George Pino, 55, has been found not guilty of vessel homicide and manslaughter charges over the death of 17-year-old Lucy Fernandez during a birthday boat party in Biscayne Bay, Florida

A dad who threw a birthday celebration for his daughter and 12 friends that ended in catastrophe on a boat has been found not guilty by a jury today.

On September 4, 2022, George and Cecilia Pino hosted an 18th birthday celebration for their daughter aboard their boat. The group included several teenage girls who were lifelong friends and classmates including Lucy Fernandez.

According to investigators, George Pino was operating the family’s 29-foot boat as it returned to the dock when it struck a channel marker near Boca Chita Key. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue said Pino told investigators that another vessel had passed by and created a large wake. He allegedly said he turned to check on the girls after the wake and, in doing so, collided with the marker.

The collision tore a gaping hole in the vessel’s hull, hurling those on board into the water.

Six passengers were rushed to hospital but tragically one of his daughter’s friends, 17 year old Lucy Fernandez, tragically died and another friend was left with permanent injuries. Fernandez was reportedly trapped beneath the boat and died from drowning-related injuries in hospital approximately 12 hours later.

George Pino, 55, has now been cleared of vessel homicide and manslaughter following the boat crash near Boca Chita Key.

For two weeks, jurors heard testimony from more than 20 witnesses, including Fernandez’s father, Andres, and Pino’s wife, Cecilia. The jury also watched footage showing Fernandez and her friends jumping around the 29-foot vessel and singing along to Billy Joel’s “Uptown Girl,” illustrating how rapidly the party marking Pino’s daughter’s 18th birthday turned disastrous, NBC 6 South Florida reported.

“In a case like this, there are no winners or losers”

Throughout the trial Pino pleaded not guilty and maintained his innocence. During closing arguments, Pino began to cry as his defense claimed that the crash was an accident.

Pino’s lead attorney, Howard Srebnick, released the following statement: “We are grateful to the jurors for their careful consideration of the evidence and for reaching a just verdict. From the beginning, we have maintained that the events of September 4, 2022, were a tragic accident, not a crime.

“The testimony presented at trial, including unrebutted accounts from eyewitnesses who saw no signs of impairment, confirmed that Mr. Pino was not under the influence, was not operating the vessel recklessly and that he did everything he could to protect his passengers after the accident.

“We continue to mourn the loss of Lucy Fernandez every day and to pray for all those who were affected by this maritime mishap. Our hearts remain with the families of those involved in the accident, and we hope that today’s verdict allows everyone to continue the long process of healing.”

Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez-Rundle released the following statement after the verdict: “In a case like this, there are no winners or losers. Mr. Pino must live with what he did, while the Fernandez and Puig families will grapple with the consequences of his actions. hese families and, to some extent, our community as a whole have been deeply impacted by this tragedy.

“While I and my prosecutors, Assistant State Attorney Laura Adams and Assistant State Attorney Jonathon Borst, may disagree with the verdict, jury’s decisions are the cornerstone of our justice system, and we accept their decision and appreciate their service.”

Firefighters and police were called to the scene in Sheriff Hutton Road, Strensall, shortly before 9.10am on Monday (June 22).

All occupants of the vehicles were out when the two crews arrived, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said.

A service spokesperson said the crews “disconnected the batteries of both vehicles and the incident was left with the police”.

The latest forecast for both areas shows temperatures rising sharply from tomorrow (Tuesday, June 23) with sunny intervals and highs of 30°C expected in Darlington.

The red-hot temperatures will continue as the week goes on, with Wednesday set to bring a day of full sun and highs of 29°C.

Temperatures will then rise again on Thursday (June 25) when another day of full sun brining scorching temperatures of 33°C to the town.

Friday is also expected to remain warm, with sunny intervals and highs of 26C, before temperatures ease slightly over the weekend.

When will it be hottest in Darlington and County Durham?

The hottest days of the week are currently forecast to be Tuesday and Thursday, when temperatures are set to reach 30C.

On Tuesday, temperatures are expected to build through the day, reaching 24°C by midday, 27°C by 2pm and 29°C by 4pm.

While some of us welcome the hot weather, it can cause some people to become unwell.
Follow @UKHSA advice to stay safe in the heat:
👉Drink lots of water
👉Apply sun cream generously!
👉Find shade where you can
👉Look out for vulnerable friends and neighbours
More tips for… pic.twitter.com/TPNjnFfrWs

— Met Office (@metoffice) June 22, 2026

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Thursday is also expected to be hot and sunny, with temperatures climbing from 20°C at 8am to 24°C by 10am.

By midday, the temperature is forecast to reach 28°C, before peaking at 31°C during the afternoon – but with the potential to reach 33°C.

Forecast for the week

The seven-day forecast is:

• Today: Cloudy, highs of 25°C and lows of 14°C
• Tuesday, June 23: Sunny intervals, highs of 30°C and lows of 17°C
• Wednesday, June 24: Sunny day, highs of 29°C and lows of 16°C
• Thursday, June 25: Sunny day, highs of 33°C and lows of 17°C
• Friday, June 26: Sunny intervals, highs of 26°C and lows of 17°C
• Saturday, June 27: Sunny intervals, highs of 25°C and lows of 15°C
• Sunday, June 28: Sunny intervals, highs of 23°C and lows of 13°C

Very high pollen forecast

People with hay fever may also want to take extra care, as the pollen level for County Durham and Darlington is listed as very high.

The forecast says grass pollen will be very high, while weed pollen is expected to be high.

UV levels are forecast to be moderate, with people advised to take care during the middle of the day and avoid spending too long in the sun without protection.

Heat health alert issued

An amber heat health alert has also been issued for the North West, North East, and Yorkshire and the Humber for the same period.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at UKHSA, said: “Very hot weather is forecast across large parts of England in the coming days and we are urging health and social care services across the country to ensure they are prepared.

“It is vitally important that people understand the risk posed by high temperatures like these, and take steps to keep themselves and their friends, families and neighbours safe.

“A red heat health alert indicates a risk to life for even the healthy population, but simple actions like staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keeping your home cool can make a big difference.

“It’s also important to look out for others, especially elderly relatives, neighbours, and those with underlying health conditions, to make sure they are aware of the forecast and following the necessary advice.”

As temperatures rise to the high 30s, the Met Office warns that the heat will impact health, infrastructure and property.

Red warnings are rare and only issued in exceptional circumstances. The last red warning for extreme heat was issued in July 2022.

This was also when the UK temperature record of 40.3C was set in Coningsby, Lincolnshire.

With forecasts suggesting we could see 40C on Wednesday or Thursday in parts of England, this record may be under threat.

UKHSA red heat health alerts, which also run through Wednesday and Thursday across the Midlands, eastern and southern England, indicate that severe impacts are expected across health and social care services, with an increased risk to life across the whole population.

Heat health alerts are intended to inform the health and social care sector and the responder community.

Amber heat health alerts have also been issued across Northern England for the same times.

Harry Kane stacks up against any other striker in the World Cup according to Declan Rice after the England skipper scored twice in their opener against Croatia

Declan Rice says Harry Kane is such a legendary figure in English football that he will tell his kids he played with him. England midfielder Rice clearly believes the Bayern Munich superstar stands up against any of the strikers at the World Cup.

And Rice admits that even he gets star struck at times by just how good Kane is while he also insisted England can go all the way this summer.

Rice said: “He’s one of those players that can tell the kids when they’re older that they got to play with Harry Kane. For me, that’s unbelievable.

“He’s one of them players that I’m very fortunate to have. One, he’s our captain. But two, how he leads by example every day and how he pushes in training.

“It’s not a surprise to me how good he is just because of the goals he scores in training and what he’s been doing at Bayern Munich and what he’s been doing in an England shirt. It’s been an honour to play with him.”

England made a winning start to their Group but Rice says they will face a tough test against Ghana – but will be determined to win and says they believe they can beat anyone.

Rice said: “We are just as motivated if not more motivated to win. Harry spoke about it earlier that we haven’t always had a great result in the second game so we have to get that right.

“If you look back on the second half, it was probably the best half of football we’ve played under Thomas.

“That performance was the benchmark now and if we keep playing like that then we will be a match for anyone and we should have confidence in our ability and believe we can beat anyone in this tournament.”

Rice also says he will face a difficult battle against former Arsenal team mate Thomas Partey who he will be up against in midfield.

Rice added: “I played against Thomas, so I played with Thomas Arsenal. A really good player, but also I’ve played against a lot of the Ghana team. And like I said from the clips, I know what they’re going to bring.

“They’re going to bring strength and pace. They want to catch us out on the counter attack. So yeah, we need to be ready for everything. But also, we have played against a lot of them. Players already know what’s going to be coming tomorrow.”

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A man has been charged after five men were injured in the alleged terror incident on Friday night, June 19.

The victims of a series of alleged knife attacks have been “deeply traumatised” by what happened to them, Scotland’s First Minister said. John Swinney spoke to some of those who were injured during incidents across Edinburgh on Friday evening.

Counter-terrorism officers were brought in to investigate what happened, with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer saying that the incidents appeared to be motivated by “anti-Muslim hatred”.

Mr Swinney sent his “deepest sympathy” to all those affected by Friday’s violence – which resulted in a 36-year-old white Scottish man being arrested and charged by police.

Lewis Hawkes was charged with five counts of attempted murder “aggravated by reason of having a terrorist connection”, as well as being charged with ne count of assault and robbery, two counts of breach of the peace and two counts of culpable and reckless conduct – all of which are also aggravated by reason of having a terrorist connection, the Crown Office said today.

Mr Swinney met some of those involved in the incidents, with the First Minister telling the Press Association: “I have spoken to some of the young men who were injured as a consequence of this act on Friday evening, they are not only physically injured but they are deeply traumatised by the attack. ”

He said he wanted to send a message of “solidarity and sympathy and empathy” to them and also to the wider Muslim community in Scotland. Mr Swinney said it was “just unbearable to talk to those young men who’ve been affected by this incident and injured by it”.

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But the First Minister stressed it was “important that I’m here to express the solidarity of the Scottish Government and the political leadership of Scotland with the community who will be traumatised”. He said that Friday’s “violent” incident could have “enormous consequences for cohesion within our community”.

In the wake of the incidents Mr Swinney stressed it was important to show “leadership about tolerance and inclusion within our communities”, saying that “those are the values that I espouse at all times”.

He added: “Nobody will ever hear from me anything that in any way undermines that message of cohesion within the community.

“That is what we must be about, about bringing people together, about understanding and respecting each other, that’s fundamentally what our dialogue has got to be about, and that’s what people will rely upon from me as First Minister.”

Recalling how he was brought up in a nearby part of the Scottish capital, Mr Swinney said: “I used to kick footballs around in this community. This was always a very welcoming, inclusive community, a community that was brought together, so it’s heartbreaking to experience what we’re experiencing now.”

But he said the incidents “reinforce the importance” of encouraging people from a young age to “understand and appreciate the strength that comes from diversity”. Mr Swinney added: “That’s what this community represents.”

Superintendent Neil Wilson, of Police Scotland, made clear that “there is no place for violence, hatred, or intimidation in our communities” in light of Friday’s incidents.

The police officer added that concerns might be “heightened” in the wake of the “horrific attacks”. He said: “It is important that all communities across Scotland feel supported, protected and able to go about their daily lives without fear of hatred or intimidation.”

Since Friday Police Scotland has spoken to more than 90 multi-faith organisations and community leaders in Edinburgh and across Scotland, with Mr Wilson adding that local policing officers have visited businesses affected by the incident.

He said: “We are carrying out a community impact assessment and will closely monitor the situation to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all communities, and we are prepared to respond promptly to any emerging issues.”

While Mr Wilson stressed there was “no wider threat”, he said the ongoing investigation led by Counter Terrorism Policing Scotland was continuing, with support from local policing officers in Edinburgh and other specialist national capabilities in Scotland.

He urged people to use a Major Incident Public Portal which has been set up to send any information they have to the force.

Mr Wilson said: “We would appeal to anyone with information that could assist with inquiries to upload it using the online form, including those with doorbell or dashcam footage.”

He continued: “I would urge everyone to continue to work together and ensure no person or group in Scotland feels marginalised or isolated. We are a police service for every community.”

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Shaun Burton, 60, died after two trains crashed in the Bedford area

A Cambridgeshire council has paid tribute to one of its former councillors who died in a train crash. Shaun Burton, 60, was named as the train driver who died in the Bedford train crash on Friday (June 19).

More than 100 other people were also injured in the crash, which involved two East Midlands trains heading towards London. Councillor Sarah Conboy, executive leader of Huntingdonshire District Council, has paid tribute to Mr Burton, a former HDC councillor.

Cllr Conboy said: “I was deeply saddened to hear of the tragic passing of Shaun Burton, a former Huntingdonshire District councillor, in the recent train crash. His loss is profoundly felt, both by his family and across the local community he served.

“During his time as an Independent Group councillor for The Stukeleys ward from 2018 to 2022, and through his work on the Corporate Governance Committee and Development Management Committee, Shaun made a valued and lasting contribution to Huntingdonshire. He was dedicated to his role and consistently sought to make a positive difference for those he represented.

“His commitment to public service and his passion for the community will long be remembered. At this very difficult time, my heartfelt thoughts and sincere condolences are with Shaun’s family, friends, and colleagues.”

Paul Bristow, mayor of Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, has also paid tribute to Mr Burton. Mayor Bristow said he was “devastated” to hear about the former councillor’s death.

He added: “The many tributes from those who have worked with Mr Burton over the years show he was clearly a well-loved colleague and member of our community.

“He was also known for giving back to his community, including serving as a Huntingdonshire district councillor and parish councillor for The Stukeleys. My thoughts are with Mr Burton’s family and friends and I wish a speedy recovery to those injured.

“I also pay tribute to the rail staff, emergency services and those in the community who responded to this serious incident. It is now important that the circumstances of this collision are fully investigated to prevent something like this happening again.”

Need to know

France’s World Cup clash with Iraq was suspended after lightening strikes in Philadelphia

Here’s everything you need to know about World Cup 2026 postponements and delays:

1. Historical tournament first: The Group I clash between France and Iraq in Philadelphia was the first match of the 2026 World Cup to be delayed by severe weather. Torrential rain and incoming thunderstorms severely impacted operations before safety protocols ultimately forced officials to intervene.
2. Suspended at half-time: The match kicked off as scheduled and successfully completed its opening 45 minutes despite a relentless downpour. However, the intensifying weather system and nearby electrical activity prompted officials to halt proceedings at halftime.
3. Mbappé secures the lead: Before the storm forced the players off the pitch, France established a 1-0 lead over Iraq. Star forward Kylian Mbappé scored the opening goal in the 14th minute, putting Didier Deschamps’ side ahead.
4. Mass stadium evacuation: Following the suspension order, stadium scoreboards flashed severe-weather warnings and instructed thousands of poncho-clad fans to immediately evacuate the open bowl. Spectators hurried out of their seats to seek emergency shelter in the stadium’s covered concourses and balconies.
5. Strict American protocols: The stoppage was triggered by strict lightning safety regulations in the United States, which FIFA must legally follow throughout the tournament. These rules mandate an immediate suspension of outdoor play if lightning activity is detected within an eight-mile radius of the venue.
6. The resetting timer: Under the active safety rules, the match was automatically placed under a mandatory 30-minute delay window. If any additional lightning strikes occur before that half-hour clock completely runs down, the countdown immediately resets back to zero.
7. Pre-Match disruption: Signs of severe weather were apparent earlier in the afternoon, when stadium organizers delayed opening the venue’s gates by 40 minutes due to incoming storms. Fans who were not already in the immediate vicinity were warned via social media to stay away from the complex.
8. Regional storm outbreak: The severe weather system affected multiple regions along the East Coast, putting numerous World Cup fixtures at heavy risk. Similar heavy downpours and dangerous storm conditions were reported in East Rutherford, New Jersey, ahead of the Norway vs. Senegal match.
9. Precedent for delays: The threat is a proven reality, as several matches during the previous summer’s Club World Cup in the US were heavily disrupted by lightning. Most notably, a match between Chelsea and Benfica in Charlotte lasted over four hours after repeated storm interruptions.

Get all the latest World Cup news HERE: World Cup LIVE: France vs Iraq suspended after lightning strike as restart time explained

With Pluto in Aquarius and Venus in Leo, there are two highly contrasting energies at play today. Keep things fluid and flexible.

Sagittarius, Scorpio and Libra, this cosmic blend sees you going and getting what you want. Remain in the present moment.

This is a complex and maybe challenging placement, but take your time and all willl be okay. Take a breath.

Ahead, you’ll find all star signs’ horoscopes for today: Tuesday June 23, 2026.

Like checking your horoscope every morning? You can now sign up to our free daily newsletter to get a personalised reading for your star sign delivered straight to your inbox.

To order your unique personal horoscope based on your time, date and place of birth, visit patrickarundell.com.

Aries

March 21 to April 20

The next few days see two very contrasting energies competing with one another. Positively, Venus in the sociable Leo, forges a solid link to Saturn in your sign, which can see you enjoy those reliable citizens in your world, but can also help you to appreciate them that much more. Yet those people you find very emotional or complex can prove more challenging.

Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aries

Taurus

April 21 to May 21

The planet of drive Mars has been supercharging your energies in the last five weeks and helping to keep a firmer grip on your life tiller. However, you may now experience a bit of uncertainty. It could be subtle, but you may find yourself starting to second-guess what people think, or what they really feel when you’re chatting to them. Instead, try to stay in the present.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Taurus

Gemini

May 22 to June 21

Past hard work can start to yield rewards in the next days. To really capitalise Gemini, you need to have a clear plan. As the Sun squares off with the dreamy Neptune, it’s not a time to be theoretical. The things you know have worked for you in the past, updated to your current circumstances, will give you the best chance of success. Stay clear-minded and your logical self.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Gemini

Cancer

June 22 to July 23

It’s been a theme for some while, and it can show up over the next two years. Is your job, work, or business aligned with your deeper purpose? If not, you could do some soul-searching this week. The reason is that another way forward could emerge, but it requires you to take the lead and be in touch with your true calling. Can you give up what you have though?

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Cancer

Leo

July 24 to August 23

With the Moon gliding through the most vibrant part of your chart, lots of thoughts can compete for your attention today. Yet as she moves forward, she squares up to Mercury. This can pique your curiosity but also make you a bit bored. This could lead to being distracted by gossip or something salacious someone shares with you. It’ll be best not to pass this on if they do.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Leo

Virgo

August 24 to September 23

With three powerful planets in the most social part of your situation, you could find yourself spoilt for choice when it comes to friendships or group involvements. However, the value of some of the people you are connecting with is something you may mull over. Don’t be too influenced by appearances. Your gift is to cut through to what counts, and that’s key today.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Virgo

Libra

September 24 to October 23

The Moon in your sign can make you more aware of what you need from situations. This is no bad thing for you who can be very mindful of others. With your professional prospects building really well, staying objective and detached about how people view you in a personal context is important. Even if someone isn’t saying it, they may still know your value, Libra.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Libra

Scorpio

October 24 to November 22

You’ve likely got a tremendous appetite to broaden your world and bring a more expansive vibe to bear. However, the Moon today could see you overthink all this or even find it more difficult to articulate exactly what you want. This complexity may also be amped up by the angle between your modern ruler, Pluto, and the Sun. One is reflective, the other adventurous.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Scorpio

Sagittarius

November 23 to December 21

A friendly Moon transit can prime the desire to share and interact. However, the planet of communication, is in the water sign of Cancer, in a deeper part of its journey for you, could make you feel unusually cut off or inhibited with the people you usually gel with. If you feel frustration well up, just know the big picture is a month ahead of transformation, and go with it.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Sagittarius

Capricorn

December 22 to January 21

You may find that your feelings are closer to the surface. This is no bad thing. If you feel bubbly, everyone will know. The to-and-fro with others, though, may not quite chime. With the Sun, Mercury, and Jupiter all in your sector of relating, you could be more conscious and hopeful of your connections. However, if they don’t quite go as usual, tomorrow is another day.

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Capricorn

Aquarius

January 22 to February 19

Duty can clash with your freedom-loving side. With Pluto in your sign powerfully transforming you as an individual, three potent players in your sector of obligations and responsibilities push you to clear up outstanding tasks and be more virtuous. You could resist this, and this Moon prompts you to think of faraway places or faces, so the humdrum can seem dull.

Head here for everything you need to know about being an Aquarius

Pisces

February 20 to March 20

Just because someone from your past comes to mind doesn’t mean rekindling the connection is best for you or even them. However, that doesn’t mean you won’t want to explore the possibility in your mind. Then again, it could be a person you are around now who is capturing your imagination. This could be a smouldering energy. Are you ready to share it openly?

Head here for everything you need to know about being a Pisces

Your daily Metro.co.uk horoscope is here every morning, seven days a week (yes, including weekends!). To check your forecast, head to our dedicated horoscopes page.

Head here for this week’s tarot horoscope reading, and see what the cards have in store for you!

Check out the tarot horoscope reading for the month of June here.

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ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — Lionel Messi set a World Cup record with his 17th and 18th goals, and defending champion Argentina advanced to the knockout stage with a 2-0 victory over Austria on Monday.

Messi had a golden opportunity to break the record in the ninth minute, but went wide to the right on a penalty kick. Almost 30 minutes later, Messi caught Alexander Schlager leaning the wrong way after Thiago Almada let Facuno Medina’s pass go by him directly onto Messi’s left foot.

“There were moments when I was really angry about missing the penalty, but I was able to make up for it,” Messi said.

In the waning seconds of injury time, Messi extended his record by sending a shot through several defenders after Schlager turned away his first attempt. He entered the game even with Germany striker Miroslav Klose, who scored 16 goals over four World Cups from 2002-14.

“Beyond anything I’m so happy for the win,” Messi said. “It was huge, tough and difficult. It would allow us to be relaxed to what’s ahead. All matches in this World Cup are very even, very intense. I’m enjoying this moment and craving to enjoy with my teammates.”

Two days before his 39th birthday and with an ailing father back home, Messi celebrated twice with teammates to the delight of the decidedly pro-Argentine crowd at the sold-out home of the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys.

Messi has scored all five of Argentina goals in the tournament and has 12 World Cup goals since turning 35. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner as soccer’s best player in Europe had his first World Cup hat trick in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria in its Group J opener last week in Kansas City.

Trailing by a goal early in second-half injury time, Austria winger Patrick Wimmer went just wide on a header after Kevin Danso had sent a header his direction off a free kick.

“I think that we were in possession of the ball more than other people expected,” Austria coach Ralf Rangnick said. “Unfortunately, we weren’t able to nullify every counter attack.”

Austria, which opened with a 3-1 victory over Jordan, can advance with a win over Algeria on Saturday in Kansas City.

Argentina returns to AT&T Stadium to face Jordan in a group finale Saturday night.

___

AP World Cup: https://apnews.com/fifa-world-cup