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In a shocking turn of events, the suspect in the tragic shooting at Brown University on Saturday, which resulted in the deaths of two students and injuries to nine others, has been found dead in a storage unit in New Hampshire. Authorities identify the suspect as Claudio Manuel Neves Valente, a 48-year-old man believed to have also fatally shot MIT physics professor Nuno F.G. Loureiro in his home earlier this week. As investigations continue, police have stated that they currently lack a clear motive for either of the shootings.
Valente, who attended Brown University as a graduate student in physics in 2000, dropped out after a year and re-entered the United States in 2017. According to police reports, he allegedly studied in Portugal alongside the MIT professor he later killed. A witness reported seeing Valente in a bathroom at Brown University, following him out and chasing him to his vehicle just hours before the shooting occurred. This lead helped police connect Valente to the crime, as the witness later posted about the incident on Reddit.
With the investigation ongoing, questions are arising regarding the political response to these tragic events and the reactions from both the university and law enforcement. In a related development, former President Donald Trump announced the suspension of the green card lottery program that had previously allowed Valente to enter the U.S.
Today marks the deadline for the U.S. Justice Department to release documents related to the life and death of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Last month, Trump signed a law mandating the attorney general to disclose information concerning individuals connected to Epstein’s criminal activities. Expectations are high regarding what this release may entail.
NPR's Stephen Fowler suggests that this release might not be the conclusion of the Epstein saga, especially given the Trump administration's handling of the matter over the past year. Republican Representative Thomas Massie from Kentucky has shared a 14-minute video discussing his hopes for the release, highlighting that he expects the names of at least 20 men accused of sex crimes to be included. However, Fowler notes that the attorney general has the discretion to redact certain details, and Congress is not in session today to respond immediately.
In a significant shift, the board of the renowned John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., voted unanimously to rename the institution to include Trump's name. This decision was announced by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt on social media, and the change has already been reflected on the center's website.
Critics of the name change argue that dissenting opinions were stifled during the vote and that such a significant alteration requires congressional approval. NPR's Andrew Limbong noted that Trump largely ignored the center during his first term but has made it clear that he seeks to exert control over it now. Earlier this year, he appointed himself as chair of the board, replacing former chair David Rubenstein and dismissing all members appointed by former President Joe Biden.
As the holiday season approaches, it’s important to be aware of the increased risk of heart attack and stroke during festive gatherings. The indulgent foods and alcohol often served can put a strain on the heart, while studies indicate that excessive sodium intake can elevate blood pressure, forcing the heart to work harder.
Warning signs to watch for include a sudden feeling of heavy pressure in the chest or unexpected shortness of breath. Women may experience different symptoms compared to men, such as lightheadedness or pain in the jaw, neck, or back. If you notice sudden facial drooping, difficulty speaking, or weakness in one arm or leg, it’s crucial to call 911 immediately.
Check out NPR's recommendations for the weekend:
Movies: "Avatar: Fire and Ash" brings over three hours of stunning visuals, though NPR's Bob Mondello notes potential repetitiveness. TV: In "Heated Rivalry," a secret romance unfolds between rival hockey players Shane Hollander and Ilya Rozanov. Books: Zadie Smith’s essay collection "Dead and Alive" delves into climate change and generational divides. Music: Discover the best classical albums of 2025 with NPR's Tom Huizenga. Theater: Tom Felton reprises his role as Draco Malfoy in "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child," attracting fans from across the country. Food: Washington Post's new food critic, Elazar Sontag, discusses his decision to dine publicly rather than anonymously. Quiz: Test your knowledge with the final news quiz of the year!Reflecting on a remarkable moment from the past, Dave Willat recalls being just 11 years old when he participated in an unexpected recording session for the iconic soundtrack of "A Charlie Brown Christmas." Now at 72, he shares his memories with NPR.
In other news, the viral cheese pull trend seen in social media videos has sparked curiosity about whether it can help revitalize America's chain restaurants. Additionally, Pope Leo has appointed Bishop Ronald A. Hicks of Joliet, Illinois, known for his support of Pope Francis's inclusive views, to lead the Archdiocese of New York, succeeding Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who served for 16 years.
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