Today's News Brief Headline Stories Saturday January 18th

 Local News:

Queens A-Train Service Suspension

Today marks the start of a 5-mile suspension of A-train service in the Rockaways, Queens, for crucial repair work. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) expects the service to resume in May 2025, just in time for the beach season.

Queens Tenant Charged with Superintendent's Murder

Sandra Coto-Navarro, 48, faces second-degree murder charges for allegedly killing her superintendent, Jose Portillo, 55, when he came to collect overdue rent. Portillo's body was found in garbage bags under a bed in her apartment. If found guilty, she could face 25 years to life in prison.

Carbon Monoxide Scare in Maspeth

A carbon monoxide leak in a home in Maspeth, Queens, sent nine people to the hospital. Authorities are looking into what caused the high levels of CO.

Truck Overturns on BQE

An overturned truck on the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway has shut down all eastbound lanes at Roosevelt Avenue, leading to major traffic delays.

Elmhurst Apartment Fire

In Elmhurst, Queens, a fire in an apartment injured two people, though their injuries were minor. The cause of the fire is still being investigated.

Queens Councilwoman Opposes Trump's Military Deportation Plan

Queens Councilwoman Tiffany Caban has written a resolution against President-elect Donald Trump's plan to use the military for deporting people. She calls the plan both inhumane and bad for the economy, but it has received little support from other council members.

Study Reveals Prime Advertising Spots on Queens Highways: Billboards Thrive Amid Heavy Traffic

A recent study found that the Long Island Expressway and I-678 in Queens are top spots for billboard advertising. Heavy traffic there means ads get more exposure for longer periods.

Weather:

Upcoming Winter Storm

A winter storm is expected to hit New York and New Jersey this weekend, with snow likely starting around 10 a.m. on Sunday. Some areas in New York may see snow accumulations of two to eight inches. Residents should prepare for possible disruptions.

National News:

President-elect Trump Appoints New Secret Service Head

President-elect Donald Trump has appointed Sean Curran, a Secret Service agent who supported him during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, as the new head of the agency. Curran is being recognized as a "great patriot," and his appointment has received favorable reactions online.

Sports:

Kentucky Wildcats Face Alabama Crimson Tide

The Kentucky Wildcats are set to compete against the Alabama Crimson Tide today. Alabama holds the top offense and has recently dominated the SEC, winning two of the last three championships. This game promises to be thrilling.

New York Giants Prepare for 2025 NFL Season

The New York Giants are preparing for the 2025 NFL season with important updates. The team is engaged in mock drafts, considering prospects like Travis Hunter, Cam Ward, and Shedeur Sanders. Veteran Michael Strahan has also been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame, honoring his successful career.

International News:

UK Confirms Bird Flu Outbreaks

The UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has confirmed bird flu outbreaks at two poultry farms in East Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. The affected birds will be humanely culled to stop the disease from spreading.

Digital Driving Licenses to be Introduced in the UK

Digital driving licenses will be launched across the UK later this year. These licenses will be available through a new government app, which can also be used as identification for various activities such as buying alcohol, voting, and boarding domestic flights.

International Sports:

EPL Gameweek 22 Highlights

During Gameweek 22 of the English Premier League, Newcastle will put its nine-game winning streak on the line against Bournemouth, while Liverpool, strengthened by Darwin Núñez's return, faces Brentford. Arsenal, dealing with key injuries, will play against Aston Villa, who recently signed Donyell Malen.