve, stating: “It’s clear Ukraine is winning, and Putin is losing.” He also pointed out that Russia believed it could capture Ukraine’s cities within days, yet the resistance shown by the Ukrainian people has thwarted these expectations. “On the Ukrainian side, we’ve seen incredible national effort, matched by bravery on the ground and in the air,” he remarked.

Recent Ukrainian military advances have seen Russian forces pushed back, particularly around Kharkiv, with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky celebrating the regaining of territory up to the Russian border. However, the war continues to bring devastating consequences for civilians, with shelling in Donetsk and Luhansk regions resulting in more casualties, including a child. In the eastern city of Sievierdonetsk, at least 10 people were killed by Russian bombardment.

The situation in Mariupol also remains dire, as the Ukrainian defenders at the Azovstal steelworks are reportedly preparing to fulfil orders to protect their remaining troops, signalling the possible end of the prolonged siege. The Ukrainian forces, holed up beneath the steel plant, have been holding out against overwhelming odds, with many wounded soldiers still holding their ground.

As Russian forces continue to press their attacks, the humanitarian crisis deepens. Ukraine estimates tens of thousands of civilians have perished in Mariupol alone, where much of the city has been destroyed. Russian officials have confirmed that they are evacuating wounded Ukrainian soldiers from the Azovstal plant to a medical facility in Novoazovsk, though the situation remains critical.

On the diplomatic front, the European Union has struggled to impose a full embargo on Russian oil, with countries such as Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic opposing a ban due to their reliance on Russian supplies. EU foreign ministers were unable to reach an agreement, with Josep Borrell, the EU’s chief diplomat, citing the technical complexity of the issue. However, a political agreement was reached on a fourth tranche of financial aid to help Ukraine acquire weapons, bringing the total funding for arms and nonlethal assistance to €2 billion.

Meanwhile, tensions between Turkey and the pro-Ukrainian NATO members are escalating. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared that Sweden and Finland should not bother attempting to convince Turkey to approve their NATO membership applications, citing alleged links between these countries and terrorist organisations, including the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK).