Associated Press

SpaceX giant rocket explodes minutes after launch from Texas
SpaceX’s giant new rocket blasted off on its first test flight Thursday but exploded minutes after rising from the launch pad and crashed into the Gulf of Mexico.

Southwest grounds flights nationwide due to technical issues
Federal officials halted Southwest Airlines flights from taking off on Tuesday.

Tyre Nichols remembered as beautiful soul with creative eye
On most weekends, Tyre Nichols would head to the city park, train his camera on the sky and wait for the sun to set.
“Photography helps me look at the world in a more creative way. It expresses me in ways I cannot write down for people,” he wrote on his website. He preferr...

Britney Griner Released From Russian Prison in US-Russia Swap
Russia freed WNBA star Brittney Griner on Thursday in a dramatic high-level prisoner exchange, with the U.S. releasing notorious Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout, American officials said.

Powerball prize soars to $1.2B after no winners found Monday
The lack of a winner means the next drawing Wednesday night will be for a massive $1.2 billion jackpot.

Jury Finds Kevin Spacey Not Liable for Battery in Misconduct Case Brought By ‘Rent’ Star Anthony Rapp
A jury concluded Tuesday that Kevin Spacey did not molest actor Anthony Rapp when Rapp was 14, while both were relatively unknown actors in Broadway plays in the 1980s.

The Start of Wednesday’s Phillies, Braves Game Delayed By Rain
The start of Wednesday's Game 2 of the NL Division Series between the Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta Braves has been delayed by rain.

Philadelphia Phillies Extend Manager Rob Thompson’s Contract Through 2024
The Phillies announced they have signed Thomson to a two-year contract to remain as their manager through 2024, rewarding him for a turnaround that earned Philadelphia a wild-card berth.

Doctors ‘Concerned for the Queen’s Health,’ Palace says
Buckingham Palace says Queen Elizabeth II is under medical supervision as doctors are “concerned for Her Majesty’s health.”

US clears updated COVID boosters targeting newest variants
The U.S. on Wednesday authorized its first update to COVID-19 vaccines, booster doses that target today’s most common omicron strain. Shots could begin within days.