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50 Cent Sues Ex Shaniqua Tompkins Over Shocking Online Tell-All Content

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In July 2025, a viral YouTube trailer for Other Side of the Coin reignited a decades-old saga, thrusting Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and his ex, Shaniqua Tompkins, into a heated federal lawsuit. G-Unit Books, 50 Cent’s publishing imprint, accuses Tompkins of breaking a 2007 contract that gave them exclusive control over her life story. The stakes? A cool $1 million in damages, a court order to silence her online revelations, and a clash over who gets to tell the truth in the digital age. This isn’t just a legal spat it’s a raw, emotional battle over personal history, trauma, and power.

Dating back to 2007, 50 Cent’s first son Marquise’s mother, Tompkins, signed an agreed life rights contract through G-Unit Books for $80,000, plus future earnings. In plain terms, G-Unit owned her story her face, name, and life experiences, most of which concerned her relationship with 50 Cent for good. The deal was “irrevocable, exclusive, and perpetual,” barring her from sharing or profiting off her personal history without their approval. Why do celebrities like 50 Cent secure these contracts? To control their narrative, protect their brand, and sometimes, as attorney Reena Jain noted, to prevent others from

“monetizing their history and his name.”

In today’s world of YouTube and TikTok, though, enforcing such limits is like trying to hold water in your hands.

G-Unit claims Tompkins crossed the line with her 2023 web series Other Side of the Coin, where she boldly stated she

“helped to build the G-Unit legacy”

and that

“Curtis ‘50 Cent’ Jackson wouldn’t be who he is today without her.”

More recently, her Instagram posts, including one tied to the high-profile Diddy trial, stirred the pot further. In it, she quipped,

“Fun fact: I ain’t never sell no ?,”

seemingly challenging the contract’s validity.

Beyond contracts, this case cuts deep. Tompkins has accused 50 Cent of physically assaulting her during her 1996 pregnancy and throughout their relationship, claims she aired in Unspoken: Story Time clips and social media. These allegations, verified by consistent reporting across Yahoo, WBLS, and HotNewHipHop, add a gut-wrenching layer. Can a contract silence someone’s trauma? G-Unit’s attorney, Reena Jain, insists Tompkins’ actions were “intentional,” damaging the “core value” of the deal’s exclusivity. Yet, for Tompkins, speaking out may be about reclaiming her voice after years of silence.

This lawsuit mirrors a broader trend: celebrities battling to control their stories as social media empowers anyone to go viral. Think Surviving R. Kelly, where survivors’ voices sparked legal fights, or Britney Spears’ memoir, navigating her conservatorship’s shadow. The digital era has flipped the script life rights deals, once ironclad, now face the chaos of YouTube and Instagram. As Jain put it, Tompkins’ posts were a

“strategic move to reignite interest”

in her story, leveraging platforms that didn’t exist in 2007.

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Until mid-July 2025, Tompkins has not publicly responded to the lawsuit. G-Unit is requesting an injunction for the erasure of her content, an eternal gag, and no less than $1 million in damages, along with costs. The case, filed in federal court, could see preliminary hearings soon to address content takedowns. Legal experts may debate whether perpetual contracts hold up against modern free speech principles, especially when abuse allegations are involved.

21 Years, 1 Million Tiny Buildings: How One Man Recreated New York City by Hand

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Daily life for the young lad growing up in Queens would have him staring out his bedroom window, eyes fixed upon the distant outline of the World Trade Center as it sliced through the New York City skyline. This view, history now, would become the spark for an unprecedented 21-year-long journey. An unnamed artist, known on TikTok as @balsastyrofoam300, has spent over two decades hand-carving a miniature replica of New York City from balsa wood, a project that has recently captured hearts across social media.

The model is staggering in scope: 50 feet long, 30 feet wide, and encompassing all five boroughs Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. With nearly 1 million buildings, the replica includes iconic landmarks like the Freedom Tower, the Woolworth Building, and even the Twin Towers, preserved as a nod to the city’s past.

“This is the World Trade Center,”

the creator says in a viral TikTok video, pointing to a meticulously carved section of downtown Manhattan.

“I kept it in my favorite buildings.”

With 350 sections, the model includes subtle details, from the 1913 Woolworth Building’s Art Deco steeple to the Wall Street business district, including 40 Wall Street and the American International Building. Strategically hand-crafted individually, each component is of a city that is both personal history and historical narrative.

The project exploded into public view in July 2025, thanks to TikTok and X posts that garnered thousands of likes and shares. Outlets like Not the Bee and Trending American praised the creator’s dedication, with comments calling it

“a dream come true for every New Yorker.”

On Reddit, users marveled at the claim of nearly 1 million buildings, though some questioned its feasibility.

“NYC has about that many buildings in real life,”

one user noted,

“but carving that many? That’s wild.”

To put that into perspective, Queens Museum’s Panorama of the City of New York, built as part of the 1964 World’s Fair by more than 100 workers, is comprised of around 895,000 buildings. To compare, that institutional work was created by only one person, without funds or corporate sponsorship.

More than its technical success, the model is of immense sentimental value. By incorporating the Twin Towers, the artist is offering tribute to a city that has experienced loss and change.

“This is my tribute to New York’s complexity and resilience,”

he described in a later post, highlighting his own affection for the city’s history. Every sculpted building, from the Manhattan Courthouse to Battery Park, is the story of city life, memory, and resolve.

Even though the model is not yet on public view, its online popularity has lent momentum to calls for an exhibition at the museum. Until that day, however, @balsastyrofoam300 continues to upload samples of his work, vowing to reveal still other parts, including Battery Park and the New York Harbor, in future videos. What began as a childhood dream has gained global popularity, proving that the determination of an individual can save the spirit of an entire city.

Rep. Paulina Confirms Private Talk with Nicki Minaj After MackWop’s Alarming Threat

A chilling threat from a music industry figure has pulled a U.S. congresswoman into the world of hip-hop drama, as Rep. Anna Paulina Luna steps in to protect Nicki Minaj. On July 18, 2025, the Florida Republican confirmed she spoke directly with the rap superstar after Minaj reported a disturbing comment made by Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE) affiliate MackWop. The incident, which Minaj called a possible assassination threat, has sparked concerns about artist safety and corruption in the rap industry.

The controversy began on July 16, 2025, during a livestream where MackWop, a DJ linked to TDE since 2008, told Minaj to “relax” or risk being “put in the blender like your boy did.” Minaj interpreted this as a reference to Tory Lanez, who was stabbed in prison in May 2025, though some speculate it alluded to Drake’s 2024 rap battle loss to TDE’s Kendrick Lamar. The comment came amid a heated feud between Minaj and TDE, which flared up on July 15 when Minaj accused TDE president Terrence “Punch” Henderson of bullying her online. She also targeted TDE artist SZA with harsh remarks about her appearance and career, escalating tensions.

Feeling threatened, Minaj took to X on July 17, tagging the FBI and CIA and demanding an investigation into MackWop’s statement. She wrote,

“Is this a threat? @FBI I want this man investigated right away,”

and linked the comment to broader allegations of “shady business” in the industry. Minaj also reached out to Rep. Luna, stating,

“@RepLuna this man just publicly threatened me. I’ve notified the FBI & CIA. I want this thug locked up & I’m ready to talk about everything these ppl have done to me.”

Luna responded quickly on X, saying,

“Please text my cell, I will forward this to law enforcement immediately. Threats of violence and assassination should be taken very seriously. Hope you’re ok, we’ll talk soon @NICKIMINAJ.”

Later, Luna confirmed their conversation, posting,

“Can confirm, I spoke with @NICKIMINAJ directly and will be doing everything we can to ensure her safety. We take threats of violence and assassination very seriously. RICO is also illegal. I am deeply concerned that there has been unchecked corruption within certain aspects of the rap industry. Artists should be respected and not afraid of managers, labels, etc.”

Luna’s involvement highlights the gravity of the situation, as she vowed to forward the alleged threat to law enforcement. Her mention of RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act) violations ties into Minaj’s ongoing claims of systemic issues in the music industry. Earlier, on July 9, Minaj accused Jay-Z of owing her $100 million to $200 million from their Tidal partnership, vowing to use the funds for her #StudentOfTheGame charity to support fans’ education.

The public reaction on X has been intense, with fans rallying behind Minaj. One user wrote,

“THANK YOU, Rep. Luna. We seriously need you to look into this. SHE out here calling an icon miserable & making threats against her life & career, it’sn’t just shade, it’s dangerous.”

MackWop later clarified during his livestream that he meant no harm, calling Minaj “dope,” but the damage was done. With Minaj’s history of calling out industry figures and Luna’s pledge to investigate, this incident raises bigger questions about artist safety and power dynamics in hip-hop.

Deadly Blast at LA Sheriff’s Training Center Leaves 3 Dead — What We Know So Far

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July 18, 2025, was when a catastrophic explosion struck the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) Biscailuz Center Training Academy in East Los Angeles, killing three sheriff’s deputies and injuring one individual. What occurred around 7:30 a.m. at 1060 N. Eastern Ave. was an explosion that happened near a bomb squad truck as part of training exercises. What has occurred has rocked the law enforcement community and has already put into clear focus safety standards concerns within special-risk training facilities.

The explosion took place here at the Biscailuz Center, an accredited training facility used to administer advanced law enforcement training, including bomb squad and tactical training. Initial reports state that the deputies, who were said to have been bomb squad agents, were executing or repositioning live rounds when the explosion occurred.

“It appears an accident occurred when deputies were moving ordinances on the training facility property,”

a source told Fox News. The Los Angeles County Fire Department and the FBI responded quickly, and the area had been evacuated due to potential hazards. News helicopter aerial video recorded an out-of-sight LASD vehicle and shattered rear windshield, evidencing the force of the blast.

The loss of three deputies has left the LASD and the broader community reeling.

“I just spoke to [U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli] about what appears to be a horrific incident that killed at least three at a law enforcement training facility in Los Angeles,”

said U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi on social media.

“Our federal agents are at the scene, and we are working to learn more. Please pray for the families of the sheriff’s deputies killed.”

California Governor Gavin Newsom also offered “full state support,” Supervisor Hilda Solis expressed her sorrow, writing,

“My thoughts are with all who are mourning and first responders on the scene.”

Twitter posts by people like @oscar4lasheriff repeated:

“Our hearts are heavy this morning.”

The 2017 Biscailuz Center is also a strategic base for LASD’s Special Enforcement Bureau, where deputys are trained under high-risk conditions such as bomb disposal. This is, however, not the first tragedy to occur on an LASD training ground. There was the October 2023 death of a deputy who perished in a fire involving a mobile gun range, suing for alleged safety breaches. This had brought into question maintenance of equipment and supervision, concerns that have re-emerged as investigators explore the cause of the July 18 explosion. There is increasing media and public attention, as there are questions regarding handling of live explosives and the adequacy of the measures to safeguard trainees.

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BREAKING: A DEADLY EXPLOSION just occurred at the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s training Department facility. The reason for the explosion is not known…

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Throughout the course of the probe, officials are also going to release more details about the cause and conditions of the blast. Sheriff Robert Luna and federal officials might issue follow-up comments, also potentially including safety procedures and equipment checks. This disaster is going to trigger an entire evaluation of training exercises across the state of California, after an explosion in 2024 injured multiple members of the SWAT squad as they participated in the same training exercise.

Chaos on 305 Podcast: Furious Guest Lunges at Mr. Organik Mid-Show

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A live taping of the 305 Podcast in Miami spiraled into mayhem when a female guest lunged at rapper and YouTuber Mr. Organik during a heated argument, leaving the hosts racing to regain control. The explosive incident, captured in a video posted online on July 18, 2025, titled “304 Attacks Mr. Organik!” has ignited a firestorm of reactions across social media, with viewers clamoring for answers about what fueled the clash.

The drama unfolded on the 305 Podcast, a Miami show known for its gritty takes on relationships and culture. Mr. Organik, whose real name is Jarvis Rivers, was mid-discussion when tensions boiled over with an unidentified female guest. A short clip reveals her shouting homophobic insults, including

“This nigga fucks men,”

before physically confronting Organik. The hosts, caught off guard, yelled

“Stop, stop, stop!”

As they tried to break up the scuffle, they eventually escorted the woman out of the studio.

It is unclear what specifically triggered the woman’s rant but the back-and-forth implies an extremely personal confrontation, potentially involving Organik’s statements or public life. Famed for his vocal, candid style, Organik seemed shell-shocked, repeating,

“What are you doing?”

As he urged her to back off. The clip, belonging to the Fresh and Fit podcast’s FreshPrinceCeo channel, has fanned outrage that an episode’s risqué format goes too far.

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Mr. Organik, a 43-year-old San Diego native, is a polarizing figure with a net worth of about $1 million as of 2023. His YouTube channel showcases a lavish lifestyle, from high-end cars to luxury vlogs, while his music career includes tracks like “All Praise” and the 2018 album Me Season: Memories and Legacies. He also penned the Organik Seeds of Greatness book series on Amazon. Yet, his reputation has taken hits, with some online critics accusing him of promoting questionable ventures.

The female guest’s identity hasn’t been disclosed, and neither Organik nor the 305 Podcast crew have commented publicly since the incident. Tied to Miami’s 305 Films, the podcast thrives on raw, no-holds-barred content, which likely set the stage for this volatile moment. As the clip spreads like wildfire online, fans are dissecting every detail, hungry for more context on what drove the guest to snap.

Couple Found Shot Dead Inside Juice WRLD’s Old Mansion in Suspected Double Murder

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A grisly scene unfolded in a sprawling Encino mansion, once home to the late rapper Juice WRLD, where police uncovered a chilling double homicide. On July 14, 2025, a welfare check led authorities to the bodies of a couple, both killed by gunshot wounds to the head, in a tragedy that has rocked Los Angeles’ upscale community. The violent deaths, now under intense investigation, point to a confrontation gone horribly wrong.

Their victims were Robin Kaye, 70, who was an adored music supervisor for American Idol, as well as her 70-year-old husband, Thomas Deluca, who is an experienced musician. They became concerned when they hadn’t heard back from the couple for four days, forcing officers to head to their $4.5 million mansion. Officers noticed blood on the porch, shattered a window to gain entry, and found the pair deceased in different rooms, each sustaining lethal head injury. Investigators assume that the murder took place on July 10, 2025, after an intruder had walked into the house.

Police swiftly arrested Raymond Boodarian, a 22-year-old Encino local, on July 15, 2025, charging him with two counts of murder. Investigators say Boodarian climbed a fence and slipped through an unlocked door, lingering inside for about 30 minutes before the homeowners returned. A violent struggle followed, ending in the couple’s deaths. While the motive remains murky, police are exploring a possible burglary angle, as the home showed no signs of being ransacked. A gun found at Boodarian’s residence is now being tested to confirm its role in the crime.

The mansion, steeped in music history as Juice WRLD’s former home, belonged to Kaye and Deluca, not an Airbnb as some speculated. The rapper, who died in 2019 from a drug overdose, had sold the property years earlier. Despite its high walls and security cameras, the suspect allegedly exploited an unsecured door to gain entry. Neighbors had called police about a suspicious person on July 10, but officers found nothing amiss at the time.

The LAPD is digging into whether Boodarian knew the victims, with surveillance footage providing key evidence in his arrest. The case has gripped the public for its connection to Juice WRLD and the loss of Kaye, a pivotal figure in American Idol’s music production since 2009. The show’s team released a statement expressing deep sorrow, calling her a vital part of their family.

Boy, 14, and Man, 25, Arrested for $100K Kidnapping Plot of 7-Year-Old Jamal White

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 A shocking kidnapping plot unraveled in Milwaukee, gripping the community as a 14-year-old boy and 25-year-old Corey Williams were arrested for abducting 7-year-old Jamal White in a bold $100,000 ransom scheme. The incident, which unfolded on July 11, 2025, targeted Jamal’s mother, Shavon Williams, due to her alleged reputation as a well-known drug dealer who flaunted her wealth. What began as a robbery plan spiraled into a high-stakes crime, leaving a young boy caught in the crosshairs.

On the evening of July 11, near 61st and Hustis streets in Wyrick Park, Milwaukee, the suspects allegedly used a white Jeep Renegade with no license plates to abduct Jamal while he rode his bike. Surveillance footage captured the chilling moment when two individuals, one reportedly the 14-year-old wearing a face mask and carrying a handgun, chased Jamal and his father. When the father fled inside, the group seized Jamal at gunpoint, hoping to extort money from his mother. They demanded $100,000 and jewelry, arranging a meeting at a nearby park, but Shavon never showed up.

The plot began to crumble when an Amber Alert was issued less than 24 hours later, on July 12. Panicked by the alert, the suspects abandoned Jamal at Corey Williams’ duplex near 39th and Lloyd streets, where police later found him safe in the attic, though disturbingly, with a methamphetamine pill in his pocket. Corey Williams hid in the same attic as police closed in, while the 14-year-old and a third suspect, a 38-year-old man, were also apprehended. As of now, only Williams faces formal charges, including kidnapping and taking hostages, which could lead to over 100 years in prison if he’s convicted.

 
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Court documents reveal the suspects believed Shavon Williams’ alleged drug activities made her an easy target for a lucrative payout. They called her over 40 times during Jamal’s ordeal, but her refusal to cooperate with both the kidnappers and investigators has complicated the case. Jamal, now in the custody of child protective services, bravely identified Corey Williams as the driver in a photo array and shared how he was grabbed and taken in a car with three unknown men.

The Milwaukee Police Department confirmed no additional suspects are being sought, signaling that the focus remains on the arrested trio. Community members rallied during the Amber Alert, aiding in the search for Jamal and highlighting the city’s resilience in times of crisis.

12-Year-Old Virginia Hero Saves Family From House Fire Before Help Arrives

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A 12-year-old Ramir Parker of Petersburg, Virginia, is being hailed as a hometown hero after rescuing his baby brothers and grandmother from a house fire that broke out in their home on June 3.

The fire erupted just after noon at the Parker family’s residence on the 2000 block of Burks Street. Investigators determined that an accidental electrical malfunction on the lower level of the house caused the blaze. While flames and smoke rapidly spread, Ramir’s instincts kicked in—ultimately saving the lives of his 1- and 2-year-old brothers and his grandmother.

Ramir, a rising seventh grader, was upstairs with his grandmother when he heard an unusual crackling sound and caught the scent of smoke. At first, he suspected his brothers were playing, but he quickly acted upon discovering the growing smoke downstairs. Downstairs, his 1-year-old and 2-year-old brothers had just awakened from a nap. Thick smoke had already started filling the rooms. Ramir, undeterred, charged through the haze and carried them to safety, one in each arm. Then he returned to help his grandmother escape.

“I yelled, ‘Fire!’ and just ran,”

Ramir later told local reporters.

“I didn’t even think. I just knew I had to get them out.”

 kid hero stops tragedy in virginia fire
Ramir Parker PHOTO-Petersburg Fire Rescue & Emergency Services/Facebook

Andrea Parker, Ramir’s mother, told WTVR-TVL,

“My mother-in-law told me that my son said he smelled fire and they went downstairs thinking it was his little brothers playing, but it wasn’t,”

inspirational kid rescues family in house fire
PHOTO- Petersburg Fire Rescue & Emergency Services/Facebook

Firefighters responded to the call at around 8:51 a.m. to find flames and heavy smoke coming from the residence. The blaze, which took about 20 minutes to control, was later ruled an accidental electrical fire from the downstairs area. Live power lines ablaze added to the complexity of the operation.

“A 12-year-old knew his house was on fire, took time, got his 1-year-old and 2-year-old brother out of the house, made sure his grandmother was out—that’s things you would expect out of an adult. The bottom line, he saved his family’s life.”

Said Petersburg Fire Chief Wayne Hoover.

story of boy saving brothers and grandma from fire
PHOTO- Petersburg Fire Rescue & Emergency Services/Facebook

On June 18, Ramir was formally recognized by the Petersburg City Council, receiving a proclamation honoring his courage and presence of mind. He was also named an honorary Petersburg firefighter. Chief Hoover even extended a future job offer, saying,

“When he turns 18, he’s got a job with us.”

Ramir says with a shy smile that,

“I might take that,”

He says his dad instilled a love for his family and a sense of responsibility.

“Dad said I’m the man of the house when he’s gone,” Ramir shares quietly. “So I had to be the man.”

young hero saves lives in virginia house blaze
PHOTO- City of Petersburg, Virginia

Petersburg Fire Rescue & Emergency Services praised Ramir in a public Facebook post:

“Ramir saved lives today. His quick thinking and selfless bravery are nothing short of heroic… Ramir, we see you. We salute you.”

Ramir Parker’s story powerfully reminds us of the courage and heart that can emerge in the face of danger, even from the youngest among us.

Klay Thompson Finally Breaks Silence on Megan Thee Stallion Romance Rumors

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“She inspires so many,” the NBA star said of Megan at her inaugural Pete & Thomas Foundation Gala in NYC.

Klay Thompson is opening up about the woman he loves — and the incredible legacy that helped shape her.

megan thee stallion dating klay thompson update
PHOTO-Getty Images

The Golden State Warriors star, 35, and Grammy-winning rapper Megan Thee Stallion, 30, made their official red carpet debut as a couple at the first-ever Pete & Thomas Foundation Gala in New York City on July 16. The black-tie event honored Megan’s late parents, Joseph Pete Jr. and Holly Thomas, and raised more than $1.2 million to support underserved communities.

Speaking exclusively to Us Weekly at the event, Thompson offered a rare glimpse into their relationship — and his profound admiration for the woman beside him.

“I would’ve loved to meet Holly and Joe,” Thompson said, referring to Megan’s parents. “I believe they would be incredibly proud of their only daughter for what she has accomplished and what she will continue to do.”

He continued,

“She has never confined herself to limitations and consistently inspires many around the world. It feels amazing because Megan is such a remarkable individual. I’ve witnessed it firsthand.”

The three-time NBA champion praised Megan’s growing philanthropic work through the Pete & Thomas Foundation, calling it “yet another incredible achievement.”

“She’s giving back, building something lasting, and doing it in honor of her parents. That’s powerful,”

 megan thee stallion and klay thompson spotted

For Megan, the night was deeply personal. Her father, Joseph, died when she was just 15. Her mother, Holly, who was also her manager and an artist herself under the name “Holly-Wood,” passed away in 2019 after a battle with a brain tumor.

“I feel like they can see what I’m doing right now,”

Megan told PEOPLE on the red carpet.

“I feel like they’re looking down on me from heaven, and I feel like they’re like, ‘Yes, daughter!’ My daddy especially — I feel like he’s like, ‘This is exactly what I knew my child was gonna do.’ So yeah, I feel like they’re super proud.”

The Pete & Thomas Foundation, which Megan launched in 2022, is named in honor of her parents and focuses on education, housing, health, wellness, and community programs — all values she says were instilled in her from a young age.

Watching Megan carry out that legacy for Thompson has been nothing short of inspiring.

“Her parents live on in everything she does,” he said. “That’s what love looks like.”

$138M Pirate Treasure Ship May Finally Be Found After 300 Years Lost at Sea

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Off Nosy Boraha, Madagascar, an ANCIENT SECRET has emerged from the sea. It took 16 years of tedious research, but archaeologists believe they have salvaged the wreckage of the Nossa Senhora do Cabo, a pirate-attacked Portuguese carrack that sailed out of port in 1721. Laden down with gold, jewels, and an unsettling human cost, the discovery might re-write an episode of naval history.

The Nossa Senhora do Cabo, or “Our Lady of the Cape,” was no ordinary ship. Originally a Dutch man-of-war, this 700-ton vessel was repurposed to carry treasures from Portugal’s colony in Goa, India, to Lisbon in early 1721. Its cargo was staggering: gold and silver bars, rare coins, silks, and over 400 gemstones, including 110 diamonds and 250 emeralds, worth an estimated $138 million today. Aboard were high-ranking passengers, including the Portuguese Viceroy of Goa and the Archbishop of Goa, alongside over 200 enslaved people from Mozambique.

“This is one of the most important maritime discoveries of our era,”

said Brandon Clifford, director of the Center for Historic Shipwreck Preservation, which spearheaded the dig.

On 8 April 1721, disaster hit off Réunion Island, Indian Ocean. The Nossa Senhora do Cabo had already been battered by storm, losing its masts and being forced to jettison most of its 72 cannons to stay afloat. This had rendered the ship helpless when French pirate Olivier “The Buzzard” Levasseur and his associate John Taylor sailed down with their fleet.

“The pirates seized a staggering amount of treasure,”

noted Clifford, describing a haul that included chests of pearls and religious relics destined for Lisbon’s cathedrals. The attack, one of the richest pirate heists in history, was over quickly, with the weakened carrack offering little resistance. The pirates sailed their prize to Nosy Boraha, then known as Île Sainte-Marie, a notorious pirate haven, before scuttling it in Ambodifotatra Bay.

For centuries, the Nossa Senhora do Cabo had been a naval enigma, its fate being argued among historians. Along came American archaeologists Brandon Clifford and Mark Agostini, who started exploring the shipwreck site in 2009. By applying sonar scanning and remote sensing, their crew traced a wreck off Îlot Madame, a small isle off Nosy Boraha. So far, more than 3,300 pieces have been excavated, among them gold coins bearing Arabic inscriptions, pieces of Chinese porcelain, as well as Goan religious objects such as a Virgin Mary statuette and an ivory plaque bearing “INRI” (Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews).

“These materials provide a robust profile of a ship engaged in transoceanic trade,”

Agostini told Live Science, emphasizing how the artifacts align with historical records of the Cabo’s cargo. The ship’s timber structure further supports its identification as an 18th-century Portuguese vessel.

While the $138 million valuation captures headlines, the discovery raises deeper questions. The fate of the 200 enslaved individuals aboard remains unknown, a stark reminder of the colonial era’s human toll.

“The site is extraordinary and still hides so much,”

Agostini said, advocating for further exploration of Nosy Boraha, where up to 10 other wrecks may lie.

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This wreck echoes that of the 1984 discovery of the Whydah Gally, the submerged pirate ship off Cape Cod that held 200,000 artifacts. But the Nossa Senhora do Cabo offers us something more than treasure, for it yields a world of piracy, of empire, of drowned lives. As Clifford and Agostini lay out their work, they also teach us that history, as does the sea, has narratives that compel us to be curious as well as responsible.

Tracy Morgan’s Luxury Car Collection Grows After $90M Walmart Crash Payout

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Tracy Morgan, the celebrated comedian and actor known for his work on Saturday Night Live and 30 Rock, has rebuilt his life—and done so in style—after surviving a devastating car crash in 2014. In the years since the accident and subsequent legal settlement with Walmart, Morgan has become a recurring figure in the New York luxury car scene, with sightings in some of the most extravagant vehicles money can buy.

The life-altering accident occurred on June 7, 2014, when a Walmart tractor-trailer slammed into the limousine bus carrying Morgan and his friends on the New Jersey Turnpike. The crash claimed the life of his longtime friend and mentor, James “Jimmy Mac” McNair, and left Morgan with severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, broken bones, and emotional trauma. He spent eight days in a coma and underwent extensive rehabilitation, including relearning how to walk.

2014 walmart truck crash
Tracy Morgan devastating car crash in 2014 photo-

Legal proceedings soon followed, with Morgan suing Walmart for negligence. By 2015, the case concluded in a confidential settlement widely reported to be around $90 million. While Morgan’s legal team once disputed that exact figure, calling it “not even close,” more recent reports cite the $90 million number as a generally accepted estimate. Walmart also reached a separate $10 million settlement with McNair’s children.

Since the settlement, Morgan has lived what many describe as a lavish lifestyle, most notably by his love of exotic cars. Mainstream outlets and the ever-watchful lens of social media have chronicled his high-profile vehicle sightings.

Among the highlights:

  • Bugatti Veyron Incident (2019): Morgan made headlines when his $2 million Bugatti Veyron was sideswiped in New York’s Hell’s Kitchen just minutes after he purchased it. “Thanks for any concern but I am totally fine,” he tweeted, sparking a viral moment covered by CNN.
  • Lamborghini Drama in Times Square (2020): Morgan once again made headlines after being caught on video arguing with a pedestrian after a near-miss while driving a red Lamborghini. The Daily Mail reported that no charges or police reports were filed.
  • 2023 SVJ Sideswipe: Autoevolution detailed another incident involving his Lamborghini Aventador SVJ, requiring significant repairs. Despite the damage, Morgan remained a frequent sight on city streets.

In recent days, the buzz has reignited. On July 17, 2025, @DailyLoud posted a video on X (formerly Twitter) showing Morgan cruising through New York in luxury rides. The post garnered over 3 million views.

Morgan’s fortune isn’t solely tied to the Walmart settlement. His continued work in television, film, and endorsements has bolstered his financial status. Finance reports from 2025 place his net worth in a healthy range, enough to support an exotic car collection that includes Bugattis and Lamborghinis—vehicles that often cost between $500,000 and $2 million.

Interestingly, some reports and online discussions suggest Morgan had an affinity for luxury cars before 2015. A 2015 article from BestRide noted him driving a Lamborghini Aventador Roadster, indicating that his taste for fast cars predates the settlement.

While many fans celebrate Morgan’s comeback and enjoy spotting him in New York traffic, others raise eyebrows at the extravagance. Critics have questioned whether flaunting wealth is appropriate given the circumstances that led to the settlement. Still, Morgan has never shied away from the spotlight, embracing his recovery and success with characteristic boldness.

Red Bull Daredevil Felix Baumgartner Dies at 56 in Paragliding Tragedy

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Felix Baumgartner, the Austrian skydiver and extreme sports icon who stunned the world with his record-breaking 2012 jump from the stratosphere, has died at the age of 56 in a tragic paragliding accident in Italy.

The accident occurred on July 17 around 4:00 PM in Porto Sant’Elpidio, a coastal town along Italy’s Adriatic shoreline. According to authorities, Baumgartner was piloting a motorized paraglider when he appeared to suffer a sudden medical emergency mid-flight, losing control of the aircraft. The paraglider crashed into a hotel swimming pool, where he was pronounced dead at the scene.

A hotel employee was also injured in the crash, sustaining minor neck injuries. The employee was transported to a nearby hospital and is expected to recover. Officials confirmed that Baumgartner had launched from a licensed motor-paragliding site. His partner, who was in the vicinity, was notified immediately.

Just hours before the accident, Baumgartner posted on Instagram from an airfield, captioning a photo “Too much wind” — possibly foreshadowing difficult flying conditions.

 felix baumgartner stratosphere jump 2012
photo- Instagram/therealfelixbaumgartner

Baumgartner became an international sensation on October 14, 2012, when he ascended 39 kilometers (24 miles) into the stratosphere in a helium balloon as part of the Red Bull Stratos project. Wearing a specially designed pressure suit, he jumped, surviving and making history.

During the descent, Baumgartner reached speeds of 1,357.64 km/h (843.6 mph), breaking the sound barrier and setting three world records: the highest freefall, the highest manned balloon flight, and the first human to exceed the speed of sound in freefall. The event captivated global audiences, with over 8 million people watching the jump live on YouTube, making it one of the most-viewed live streams in internet history.

who was felix baumgartner red bull skydiver
Felix Baumgartner made history on October 14, 2012, when he ascended 39 kilometers (24 miles) into the stratosphere in a helium balloon as part of the Red Bull Stratos project photo- redbull.com

Born on April 20, 1969, in Salzburg, Austria, Baumgartner began skydiving at age 16 and later refined his skills in the Austrian military. He joined forces with Red Bull in 1988, embarking on a series of audacious stunts that would define his career.

Among his many feats:

  • Jumping from the 88th floor of the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur in 1999
  • Crossing the English Channel with a carbon fiber wing in 2003
  • Executing the lowest recorded BASE jump from the hand of Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer statue
  • Being the first to BASE jump from France’s Millau Viaduct in 2004

In all, Baumgartner held 14 world records in extreme sports.

His daring achievements brought global acclaim. He was named Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year in 2013, received Germany’s prestigious Bambi award in 2012, and was celebrated by Top Gear magazine as one of its “Men of the Year.”

red bull athlete dies paragliding in italy
Laureus Action Sportsman of the Year – 2013 photo- felixbaumgartner.com

After his historic jump, Baumgartner gradually returned from extreme sports, turning to a long-held passion: aviation. He became a licensed commercial helicopter pilot and worked toward certification as a rescue pilot, flying across Europe.

As of this writing, neither the Austrian government nor Red Bull has issued formal statements. However, tributes have flooded social media from fans, fellow adventurers, and sports organizations, all mourning the loss of a man who turned the sky into his playground.

“Sometimes you have to go up really high to understand how small you are,”

Baumgartner once said. That sentiment, delivered before his leap from space, now resonates as a poignant farewell from a man who forever changed the limits of human courage.

 felix baumgartner death news update
photo- redbull.com

Baumgartner’s passing is a powerful reminder that even for those who chase the extraordinary, fate often arrives in the most ordinary moments. But his legacy will endure — in the sky he conquered, and in the hearts of those who watched him dare to fall.

Rashee Rice Learns His Fate After Deadly Dallas Crash

On a busy Dallas freeway, breaking glass and screeching tires marked the start of a catastrophe that would change Rashee Rice’s life forever. On March 30, 2024, the wide receiver of the Kansas City Chiefs, driving a Lamborghini Urus at a record-breaking 119 mph, clipped another car and triggered a fatal chain-reaction collision. The accident, on North Central Expressway, wreaked havoc, injuring at least four, and now, more than a year later, resulted in a sobering court reckoning.

Rice, a 25-year-old rising star drafted by the Chiefs in 2023, was street racing with friend Teddy Knox, a former SMU defensive back, when disaster struck. Rice’s Lamborghini, traveling 119 mph in a 70 mph zone, slammed into a median wall, setting off a multi-vehicle melee. Knox, driving a Corvette at 116 mph, was involved as well. The brawl injured two individuals and sent others suffering minor injuries to the side of the road for medical attention. Rice and Knox fled on foot, not bothering to give aid, an act that stoked widespread indignation.

Dallas Police arrested Rice on eight charges ranging from aggravated assault to collision for serious bodily injury. On July 17, 2025, a Dallas County judge convicted Rice after he had pleaded guilty to two third-degree felonies, collision causing serious bodily injury and highway racing causing injury. His sentence: 30 months of deferred probation and 30 days in the Dallas County jail, either to be served at any point during the period of the probation. Deferred adjudication would see the case dismissed if Rice successfully navigated the period of probation, without actually being convicted.

Rice expressed deep remorse through his attorney, Royce West, a Texas state senator.

“Last March, I was involved in a high-speed accident in Dallas,”

Rice said.

“There have been a lot of sleepless nights thinking about the damages that my actions caused… I urge everyone to mind the speed limit, drive safe and drive smart… I am profoundly sorry for the physical damages to person and property.”

His apology focused on wanting to make restitution, such as paying over $115,000 in restitution for victims’ medical bills and settling a $1-million civil lawsuit filed by two victims.

Creuzot’s district attorney’s office emphasized, as it did, holding individuals accountable.

“When an individual of Mr. Rice’s public stature choose to drive so negligently, it becomes necessary to be accountable for the danger posed to the entire citizenry at large,”

Creuzot continued. The financial settlements and probation terms reflect an effort to compensate victims while allowing Rice a path to redemption.

With the court case now closed, the NFL, after awaiting the court process, can act to enforce the Personal Conduct Policy. Experts feel Rice would be suspended for several games during the 2025 season, ranging anywhere from two to four, according to Chiefs insider Matt Derrick. The league’s spokesman, Brian McCarthy, conceded to further review, insinuating the inevitability of punishment.

Rice’s football career, once stunted by a 2024 knee injury that only granted him four times of playing, now takes place under possible uncertainty. As a rookie in the 2023 season, he broke out for 79 receptions, 938 yards, and seven touchdowns, catapulting the Chiefs to a Super Bowl victory. His skill renders possible absence a loss for the squad, something it may need to replace the gap of in the absence of Rice through sophomore receiver Xavier Worthy.

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Rice’s case brings the danger of street racing into high relief, since it’s a high-risk activity that endangers life and disrupts society. It also raises questions of leadership responsibility. Rice’s critics regard the deferred judgment as being soft, while his supporters note that the payment in full plus the public apology demonstrate he accepts responsibility. The incident places the danger of high-speed driving in vivid relief, particularly for sports icons under whose every step the eyes of the world are glued.

Woman Arrested in Cold-Blooded Killing of Project Pat’s Son

January 10, 2025, was the day the Memphis hip-hop scene was rocked by the shooting death of 21-year-old Patrick Houston Jr., the son of renowned rapper Project Pat. The young man was found lifeless along Ketchum Road and Long Street, near Charjean Park in the Imogene Heights neighborhood. Police were summoned to the scene around 1:15 p.m. to find Houston Jr. unresponsive, having succumbed due to multiple gunshot injuries. The daytime tragedy rocked the city and the hip-hop scene, no doubt stoked by the fact that Project Pat was a hip-hop mogul of the South as much as he was the brother of Three 6 Mafia founder Juicy J.

Memphis Police Department (MPD) began a thorough investigation, gathering evidence in a city not unfamiliar with handgun violence. By June 27, 2025, the police had issued an arrest warrant for Talia Jones, 19, charging her with enabling a first-degree murder. The crime of enabling means that the crime allegedly was planned or executed by Jones, even if she did not actually shoot anyone. The U.S. Marshals Service’s Two Rivers Violent Fugitive Task Force pursued the case, tracing the trail of Jones to Minneapolis, Minnesota, from which she had fled following the shooting.

U.S. Marshals caught Jones in Minneapolis on July 15, 2025, after a months-long search. The arrest did not come easily as Jones fought a physical struggle with police officers before being subdued unharmed. She is now held in the state of Minnesota, to be transported back to Shelby County, Tennessee, where she will be officially charged. Court documents indicate Jones has had past encounters with the law, including a shoplifting arrest in October of 2024 and a withdrawn charge of aggravated assault in connection with a domestic incident. A bench warrant for the missed court appearance in the shoplifting case assisted police in finding her.

“The U.S. Marshals Service’s partnership with the Memphis Police Department is strong and effective,”

said U.S. Marshal Tyreece Miller.

“Our collaboration continues to bring violent offenders to justice.”

In the state of Tennessee, aid to first-degree murder involves knowingly helping or participating in the act of a killing without actually committing the killing. For instance, Jones may have assisted in planning the crime, furnished the means, or served as a lookout. Specifics of how exactly she assisted are not released, leaving certain avenues of how she was involved in the case and if anyone else assisted yet to be explored. MPD and the prosecutors continued to investigate, no motive having been officially substantiated.

Patrick Houston Jr.’s murder brings the focus back to Memphis’s inability to manage violent crime. Memphis itself counted 398 killings in 2024, high in the per-capita rankings of the country. The Imogene Heights neighborhood of the shooting has had violent incidents, prompting neighborhood groups like Ceasefire Memphis to address the crisis. Big-name cases like the recent one draw attention to the police response and the safety itself in particular.

The Memphis music scene mourned Houston Jr. deeply. A memorial service was held on January 25, 2025, at M.J. Edwards Funeral Home, followed by burial at Memphis Memory Gardens. Project Pat, who has transitioned into prison ministry and runs the Go Foundation for incarcerated individuals, has remained publicly silent on the arrest, though he posted a reflective message on Instagram:

“Boy i thank God for another day”

While Jones faces extradition, the case is far from sealed. Authorities have yet to rule out future arrests and court filings may soon specify her role and potential aids. The trial likely will draw much attention, given the ramifications of Project Pat’s cultural impact as much as the broader implications for Memphis in the war on guns.

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