More than 25 rescue vessels were dispatched to the ‘level two mass casualty incident’

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A devastating boat explosion at a popular tourist destination has left 11 people requiring urgent hospital treatment, with one witness describing how the blast hurled several individuals into the sea before flames consumed the charter vessel.

US authorities have subsequently declared a level two mass casualty incident, after emergency services deployed more than two dozen rescue units to waters off Miami’s coast to assist those wounded in the boat explosion.

The charter vessel was operating in the waters of Biscayne Bay, close to the Sunshine State’s renowned Haulover Sandbar, when the explosion took place.

According to the Miami Herald, which had accessed audio recordings of the dispatch communications between base and emergency responders at the location, there was considerable confusion when rescue teams arrived.

The dispatcher attempted to establish how many casualties there were, with the firefighter responding: “They keep coming…. we just aren’t sure right now”, reports the Mirror.

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The audio confirmed that numerous individuals sustained burns. Several were propelled into the water by the explosion and were retrieved by fire-crew lifeboats.

The casualties were subsequently rushed to nearby fuel docks for transfer to local emergency trauma facilities, with some airlifted to hospital. Several were transported to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Centre and Burn Centre, the publication reported.

The Miami Herald identified the vessel as a Press Cruiser 400 Express, a 40-foot cabin cruiser named Nauti Nabors, from Texas. South Florida boat captain Patrick Lee watched the horrifying incident unfold before him. He was transporting passengers aboard his tiki boat to a larger vessel moored in waters near the Haulover Sandbar, when a nearby explosion erupted.

“We saw three people fly out of the boat,” he said.

Lee described how the boat was engulfed in flames within minutes, noting that a number of casualties were carried away on stretchers by paramedics.

“I just saw a lot of them with burns all over them, and I said that it’s a hot fire,” Lee said. “It is quick, but it’s high octane gasoline, and so a lot of them got burnt, and it was an explosion.”

The veteran boat captain, with over 50 years of experience, suggested to local media that the blast was most likely triggered by exhaust fans that had not been switched on, allowing fuel fumes to become trapped on board. He speculated that when the boat’s ignition was turned over, it ignited the explosion – a theory he based upon what he had personally witnessed and his extensive decades of seafaring expertise.

“[The captain’s] people got on board, he turned the key, didn’t open the hatches, and didn’t turn on the blowers – he blew people out of the boat,” he said.

He added: “That’s the worst thing, [it was totally] preventable. I find most tragedies are from a lack of education. Many people out here shouldn’t be operating boats.”

A passenger aboard the vessel at the time of the blast, Leo, also told the Miami Herald that the explosion was caused by a gas leak. Leo, who declined to provide his surname and escaped without injury, said: “It was the worst experience of my life.”

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According to dispatch audio logs, fire crews indicated the explosion may have originated from the boat’s fuel tank.

Fire and rescue officials have since released a public statement, with the boat explosion serving as a stark reminder to “prioritise [their] safety while out on the water”.

In their official statement, Miami fire service said: “Make sure your vessel is equipped with a working fire extinguisher and all required safety equipment. Before departure, perform a thorough safety check to ensure your boat is in good working condition and free of potential hazards.

“Taking a few extra precautions can help prevent emergencies and keep everyone safe.”

The explosion and resulting boat fire is now the subject of an official investigation by the authorities, who are yet to establish the cause.

The boat’s captain emerged from the terrifying incident completely unscathed, escaping both the initial blast and the subsequent fire without harm.

TENERIFE, Spain (AP) — A hantavirus-stricken cruise ship with more than 140 people on board has arrived at Tenerife, the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands, off the coast of West Africa, where the passengers and some of the crew are to disembark.

The World Health Organization, Spanish authorities and cruise company Oceanwide Expeditions have said that nobody on board the MV Hondius is currently showing symptoms of the virus. Three people have died since the outbreak, and five passengers who left the ship are infected with hantavirus, which can cause life-threatening illness.

The ship will not dock but will remain at anchor, with people ferried off in small boats. Everyone disembarking will be checked for symptoms, and will only be taken off the ship once evacuation flights are ready to fly them to their destinations.

Hantavirus usually spreads when people inhale contaminated residue of rodent droppings and isn’t easily transmitted between people. But the Andes virus detected in the cruise ship outbreak may be able to spread between people in rare cases. Symptoms usually show between one and eight weeks after exposure.

Authorities are aiming to complete the evacuation flights on Sunday and Monday, the director of the WHO’s Department of Epidemic and Pandemic Management, Maria Van Kerkhove, said in a briefing Saturday.

Both the U.S. and the U.K. have agreed to send planes to evacuate their citizens. Americans are to be quarantined at a medical center in Nebraska.

All Spanish passengers will be transferred to a medical facility and quarantined. Oceanwide has listed 13 Spanish passengers and one Spanish crew member on board.

Those disembarking will leave behind their luggage, and will be allowed to take only a small bag with essential items, a cellphone, charger and documentation.

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Some crew, as well as the body of a passenger who died on board, will remain on the ship, which will sail on to the Netherlands where it will undergo disinfection, Spanish authorities said.

York Against Cancer, which provides care and support to people affected by cancer across York and parts of North and East Yorkshire, has been selected by YorWealth as its charity partner for the year.

The partnership will see YorWealth raise funds and promote awareness of the charity’s services throughout the year.

Katie Machin, director at YorWealth, said: “We are delighted to support York Against Cancer as our Charity of the Year.

“Their work has a real and lasting impact on our community, and we’re looking forward to getting involved, raising funds, and helping to raise awareness of the support they give to local people at the time they need it.”

York Against Cancer has raised more than £20 million since 1987.

The charity provides vital support services and care for patients and families affected by cancer.

We may be seeing Daniel Dubois vs Fabio Wardley again after their incredible heavyweight bout in Manchester on Saturday night.

Dubois stopped Wardley in the 11th round to claim the WBO heavyweight title and become world champion for a second time, but only after huge scares early on.

Just seconds into the fight Dubois was down and he hit the canvas again in the third but battled back and poured on the punishment as the bout progressed.

Wardley was a bloody mess by the time the fight was stopped in the 11th and there is certainly an argument that the referee or his corner should have stepped in earlier.

It was a thrilling contest, but as Wardley bravely survived late on, it became an uncomfortable one, with his eye swollen shut and at times staggering about the ring.

Dubois now has the WBO belt and options in front of him, but promoter Frank Warren has suggested that it could be the same opponent next for both men, with a rematch clause in the fight contract.

After the stunning scrap in Manchester, few fans would complain about seeing it again.

‘These two guys showed such heart and chins,’ said Warren. ‘It was an amazing fight that had everything.

‘There’s a rematch clause in the contract. Let’s let the dust settle in the heavyweight division. Then we’ll see. He’s back and Fabio is not going away either. He’s a true gutsy man.’

Other potential moves for Dubois include a third fight with heavyweight ruler Oleksandr Usyk, although the Ukrainian has already beaten the Brit twice.

Moses Itauma is the mandatory WBO challenger, so will be calling for a bout against Dubois, while the winner of the expected Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury fight could come calling.

Dubois will need time to recover before thinking about what comes next, but was delighted to show off not just his power but his courage.

‘I know I’ve got bundles of heart,’ the 28-year-old said. ‘I’m a warrior in there. It was a flash knockdown. I had to bounce it off and come back harder.

‘It feels great. I thank Fabio for a great fight. We move on now. I had to pull it out of the bag and use all my skills. What a great fight, what a great battle. I’m No1 again.

‘He’s a durable guy. A great warrior. It was an honour to be in the ring with him. I want to grow from this fight and go on a reign as champion again.’

Warren has seen it all in boxing and promoted Tyson Fury over the Gypsy King’s incredible career, but reckons Saturday night was the best heavyweight fight he’s ever put on.

‘You witnessed something special tonight, ultra special,’ said the promoter of both men.

‘Two men bearing their hearts and souls in the ring. They didn’t leave one bit out. It’s the best heavyweight fight I’ve ever done.

‘The determination, the will to win, neither of them taking a backwards step. Amazing.’

MORE: Amir Khan gives final prediction for Fabio Wardley vs Daniel Dubois

MORE: Inside the Daniel Dubois fight camp: ‘Fabio Wardley’s weaknesses are there on a plate’

Simon Wade has sold the Tap and the Tutt in Bridge Street, Boroughbridge, to Punch Pubs & Co, a sale which was announced on Friday.

The company has around 1,300 leased pubs and is based in the traditional brewing town of Burton-on-Trent.

Simon acquired the former Grade II-listed Three Horseshoes in the summer of 2023 from former owner Alison Craddock, who retired, and after a lavish refurbishment, renamed it the Tap on the Tutt.

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It was the third of the Boroughbridge publican’s growing empire, adding to the Grantham Arms, which he acquired in 2018 and then the Fox and Hounds at nearby Langthorpe, gaining its freehold in 2020.

Simon then acquired and refurbished the Blue Bell in nearby Arkendale in October 2024 and only last Friday, re-opened the Punch Bowl at Marton Cum Grafton after another refurbishment.

The Tap on the Tutt (Image: Pic supplied)

The 52-year-old called the sale ‘good news’ adding he was very fortunate to sell the Tap on the Tutt in the current climate, when there are so many pubs on the market, including the nearby Aldwark Arms in Aldwark and The Victoria at Cattal.

Asked why he sold the pub, which has received glowing reviews on websites like Tripadvisor, along with a Cask Marque award for its beer, Simon says it was because he was contacted by Punch.

He told the Press: “They approached me. They said they liked my pub. They said they wanted my pub. They made an offer and I accepted it.”

Simon continued: “In this climate, it’s unusual to have a buyer come to you that doesn’t need finance.

“Because of the challenges to businesses due to the Labour government, it also allows me to continue trading and investing in the rest of my pubs, keeping them afloat and employing people.”

Simon’s other pubs are also highly regarded, again with rave reviews online, with the publican well-known for turning around pubs in the Boroughbridge area and making a success of them.

The Punch Bowl Inn, which re-opened last Friday to much acclaim (Image: Pic supplied)

He says the staff will stay on at the Tap and Tutt, it will remain business as usual, though the pub’s Facebook page says there will eventually be some changes in the drinks range, plus pop up food events.

“I still remain friends with the team and will continue to give guidance and advice.”

The sale follows the acquisition and re-opening of the Punch Bowl, which had been on the market for £695,000 freehold,

Simon continued: “The plan is to develop the Punch Bowl.”

There is a cottage and gardens, with the cottage used as an office by former owner Provenance Inns. The plan is to convert that into a two-bed holiday cottage and find a more productive use for the garden.

Simon said he is delighted with the Punch Bowl’s first week of trading, and enjoyed meeting the villagers, who appreciate how he has transformed the building. And once any issues have been ironed out, he will begin marketing the pub and “shout from the rooftops.”

But already rave reviews are coming in on Tripadvisor and Google.

Among the many plaudits, one said on Tripadvisor: “What a transformation, the Punch Bowl is back with a bang, with a new owner and management and boy does it show. The pub has retained its quirky charm, and now offers great food and truly exceptional service.

“This was long overdue, as it has been in a dire state for many years. I can only suggest you go soon and support the new owner and his team. We will be returning ourselves very soon.”

Offaly face Kilkenny in Round 3 of the Leinster Senior Hurling Championship at Glenisk O’Connor Park, Tullamore on Sunday afternoon. Here’s everything you need to know about the game including kick-off time and TV details

Offaly take on Kilkenny this afternoon in Round 3 of the Leinster Senior Hurling Championship.

The Faithful County opened their campaign with a thrilling draw against Dublin, demonstrating they can compete at this level. However, they fell short of their best in defeat to Galway last time out, and must rediscover their opening-day form if they’re to have any hope of toppling the Cats today.

Here’s everything you need to know about the fixture:

Where is the match taking place?

Glenisk O’Connor Park, Tullamore, reports the Irish Mirror.

What time is throw-in?

The match is scheduled to start at 3pm on Sunday, May 10.

Can I watch the match on TV?

The fixture will not be televised, nor will it be available to stream on GAA+.

Betting odds

Kilkenny are overwhelming favourites:

Offaly – 9/2

Draw – 12/1

Kilkenny – 1/7

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WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court on Monday restored broad access to the abortion pill mifepristone, blocking a lower-court ruling that had threatened to upend one of the main ways abortions are provided across the nation.

The order signed by Justice Samuel Alito temporarily allows women seeking abortions to obtain the pill at pharmacies or through the mail, without an in-person visit to a doctor.

Those practices had been permitted for several years until a federal appeals court imposed new restrictions last week.

The latest order will remain in effect for another week while both sides respond and the high court considers the issue more fully.

Most abortions use pills rather than procedures

The majority of abortions in the U.S. are obtained through medications. Some Democratic-led states have laws that seek to give legal protection to those who prescribe the drugs via telehealth to patients in states with bans.

Those prescriptions have blunted the impact of abortion bans that most Republican-led states have sought to enforce since the 2022 Supreme Court ruling that overturned Roe v. Wade. One recent report suggested that in the 13 states where abortion is banned at all stages of pregnancy, more women obtained abortions with pills prescribed by telehealth last year than by traveling to other states.

Louisiana sued to roll back the Food and Drug Administration’s rules on how mifepristone can be prescribed, asserting that the policy undermines the ban there. The case also questioned the safety of the drug, which was approved 25 years ago and has repeatedly been deemed safe and effective by FDA scientists.

That lawsuit is the furthest along of several efforts by abortion opponents to curtail access to mifepristone.

Restrictions would not end telehealth abortions

Mifepristone is usually taken with a second drug, misoprostol, for abortions. According to the FDA label on mifepristone, the combination completes medical abortion 97.4% of the time.

Misoprostol can also be used alone for terminating pregnancies, with some studies putting its effectiveness at around 80% or higher.

In countries where mifepristone is banned or unavailable, misoprostol is frequently used alone.

Unlike mifepristone, misoprostol has never been formally approved by the FDA for abortion. The drug is most commonly used to treat stomach ulcers, but it has been adapted by doctors for use in medication abortions. Because the FDA never cleared the drug for ending pregnancies, it has faced far less scrutiny from anti-abortion groups.

Several groups that prescribe abortion pills by telehealth made the switch over the weekend to misoprostol only, a regimen that can cause longer-lasting side effects.

Dr. Angel Foster, founder of The Massachusetts Abortion Access Project, said her organization was prepared to send misoprostol only on Monday afternoon but was able to switch back to the two-drug combination.

“Regardless of what happens with this regulatory issue, we and other groups will continue to provide high-quality abortion care to patients in all 50 states,” she said.

Rapid rulings have created confusion

Foster said her organization spent the weekend guiding different groups of patients: those who were sent mifepristone but had not received it yet; those who had been approved for the drugs but had not paid or been sent them; and those who reached out with initial requests.

For now, she said, they are asking patients to approve being sent pills with or without mifepristone — in case of another change.

Monday’s ruling offers more time to figure out a course of action in case mifepristone prescriptions are curtailed again.

“We have a little bit more time to navigate this new landscape with the stay,” said Julie Burkhart, the founder of Wellspring Health Access, a Wyoming abortion clinic that provides roughly 100 abortions a year through pills prescribed by telehealth.

Elizabeth Ling, associate director of legal services at If/When/How, which provides legal guidance for people considering abortion, said that wherever the legal battle goes next, there’s one thing women need to understand: “The outcome is not going to make it a crime for people to access care.”

None of the state laws currently include any punishment for women who obtain abortions.

The court fight continues

Anti-abortion groups vowed to continue the legal battle.

Monday’s ruling “is a temporary procedural step that leaves unresolved the very real concerns about the safety of these drugs and the decision under the Biden administration’s FDA to recklessly remove longstanding safeguards,” Carol Tobias, president of National Right to Life, said in a statement.

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, who filed the lawsuit against the FDA along with a woman who says her boyfriend coerced her into taking abortion pills to end a pregnancy, criticized drug companies for their role in the case.

“Big abortion pharma claims they need an emergency stay because they will lose massive amounts of money if they can’t kill more babies quickly and efficiently by mail without medical oversight,” Murrill said in a statement. “The administrative stay is temporary, and I am confident life and the law will win in the end.”

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Mulvihill reported from Haddonfield, New Jersey. Associated Press Writer Matthew Perrone contributed to this article.

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A previous version of this story had a typo in a quote from Dr. Angel Foster.

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Follow the AP’s coverage of the U.S. Supreme Court at https://apnews.com/hub/us-supreme-court.

The immersive scare maze event attracted people from all across the country

A popular horror attraction that was cancelled earlier this year is set to return at a new Cambridgeshire location. ‘Horror Mania’, previously Horror at Hinchingbrooke House is set to send chills down spines on the grounds of Skylark Garden Centre, in Wimblington.

The immersive scare maze event grew to become one of the UK’s most recognised Halloween events. It attracted people from all across the country.

The event was set inside the grounds and building of Hinchingbrooke House, which is part of Hinchingbrooke School. However, it was announced that the spook-tastic event would not be returning this year after “after careful consideration” by the school, due to “lasting damage” it caused on the school grounds.

Robert Gough, director of the event, said that there was always a worry that the event would not come back following the cancellation and it “would take the right venue” for them to continue – which he believes they have found at Skylark. Robert added: “Skylark reached out to us among other places but we found that the space and the area that they had met the needs that we need for the scare attraction.”

The director said that himself, alongside the team, are especially excited because it has “revitalised the creativity and created a new challenge”. Robert explained that there’s “more potential” at the new venue due to Hinchingbrooke School’s restriction to half term only. Whereas now, Horror Mania could potentially run longer in the future and allow the event to become “bigger and better”.

The venue offers woodland, large spaces and parking. Although the event no longer has Hinchingbrooke House as a backdrop, the team will be replacing it with more outdoor scare areas for even more spooky scenes.

Robert has said that the reaction has been “overwhelmingly positive” and the ticket sales are going fast. The new location will offer thrill-seekers an hour of terror and jumps with their favourite frights expected to make a return. Known for chainsaw freaks, creepy clowns and demonic monsters, the new event will feature more than 100 actors.

Fermanagh take on Longford in the opening round of the Tailteann Cup at Brewster Park, Enniskillen, with throw-in at 3pm

Fermanagh and Longford go head-to-head today in the opening round of the Tailteann Cup.

Last year, Longford failed to progress beyond the group stage, while Fermanagh reached the semi-finals before being knocked out by Kildare, who ultimately lifted the trophy.

Their most recent encounter came in last year’s group stage, with Fermanagh running out convincing winners over Longford by 2-19 to 0-7.

Here’s everything you need to know ahead of today’s clash:

Where is the game being played?, reports the Irish Mirror

Brewster Park, Enniskillen

What time is throw-in?

The game is set to begin at 3pm on Sunday, May 10.

Can I watch the game on TV?

The game is not currently being played on free-to-air TV, or other streaming services.

Betting odds

Fermanagh 1/6

Draw 12/1

Longford 9/2

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