We've seen plenty of wild goose chases over the years. In this one, though, the goose wanted absolutely nothing to do with it.

A wanted drug suspect's arrest in Georgia took an unexpected turn when the SUV he was driving ended up perched on top of a Sandy Springs Police patrol vehicle during an operation involving local officers and federal agents.

According to the Sandy Springs Police Department, officers with its Street Crimes Unit were assisting the Homeland Security Investigations Atlanta Field Office on July 17 with the apprehension of a suspect wanted on Fulton County drug charges involving methamphetamine and cocaine. Authorities said the suspect also has ties to a larger criminal organization and is facing federal charges.

Police said officers attempted to safely box in the suspect's vehicle near 8101 Colquitt Road. During the maneuver, the SUV struck a concrete barrier, causing its rear end to lift into the air and land on top of a Sandy Springs Police patrol vehicle.

Watch the Arrest Unfold

The video shows officers moving in around the suspect's vehicle before it strikes the barrier and climbs onto the front of the patrol cruiser. Even with the SUV perched on top of the police vehicle, the driver opened the door, climbed out, and attempted to flee on foot. Officers quickly chased him down and took him into custody without further incident.

Despite the unusual collision and foot chase, police said no officers or members of the public were injured. Sandy Springs Police shared the video with the tongue-in-cheek caption, "Hey…You Can't Park There."

Because the operation involved a broader federal investigation, the department directed requests for additional information about the federal charges to Homeland Security Investigations.

Viewers React to the Unusual Arrest

The video quickly attracted attention online, with many viewers expressing disbelief that the driver still attempted to run after his SUV ended up on top of a police cruiser. Others repeated the department's "You Can't Park There" joke or imagined how officers might explain the damage to the patrol vehicle.

Many commenters praised officers for quickly taking the suspect into custody without anyone being injured. An unexpected goose wandering near the scene also became an unlikely star of the comments, with several viewers joking that the bird narrowly avoided becoming involved in the operation and another suggesting it had missed an opportunity to deploy "less than lethal."

Other commenters raised questions about the damage to the patrol vehicle and how much it might cost to repair. While the SUV balanced on top of the police cruiser generated plenty of jokes online, the most important outcome was that officers safely apprehended the suspect without injuries to police or bystanders.

A strange Chevrolet barn find has surfaced, looking like someone combined a square-body dually, a Suburban, and a medium-duty work truck into one enormous custom creation. The heavily modified rig was discovered almost by accident after appearing in the background of an unrelated Marketplace listing.

YouTuber Brad Buys spotted the truck behind a New Holland mower that was actually being advertised for sale and immediately started asking questions. The unusual Chevy itself wasn’t listed, but after some discussion surrounding what appeared to be an estate-sale situation, Brad ended up buying it anyway.

Up close, the mystery only deepened. The truck has four doors, a short pickup-style bed integrated into the cab, huge dual rear wheels, oversized steel bumpers, air suspension hardware, and what appears to be a Chevrolet 454 big-block V8 under the hood.

Exactly what it started life as remains unclear from the first video. Clues inside suggest a Suburban may have donated at least part of the body, while viewers have proposed everything from a modified Suburban on a C60 or C70 chassis to a heavily reworked medium-duty Chevrolet truck wearing custom bodywork.

It Looks Like a Crew-Cab Dually That Chevrolet Never Built

At first glance, the truck resembles an aggressively customized square-body Chevrolet crew cab with a shortened bed. A closer inspection reveals that the bed structure appears to be integrated directly into the body, suggesting someone performed extensive fabrication rather than simply bolting a pickup box behind a factory cab.

The tailgate has been shaved, and the inside of the bed appears to use components that may have originated from another body style. Some viewers believe the rear portion of a Suburban was cut down and converted into a pickup bed, although that theory has not yet been officially confirmed by the builder.

The interior adds more evidence to the Suburban theory. A visible Suburban SLE badge appears inside, and Brad noted that the seating and trim could have been sourced from one as well.

A 454 Big-Block Is Hiding Under the Hood

The seller apparently believed the truck had a 350 small-block Chevy, but opening the hood revealed something considerably larger. Brad identified the engine as a 454-cubic-inch big-block V8, although its exact specification and history remain unknown.

The truck had reportedly been sitting for around five years before being recovered. Brad attempted to supply electrical power using a booster, briefly bringing some systems to life, including what sounded like the onboard compressor for the rear airbags.

The engine itself did not crank during the initial attempt, likely because of dead batteries, corroded terminals, or poor electrical connections. Brad plans to install fresh batteries and determine whether the big-block can be revived in a future installment.

The Chassis May Be the Biggest Clue

Several viewers familiar with older Chevrolet commercial trucks believe the mystery vehicle may sit on a C60- or C70-series medium-duty chassis. Those trucks could be fitted with big-block engines and much heavier-duty running gear than a typical pickup or Suburban, potentially explaining the massive stance and enormous wheels.

Other commenters suggested someone may have fitted a heavily modified Suburban body onto one of those larger commercial chassis. That theory would account for the Suburban interior pieces, four-door body, medium-duty proportions, and custom dually rear section.

For now, however, those remain educated guesses rather than confirmed facts. Brad says he has since located the person who originally built the truck around 25 years ago and has apparently learned the full story, but those details are being saved for the next video.

Years of Dirt Hide a Surprisingly Solid Custom Build

Despite sitting for years, the truck appears to have survived reasonably well. A pressure wash removed much of the accumulated grime and revealed faded but potentially salvageable paint underneath.

There are some rust spots and damaged areas around the rockers, but Brad believes much of the exterior could improve significantly with polishing and relatively limited bodywork. The interior also appears surprisingly complete considering the truck’s age and unusual construction.

Other details point to its previous life as a custom or show-oriented build. It has an aftermarket stereo, an onboard air compressor, rear helper bags, massive custom bumpers, shaved bodywork, and evidence of additional electronic equipment inside.

Whatever It Is, Someone Put Serious Work Into It

The most interesting part of this barn find may ultimately be the craftsmanship and imagination behind it. Someone spent considerable time transforming multiple Chevrolet ideas into one enormous machine that looks vaguely factory-built from a distance but increasingly strange the closer you examine it.

Whether it began as a Suburban, a C60, a C70, or some combination of all three should become clearer once its original builder explains the story. Until then, the best description may simply be a square-body Chevrolet fever dream with a 454, dually wheels, and enough custom fabrication to confuse everyone who looks at it.

The good news is that Brad intends to get it running, finish cleaning it up, and eventually put it back on the road. Whatever this thing actually is, it definitely deserves another chance to move under its own power.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Dodge Charger nameplate, one that has become synonymous with the muscle car segment and American performance cars. It's also one that many Americans thought would never see combustion power again after the launch of the Dodge Charger Daytona EV.

However, with Dodge not wanting the Ford Mustang to rule the muscle car roost, plans changed. Reports emerged in 2023 that a new inline-six engine would be made available in a new Charger Sixpack, and the car was soon introduced in 2025 for the 2026 model year.

While it wasn't a V8 engine, the inline-six was welcomed massively by enthusiasts. A special edition Hustle Stuff Drag Pack with a supercharged Hemi V8 was launched in October 2025. When it comes to the regular production version, it looks like Dodge has another trick up its sleeve.

It looks like a more powerful Dodge Charger, complete with ICE power, is now on the way. We do know that this will not have a big V8 under the hood like the special edition. But we also know it will offer more power and performance, and it is something that enthusiasts are going to love.

What We Know About the Upcoming Dodge Charger

The new car will be revealed at the MotorTrend Roadkill Nights event, and it's set to be the most potent version of the inline-six-powered muscle car seen so far. At the time of writing, the standard engine is a 3.0-liter Hurricane inline-six, boosted by two turbochargers to make up for the lack of the extra two cylinders.

Currently, the inline-six produces 420hp and 468lb-ft of torque. This compares to the 550hp and 531lb-ft of torque offered in the Scat Pack version. But this latest edition that is due for unveiling is expected to push the Hurricane inline-six to an even bigger power number that is likely to go well beyond the 600hp mark. Dodge itself is saying that it will be "the most powerful Sixpack-powered Charger yet."

The Dodge Charger Daytona EV, for comparison, has 670hp on offer. It is unlikely that this new Sixpack version will produce quite the same number, but it might push its electrified cousin pretty close. It is clear that Dodge has its eye on the Ford Mustang, which has almost had an untroubled run over the last couple of years as the flagship American muscle car.

Dodge Needs To Excite Customers Into Buying the Charger

A potential new engine in the Dodge Charger has come at exactly the right time for the muscle car. At the time of writing, CarEdge lists the Charger as the slowest-selling vehicle in the United States. This is in sharp contrast to its once segment-leading status. The company is sitting on a 385-day supply of the muscle cars, with 10,800 units at dealerships as of July 2026.

Over the last montha nd a half, less than 1,300 examples of the muscle car have been shifted from those dealerships. So it's clear something needs to be done to get people excited about the car again. A Hellcat V8 is rumored to be on the way for 2028, so if this latest edition of the Sixpack Charger doesn't create the magic, perhaps we will have to wait a little longer to see the muscle car hit some good form.

Hyundai plant workers are planning to intensify their strike over concerns that cost-effective humanoid robots could eventually threaten their jobs.

The protest is not just about higher wages or Hyundai's introduction of robots at its Ulsan plant in South Korea, where many U.S.-bound vehicles are built.

Instead, the union, which represents 39,668 workers, is concerned that increased automation will reduce working hours. Because employees are paid by the hour, that could also reduce their income.

While the strike is expected to put pressure on the supply chain, a vehicle shortage is not currently anticipated. However, it remains to be seen whether sustained reductions in workers' hours could eventually affect vehicle production and supply.

Thousands of Hyundai Workers Walk Out Early

According to a report by TopSpeed, the workers at Hyundai's Ulsan production complex began ending their shifts early on July 13. From July 20, however, the union escalated the action by launching a four-hour strike.

The move came after 15 rounds of negotiations failed to produce an agreement. It also coincides with reports that Hyundai plans to deploy more than 25,000 Atlas humanoid robots across Hyundai and Kia factories. The robots are built by Boston Dynamics, a company Hyundai is in the process of acquiring.

Standing over six feet tall and capable of lifting more than 100 pounds, the Atlas robot is expected to debut at Hyundai's Metaplant America factory in Georgia in 2028 before being introduced at other facilities.

Hyundai builds many vehicles for the U.S. market at its Ulsan complex, including the Tucson, Santa Fe, Sonata, and Ioniq models. While the company has not said which vehicles could be affected by the strike, production could eventually decline if reduced working hours continue.

What Do the Workers Say?

Much of the union's concern centers on how affordable the Atlas robot could become in the future, rather than its current capabilities. Each unit costs an estimated $130,000, and a Samsung Securities analyst believes it could recover that cost in about two years.

If robots eventually become cheaper to operate than employing human workers, companies could have a strong financial incentive to automate more jobs. As a result, the union's demands go beyond higher wages.

Workers want a fixed salary instead of hourly pay so their income is not reduced if automation leads to shorter shifts. They are also seeking larger bonuses and an increase in the retirement age from 60 to 65 to provide greater financial security as robots become more common in the workplace.

Will It Affect the Supply of Hyundai Vehicles?

Previous strikes at Hyundai have generally caused only minor disruptions, but this one is different because it centers on concerns over automation rather than just wages.

A prolonged strike could eventually reduce output at the Ulsan plant, although no immediate impact on vehicle availability is expected.

As more automakers invest in humanoid robots and factory automation, similar labor disputes could become increasingly common across the industry.

Manual transmissions really do feel like a dying breed. Fewer and fewer cars are being launched with the classic stick shift, and the performance car segment is one of those that has been hit hard. But there are still some final glowing manual embers, and a new one might be coming from McLaren.

Remember that Pagani has recently produced manual transmission supercars, in the form of the Utopia and the Huayra 70 Derecho. The Hennessey Venom F5-M Roadster has over 2,000hp and a manual transmission, and you, of course, have the likes of the latest Nissan Z sports car, as well as the Lotus Emira.

But now McLaren has come out all guns blazing and produced its own new supercar with a manual transmission. Enter the McLaren Project 50, a car that is set to be a limited-edition hypercar, complete with a stick shift allowing for full manual control.

At the time of writing, details are quite scarce on the new manual McLaren. Because the British manufacturer hasn't actually issued any details yet. But what we do know from sources such as The Supercar Blog is that it is set to make its global debut at The Quail this August.

What We Know About the New McLaren Project 50

While details are scarce, we do know a few things about this new McLaren. The car is currently going by the name of Project 50, so at launch it could be the McLaren P50. It will follow on from the W1 hypercar, which has earned overwhelmingly positive reviews since McLaren launched it.

The P50, however, could take things to the next level. The W1 already costs $2 million, making it a very expensive machine. But the new P50 could cost more, well over $2 million, and with fewer than 100 likely to be built, it will also be highly exclusive. The Supercar Blog offered a few precious details on the new car, but looking around, the rumors do look to have some truth behind them.

Enthusiasts on the McLaren Life forums have been talking about a possible three-pedal McLaren hypercar for months. On the German Car Forum, insiders have actually been speculating about the P50 since early 2026. There is no smoke without fire, so it appears that something is happening behind the scenes at the British performance car company.

When Will We See the New McLaren P50?

If the rumors are to be believed, then we won't have to wait long before the new McLaren P50 is unveiled to the public. The Supercar Blog also reported that the reveal of the car will take place during Monterey Car Week, specifically during The Quail event that takes place on August 14th in California. We must stress that this has to be taken with a pinch of salt until we get more information on the car.

Should it really happen, however, it would be the first manual transmission McLaren since the F1 of 1992 to 1998, which was also the first McLaren production car to have a manual. Prior to that, the only other manual McLaren road car was the prototype McLaren M6GT, Bruce McLaren's vision of what a road car should be. In the end, just three prototypes of that car were built.

Drivers often think about speeding, distracted driving, and poor weather as the biggest threats on the road. Far less attention is paid to what vehicles are carrying.

Yet a recent crash in Orange County demonstrated how unsecured cargo can instantly transform an ordinary traffic collision into a potentially fatal event.

Long metal pipes being transported on a pickup truck ended up piercing a nearby sedan after a two-vehicle crash, creating a scene that emergency responders described as both dramatic and remarkably fortunate.

Although the damage to the car appeared catastrophic, authorities reported only minor injuries.

The Crash That Could Have Ended Much Differently 

According to California Highway Patrol's Santa Ana office, the collision involved a pickup truck transporting metal pipes and a sedan. During the impact, several of the pipes broke free and drove through the sedan's rear window, extending into the passenger compartment.

Photographs from the scene show the pipes stretching through much of the vehicle's interior, underscoring how narrowly the occupants escaped far more serious harm. Emergency crews responded quickly, treated those involved, and transported injured occupants for medical evaluation. Officials said the injuries were considered minor despite the severe-looking damage.

Investigators continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Why Unsecured Cargo Is Such a Serious Safety Concern

Incidents involving loose or improperly secured loads are uncommon compared to everyday crashes, but they often result in especially dangerous situations. Heavy construction materials, including metal pipes, lumber, and similar items, can continue moving forward during a collision if they are not adequately restrained.

The Orange County crash serves as a vivid example of how quickly cargo can become a hazard when vehicles are involved in an impact. Even relatively low-speed collisions can generate enough force for unsecured materials to penetrate another vehicle, placing occupants at significant risk.

Safety experts routinely recommend that drivers transporting oversized or heavy materials ensure every item is properly secured before beginning a trip and periodically check that the load remains stable while driving.

A Close Call With an Important Lesson

While the images from the crash have drawn widespread attention, the most significant outcome is that everyone involved survived. Given the way the metal pipes entered the sedan, the incident could easily have resulted in life-threatening injuries.

The crash is a reminder that cargo security is more than a legal requirement. It is an essential part of road safety. Taking the time to secure construction materials or other heavy items properly can help prevent them from becoming dangerous projectiles if a collision occurs.

For motorists, the incident also reinforces the value of remaining alert around vehicles carrying long or oversized loads. Although no driver can eliminate every risk on the road, properly secured cargo can make the difference and prevent a frightening accident and a devastating tragedy.

The use of drones across various industries has grown significantly over the past decade. But regardless of their size, most share one major drawback- they are loud and easy to spot.

That lack of stealth can be a problem in applications such as wildlife conservation, where drones used in forests can disturb animals simply because of their noise and visibility.

Now, however, engineers at Northwestern University have developed a drone that almost disappears, making it remarkably difficult to detect while in flight.

Roughly the size of an adult's palm, the Phantom Twist drone spins at up to 25 revolutions per second, creating an optical illusion that makes it extremely challenging for the human eye to see.

Motion Blur Does the Trick

According to a report by Northwestern University, the Phantom Twist spins so quickly that the human eye struggles to see it clearly. The effect is similar to a fan. When it is switched off, the blades are easy to see, but once it is running at high speed, the rapid rotation makes the individual blades almost impossible to distinguish.

The drone could eventually be adapted for a wide range of applications, from wildlife monitoring to environmental surveys. While it does not become truly invisible, its rapid spinning creates a hazy appearance that makes it much more difficult for observers to recognize it as a drone.

Michael Rubenstein, the associate professor who led the project, said:

“Most efforts to hide drones focus on making them look like their surroundings. Instead, we asked whether we could design the drone itself around the way humans perceive motion. This idea of low visibility through persistent motion is something few people have explored.”

Northwestern co-author Emma Alexander said:

“The human eye takes time to accumulate signals, roughly analogous to the exposure time of a camera. When an object spins quickly, we perceive it as blurring out and losing distinct features. Because this new drone is almost entirely transparent, its few opaque components are visually averaged with the background for an overall appearance of a slight haze.”

A Less Noticeable Drone Keeps Everything as Is

According to the report, drones used for tasks such as wildlife monitoring can easily alarm animals and attract attention. The same applies to people.

Someone who notices a drone is more likely to change their behavior, making it harder to observe situations naturally. A drone that is much harder to notice could carry out these jobs without causing as much disturbance.

To achieve this, Northwestern engineers redesigned the drone rather than trying to camouflage it. The Phantom Twist uses a single motor and propeller, with the propeller spinning in one direction while the rest of the drone rotates the other way. Rubenstein added:

“For a typical quadrotor drone, the propellers are spinning, but the robot is stationary. So, you still see its body. For our drone, the whole thing is rotating, so there are no stationary parts.”

The Northwestern team used artificial intelligence to test around 20,000 drone designs, rearranging key components to find a design that was both stable in flight and difficult to see.

They then compared the best designs against real-world backgrounds using a model of human vision before refining them further to create the Phantom Twist.

“The design process was fully automated,” Rubenstein said. “Then, when we were confident that a drone met all our criteria, we built it.”

The final design places the drone's components at different heights and angles so they don't overlap as it spins. Instead of forming a clear shape, the drone appears as a faint, blurry cloud that is much harder to notice.

However, there is scope for further improvement because the propeller makes a considerable amount of noise, while the drone's support rods and wires have been left exposed. The team plans to design future iterations with transparent materials to make the Phantom Twist less noticeable during flight than it already is.

The prototype does not appear to include an onboard camera, with the project focused instead on demonstrating the low-visibility design.

Although the Phantom Twist is not being developed specifically for surveillance, quieter and less visible future versions could have potential law enforcement applications. Whether that becomes a reality remains to be seen.

 

Late-night joyrides and wheelies have a long, complicated history, and not exactly a graceful one. Every so often a rider decides the empty street in front of them is basically a runway, and every so often that decision goes sideways in the worst way. That is exactly what happened early Sunday morning in San Antonio, where a motorcyclist attempting a wheelie with a passenger on board slammed into a car and now sits in critical condition.

According to KENS 5, the crash happened near the intersection of Alamo and Jones Street just before 2 a.m. The motorcyclist was reportedly popping a wheelie, meaning he had a passenger on the back and the front wheel off the ground, when the bike collided with a vehicle. It is the kind of stunt that looks impressive for about three seconds and can end a life in the fourth.

What makes this story stand out isn't just the crash itself, but what happened right after. The passenger who was riding along reportedly took off running before officers arrived, leaving the injured rider behind. Meanwhile, the driver of the other car stayed put and cooperated with police. That contrast alone tells you a lot about how differently people react when things go wrong in a split second.

Thankfully, no one else was hurt in the crash, and police are still working to track down the passenger who fled. Here's a closer look at what we know so far, and why this kind of incident keeps showing up in headlines across the country.

What Happened on Alamo and Jones Street

 
Police say the motorcyclist was performing a wheelie with a passenger on the back when the bike struck a car in the roadway. The rider was rushed to the hospital in critical condition.

Investigators have not released additional details about the make or model of either vehicle involved, and no cause beyond the stunt itself has been confirmed publicly.

The Passenger Who Ran

One of the more curious details here is that the passenger fled the scene before police arrived. Whether that was panic, fear of legal trouble, or something else entirely, officers are now actively searching for that individual.

Running from a crash scene rarely improves anyone's situation, and it typically just adds another chapter to the investigation.

Why Wheelies Keep Making Headlines

Wheelies have been part of motorcycle culture for decades, showing up everywhere from small-town parking lots to viral social media clips. They can look effortless in the hands of an experienced rider on a closed course.

On an open city street at 2 a.m., with a passenger on board and zero margin for error, the math changes fast. Speed, balance, traffic, and reaction time all have to line up perfectly, and even then there is no guarantee.

Moving Forward

San Antonio police continue to investigate the crash and are asking anyone with information about the passenger's identity or whereabouts to come forward.

The motorcyclist's condition has not been updated publicly since the crash.

Las Vegas has never been short on stories that make you shake your head, and this one adds to the pile. Police say a driver who'd had a bit too much of something got behind the wheel, made a turn they shouldn't have made the way they made it, and ended up striking a man riding an e-bike in a marked crosswalk. The rider was hurt badly enough to be hospitalized, and the driver is now facing charges related to impaired driving.

The crash happened at the intersection of Pecos Road and Cheyenne Avenue in North Las Vegas, an intersection that, like most intersections in a city built around wide arterial roads and heavy traffic, sees its fair share of turning movements every single day.

Most of the time those turns go off without a hitch. This time, they didn't.

If you've spent any real time around cars, you already know that turning movements are where a huge chunk of pedestrian and cyclist collisions happen. A driver's attention is split between oncoming traffic, the gap they're trying to find, and whatever else is competing for their brain space at that exact moment. Add impairment into that mix and the odds of catching a crosswalk user in your peripheral vision drop fast. It's not a new problem, but it's one that keeps showing up in police blotters across the country, Vegas included.

We'll get into what happened, why crosswalk turning crashes are so persistent, and what this means for the growing e-bike crowd sharing the road with everyone else.

What LVMPD Says Happened

According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the vehicle was headed northbound on Pecos Road and turning east onto Cheyenne Avenue when it struck an adult male riding an e-bike in the crosswalk. The rider suffered serious injuries and was taken to the hospital.

His condition hadn't been released as of this writing. Officers determined the driver was impaired and made an arrest at the scene. Eastbound Cheyenne was shut down while police worked the crash.

Why Turning Crashes Keep Catching Cyclists Off Guard

Here's the thing about crosswalks at intersections like this one: they're designed to be predictable, but predictability only works if the driver is actually looking. A driver making a right or left turn is often scanning for a gap in cross traffic rather than checking the crosswalk directly in their path.

Throw alcohol or drugs into that equation and reaction time and peripheral awareness both take a hit. It's a bad combination that shows up in crash reports far more often than anyone would like.

E-Bikes Are Everywhere Now, and the Rules Haven't Fully Caught Up

E-bikes have exploded in popularity over the last several years, giving riders speeds closer to scooters or mopeds while often being treated legally like regular bicycles. That mismatch means drivers aren't always adjusting their expectations for how fast something in a crosswalk might actually be moving.

It's worth keeping in mind next time you're behind the wheel making a turn, whether you're in a work truck or your weekend cruiser.

No further information, including name or photos, have been released for the impaired driver or the e-biker rider in this story. 

Some things are worth fighting for. A parking spot in Manhattan's East Village apparently made that list for at least two guys last Tuesday, and the results were caught on video for the whole internet to enjoy. Anyone who has ever circled a city block for twenty minutes looking for a spot knows the frustration is real, but most of us stop short of turning it into a sidewalk sparring match.

The setup, according to Fox News, is simple enough. A skateboarder and a buddy were holding a parking spot open, presumably for a friend still en route. A Mercedes rolled up and decided that "reserved by skateboarder" wasn't a real designation, and tried to pull in anyway. That disagreement over curb real estate is what kicked off one of the more chaotic viral clips to come out of New York City this summer.

What followed was not exactly a technical clinic. The skater reportedly cracked the Mercedes with his board a couple of times before winging it at the vehicle entirely, which is a bold way to treat your primary mode of transportation. The driver hopped out, grabbed the board off the ground, and swung it back at the skater, a move that escalated things from "heated argument" to "actual fight" in about two seconds flat.

From there it got messy in the way these things usually do. Neither combatant looked like they had much of a background in boxing, throwing what can generously be described as soft punches and a few kicks before both men went down to the pavement together. A woman who was with the Mercedes driver tried to get them to stop, and the two ignored her completely, because that's apparently how these things go once pride gets involved.

The Skateboard Becomes the Main Weapon

insane fight broke out on saint marks in front of me today… #nyc @whatisny pic.twitter.com/0pYneVIUtk

— Michael O’Hara (@michael_ohara00) July 15, 2026

Once the fight resumed, the skater got on top, landed at least one real punch, then let the driver back up. That's when the board came out again, and this time it connected solidly with the driver's head. It was reportedly the hardest shot landed by either man in the whole scuffle, and it was quickly followed by a choke hold that finally brought things to an end.

The camera operator, who had been filming the whole ordeal, wandered over to check out the Mercedes afterward and found the windshield smashed to pieces.

What the NYPD Says Happened

A police spokesperson confirmed to the Post that the driver had indeed been trying to park his Mercedes when the confrontation broke out. As of Saturday afternoon, police were still searching for the skateboarder, who left the scene before anyone in uniform showed up.

The driver was taken to a local hospital and is reportedly in stable condition.

No Arrests, Just a Cracked Windshield and a Sore Head

Despite the shattered glass and the skateboard-to-the-skull finale, no arrests have been made in connection with the fight. It's a reminder that in a city where parking is basically a contact sport already, sometimes the fight for a spot turns literal.

City drivers everywhere can probably relate to the frustration that started this whole thing, even if most would agree the Mercedes windshield didn't need to become collateral damage.

A routine traffic stop in Marco Island quickly turned into a conversation that has captured the attention of thousands online after a 19-year-old driver offered an emotional explanation for why she was speeding. What began as a seemingly straightforward stop soon took an unexpected direction, with the responding officer carefully listening before deciding there was more to the story.

A video released by the Marco Island Police Department shows the young woman immediately telling the officer she was rushing to help her grandmother, who she believed was experiencing a medical emergency. Rather than interrupting her, the officer calmly let her explain the situation while asking a few follow-up questions.

At first, the exchange appeared headed toward a sympathetic outcome. The officer maintained a professional tone throughout the encounter, and nothing about the stop suggested it would become the kind of police video that would later spread across the internet.

But as the conversation continued, the officer decided to look a little deeper before making his final decision. That choice ultimately changed the course of the traffic stop and sparked a lively debate online, with viewers divided over whether he made the right call.

One Explanation Changed the Entire Traffic Stop

The video shows what appears to be a routine traffic stop, as the officer standing by the driver's window greeted the 19-year-old with a simple, "Hi, how are you doing today?" Before he could ask why she had been stopped, the young woman immediately tried to explain herself.

She told the officer she had been speeding because her grandmother had suffered what she initially described as a heart attack about 30 minutes earlier. According to the driver, she was on her way to pick her grandmother up so she could take her to a doctor in Fort Myers. She even offered to show the officer what she described as credentials while apologizing for driving too fast.

Rather than dismissing her explanation, the officer calmly asked a series of questions about the situation. He wanted to know whether emergency medical services had been called and if paramedics were already with her grandmother. The driver replied that EMS had been contacted, but said her grandmother wanted her, not an ambulance, to take her to her specialist.

As the conversation continued, the explanation became less straightforward. The driver clarified that her grandmother hadn't actually suffered a heart attack but instead had ongoing heart problems and wore a heart monitor that alerted family members when something was wrong.

She apologized again for speeding, explaining that she had only begun driving faster after crossing the bridge because she was trying to get there as quickly as possible.

Before returning to his patrol car, the officer reminded her that the posted speed limit was 35 mph and told her he had recorded her traveling at 61 mph. Back inside his cruiser, he reflected on the conversation, noting that the explanation had changed as the stop unfolded, prompting him to take a closer look before deciding how to handle the situation.

The Officer Was Ready To Give a Warning Until He Checked Her Driving History

After listening to the driver's explanation and taking a few moments to review the stop from his patrol car, the officer returned with an admission that likely surprised the young woman. He told her he had seriously considered letting her off with a warning before deciding to take a closer look at her driving record.

What he found changed his mind.

The officer explained that the 19-year-old had already been stopped for speeding nine times despite having only been driving for a relatively short period. He also told her her license had previously been suspended for 30 days and warned that she was on track to lose it again if her driving habits didn't change.

He went on to explain that she had already used all three of the Basic Driver Improvement courses available to Florida drivers, leaving her with fewer options if additional violations were added to her record. Because of that history, he said he couldn't justify issuing another warning and instead cited her for driving 61 mph in a 35 mph zone over the Jolly Bridge.

Even after issuing the citation, the officer kept the conversation focused on the bigger picture rather than the ticket itself. He encouraged the young driver to slow down, reminding her that she had her whole life ahead of her and that repeatedly speeding could eventually cost her the privilege of driving altogether.

The Video Sparked a Debate Beyond the Speeding Ticket

The citation wasn't the only part of the encounter that captured people's attention. Once the Marco Island Police Department released body camera footage, it was widely posted on social media. Viewers began dissecting every stage of the traffic stop, from the driver's explanation to the officer's decision to issue a ticket rather than a warning.

Many praised the officer for remaining calm throughout the encounter. Rather than becoming confrontational, he listened to the driver's explanation, asked follow-up questions, and explained exactly why her driving history ultimately influenced his decision. Several viewers said that a level-headed approach made the outcome easier to understand, even if they sympathized with the driver's situation.

The driver's explanation didn't convince others. Comments such as, "How she having a heart attack but able to wait on you to give her a ride to the ER. Lmao," and "Dayum. 9. She needs to be racing cars at this point," reflected the skepticism many people expressed after watching the full video. Some also shared humorous stories about the excuses they had heard—or even used themselves—during traffic stops.

Whether viewers sided with the officer or sympathized with the young driver, one part of the encounter stood out. Instead of ending the stop with only a citation, the officer closed with advice he hoped would prevent future violations, reminding the 19-year-old that slowing down now could save her from much bigger consequences later.

Most of us worry about raccoons getting into the garbage or a possum finding its way into the garage. Laura Conrad and her husband have a bigger problem. There's a family of coyotes that has apparently set up permanent residence directly underneath their mobile home in Rancho Cucamonga, and after three to four weeks of phone calls and pleading, nobody has managed to get them out.

If you've ever had a squirrel in the attic, you know how unsettling it can be to hear scratching and movement somewhere you can't see. Now imagine that sound coming from beneath your floor, and instead of a squirrel, it's a den of wild coyotes staring back at you through the dark when you shine a flashlight underneath the house. That's the reality Laura says she's been living with, and she's not just dealing with noise. She says the animals have caused damage to the underside of her home and left her with bug bites from her own efforts to flush them out.

What makes this one particularly rough is the timing. Laura is currently caring for her husband, who just returned home from the hospital, all while trying to figure out how to get a den of coyotes to relocate on their own accord, which, as it turns out, is not something they're eager to do. She's tried the usual home remedies too, wolf urine, vinegar, mothballs, you name it. According to her, none of it has worked so far.

The frustrating part of this story is less about the coyotes and more about the runaround Laura has gotten trying to get anyone to actually address it. She lives in a senior community, Alta Laguna, where coyote sightings are apparently common enough that nobody bats an eye. But a coyote passing through your yard is a very different problem than a coyote family taking up residence under your home.

Who's Actually Responsible Here

Laura says park management told her the issue is her responsibility since she owns her mobile home rather than rents it. That's a tough answer to hear when you're dealing with wildlife damage on a property you don't fully control the land under.

Meanwhile, Rancho Cucamonga's Animal Services Department says the property management company needs to formally report the den to them and grant access so they can assess the situation. As of KTLA 5's report, that hasn't happened yet.

Why You Can't Just Trap and Move Them Yourself

Here's a wrinkle that surprises a lot of people: in California, it's illegal for a private citizen to trap and relocate a coyote on their own. That job falls to the state, specifically the Department of Fish and Wildlife, who can get involved in certain cases once animal services makes their assessment.

There's also a quieter reason some residents in situations like this hesitate to report a den in the first place. Doing so can sometimes lead to the animals being euthanized rather than relocated, which puts folks in a tough spot when all they want is for the coyotes to move along peacefully.

Where Things Stand Now

For now, Laura is stuck in limbo, not always feeling safe walking in and out of her own front door, waiting on a report that hasn't been filed yet. It's the kind of bureaucratic gridlock that would frustrate anyone, let alone someone already juggling a spouse's recovery at home.

Hopefully this gets some attention and the right people show up to make an assessment soon. Nobody should have to share their crawlspace with a den of wildlife indefinitely.

A mechanic has revealed how a Honda Civic that was traded in suffered a complete loss of its transmission fluid and pinpointed for potential customers and car owners how to spot a leak. The mechanic posted the video on TikTok, where they walked through the Honda's problems.

Robert Wrapson (@robertwrapson) was openly quite excited about getting the Honda Civic on trade-in. The hope had been that they would be able to sell the car on, but a messy leak of all the transmission fluid threatened to put that plan in the trash.

The video showed where the leak was coming from, and it advised other car owners as to how they can spot a transmission leak. There was also a bit of healthy debate, as some viewers of the video discussed whether the repairs to the Civic would be worth it in terms of the car's value.

A transmission leak on any car is going to be concerning. Even more so on a Honda, a company famed for producing some incredibly reliable cars. But this video does at least give you some idea as to what to watch out for and how mechanics might go about fixing the leaks.

How the Transmission Leak on the Honda Civic Was Spotted

@robertwrapson Behind the scenes of taking a car in on trade! #carsales #tradein #cartok #civic #sales ♬ Through The Wire Instrumental - Cliffmakesmusic

“We took this car on trade, this little Civic, nice little car. Doesn't look too bad, but one of the things we didn’t see was this huge leaking mess here,” Wrapson said at the start of the video. The mechanic then walked underneath the car, pointing to the huge mess that was evident, indicating the leak.

The leak was so bad that it was still physically wet. In the video, Wrapson places his hand on the leaking transmission, and we can clearly see the fluid sticking to his finger. As the fluid is still there and that area is still wet, it means the leak is still ongoing, and the Civic is losing all of its transmission fluid. It transpired that the transmission dipstick was missing from the top, so the fluid simply poured out of the transmission.

It transpired that this wasn't the only problem with this Honda Civic. The wheels were too big, as was evident from the fact that they were rubbing against the inner fender and leaving a black mark. Bodywork repairs have clearly been done too, due to the circular spots on the driver's door. All of this added up to repair costs that could be worth up to $5,000 when the mechanic initially expected it to be roughly $1,500.

Is It Worth Repairing the Honda Civic?

The problems facing the mechanic meant there was debate in the comments as to whether the car should even be fixed. One said that the car should be taken straight to auction and sold as is to avoid the mechanic working up any more losses. However, others said that fixing the transmission fluid leak was the only thing that Wrapson really needed to do.

“$15 gasket fix, move on,” one viewer said, stating a new gasket would sort the problems out regarding the leak. “Oh yeah, I know that issue. My transmission is also missing its plug. It won’t stay in; it’s blown 5 times, so I just left it. Honda should never have switched to CVT. That’s what ya get,” another said. Sometimes, it seems repairs needed to a car just aren't worth it. The question is, what would you do?

Most 14-year-olds spend their summer practicing free throws or working on their video game skills. Jory Thomas spent his practicing with a lariat, and it turned out to be the best decision he never knew he'd need. What started as a quiet family camping trip near the Yellowstone River turned into a genuine emergency, reported KTVQ News, and Jory's hobby ended up being the difference between a tragedy and a rescue story people are still talking about.

The Thomas family had set up camp along the river for the summer, the kind of spot where the biggest worry is usually mosquitoes or whether the fish are biting. That changed fast when someone in the family heard a man yelling for help from the water. He was being pulled downstream, struggling to stay above the surface, and clearly in trouble.

Jory didn't hesitate. He grabbed the one tool he happened to have spent the year mastering, his lariat, and took off running along the bank to keep pace with the current. For anyone unfamiliar, a lariat is the rope used in roping cattle, and Jory had been getting serious about the sport, practicing enough that throwing a loop had become second nature to him.

What happened next sounds like something out of an old western, and honestly, that's not far off. Jory lined up his throw while running along uneven riverbank, and landed his loop around the man in the water on his first attempt. He held on and kept the man from being swept further downstream until first responders arrived on scene.

A Skill Built for the Rodeo, Used for a Rescue

Roping cattle and roping a man fighting a river current are obviously different challenges, but the fundamentals carried over. Jory had spent the year building the exact kind of muscle memory that lets you throw accurately under pressure, without time to think it through first.

That's the part of this story that sticks with us. He wasn't out there trying to be a hero. He was just a kid who liked roping, and it happened to be exactly what the moment called for.

Quick Thinking Under Pressure

Running along a riverbank while a current sweeps someone downstream doesn't leave much room for a do-over. Jory said his focus narrowed down to one thing, helping the man, since going into the water himself wasn't really an option.

That kind of clear-headed decision-making is hard to teach, and it's a big reason this story ended the way it did.

A Family That Leans Toward Helping Others

Jory's grandmother said helping people seems to run in the family, and Jory himself felt like he ended up in that exact spot for a reason. Whether you chalk it up to timing, instinct, or just a summer of practice paying off in the most unexpected way, the man made it out of the river safe, and first responders were able to take it from there.

Said one comment on YouTube: "We need more kids like this. Great job, mom and dad!"

It's not every day that a hobby usually reserved for rodeo arenas ends up being the reason someone gets pulled out of a river. Jory's story is a reminder that you never quite know when a skill you've been quietly working on is going to matter.

Anyone who's ever packed up the car for a cross-country road trip knows the drill. Snacks, playlists, a rough plan to hit as many scenic stops as possible, and if you're an animal lover, maybe a pet or two riding shotgun. That's exactly the trip Nikki Bolen and her boyfriend were on, driving back from Los Angeles with a goal of hitting as many national parks as they could along the way. It's the kind of trip a lot of us dream about, windows down, open road, no real schedule to keep.

Things took a turn while the couple was camping outside Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado, reported WCCO - CBS Minnesota. Bolen had brought along her two cats, Louis and a three-year-old domestic shorthair named Farage, for the ride. Waking up around 5:30 in the morning, she found both cats had wandered off from the campsite. Louis turned up nearby, but Farage was nowhere in sight.

What followed was a search that most pet owners can only imagine, and dread. Bolen combed a seven-mile radius around the campsite before facing the kind of decision nobody wants to make on a road trip: call off the search and get back on the highway toward home. Park rangers didn't offer much hope either, telling her the odds of finding a small housecat in that terrain were slim.

Forty days later, Farage turned up. Somebody found her and brought her to the local humane society, and Bolen wasted no time getting back in the car for a 16-hour drive from Minnesota to Colorado to bring her cat home.

A Long Drive Made Worth It

There's something fitting about a road trip cat getting rescued by way of another road trip. Bolen didn't wait for shipping arrangements or ask someone else to handle it.

She got behind the wheel and drove through the night, which honestly tracks for anyone who's ever had a pet emergency call while three states away from home. You don't think twice, you just drive.

How Farage Held On for 40 Days

Domestic cats aren't exactly built for a month and a half of wilderness survival, but Farage apparently had other plans. She came back a little underweight, which makes sense after over a month fending for herself in Colorado's high desert terrain near the dunes, but otherwise healthy.

Cats have a well-earned reputation for being tougher and more resourceful than they get credit for, and this one just put that reputation to the test in a pretty extreme way.

The Reunion

By the time Bolen reached the humane society, it had been over a month of checking shelter websites and social media for any sign of her cat, mostly turning up nothing but near-misses and false hope. The actual reunion was, by her own account, tears of joy. Considering the drive alone was 16 hours each way, that's a serious amount of windshield time invested in getting her cat back, and by the sound of it, worth every mile.

Farage is back home now, presumably back on regular meals and reconsidering her stance on camping trips. As for the wildfire smoke currently hanging over the area, she might be forgiven for missing those clear Colorado mountain views just a little.

Former Top Gear and The Grand Tour host James May does, like many of us, have a love for certain cars. There is one car that always stood out to him, however, and in a recent video on YouTube, May has bought what might be the coolest hot hatch ever, and his dream 1980s car.

May has bought the Volkswagen Golf Mk2 GTI eight-valve, possibly one of the coolest cars ever made in the 1980s. The video on his Planet Gin YouTube channel sees May talk through his new car and why he wanted to buy it.

There is no denying that the Volkswagen Golf GTI is an all-time classic. Many regard it as the greatest hot hatch ever made, and the 1980s seemed like a very special time for the German car. It clearly left a mark on May, hence his desire to finally own one.

He said that his explanation for buying it was long-winded and that we should all get comfortable. But this is James May, a master of storytelling. So, we really can sit back and relax and enjoy listening to a motoring legend discuss a dream car.

Why Did James May Buy the VW Golf GTI MK2?

 

May explained that back when the Golf GTI Mk2 was new, a few of his mates had one of them. However, he didn't. "I had a crappy job, and I was poor. I lived in London, and I moved around mainly by bicycle," said May. He said he could never have the "money, the clothes, or the connections to be upwardly mobile" in the 1980s to be able to buy one of the amazing hot hatchbacks.

However, since then, things have changed. May is now super successful and is in a position to finally own one of these incredible hot hatchbacks. So he now does. As he said in the video, "I'm not bitter or anything, but I think this is what is called closure." It probably doesn't take a genius long to work out that May was incredibly happy to finally own one of these epic cars.

The 1.8-liter engine produces 112hp, which isn't a lot by 2026 standards. But for the 1980s, it was perfect, and something else you have to remember is how light the GTI is. It weighs less than a tonne, around 2,000lbs, which is incredibly light by modern standards. Few cars now weigh that little, which means it is incredibly perky and agile in the corners. Something May absolutely loves.

Smaller Than a Fiat Panda

One other thing that amazed May about the car was its size. Or more accurately, how small the VW Golf GTI is compared to the Fiat Panda. The Panda itself is already quite small, and May even looked up the size difference between the two, and yes, the Golf is smaller than his Panda. May allows himself to indulge in a few of the car's quirky features, such as the manually operated windows and sunroof, which seemed to be a trend in the 1980s.

"This is perky," May said as he put the car through its paces. He did admit that the interior felt a little brittle, especially compared to how refined they are in modern cars. He even said the car felt vulnerable on motorways due to its size, but on twistier and slower roads, the car comes alive. "It becomes a thing of great pleasure," smiled May.

May Was Clearly in Love With His New Golf

It was quite clear from the video that May had fallen for his new purchase. May was also astounded that the car had survived in such good condition, with only around 30,000 miles on the odometer. The smile on his face really did say it all, and the Golf GTI, as May said, "pretty bloody good." It was perhaps only natural that he should finish the journey at the pub he co-owns and enjoy a nice, refreshing pint.

An Albany, Georgia man is taking his local sheriff's office to court, and he's asking for a number that would make most of us sit down first: $8 million. Clinton Richer says he spent more than a year behind bars for a crime he insists he had nothing to do with, and now he wants Dougherty County to answer for it.

The case traces back to October 2023, according to WALB News 10, when an inmate named Carleton Gillis slipped away from custody while receiving medical treatment at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital. Anyone who has ever watched a police procedural knows what happens next: a manhunt. Deputies searched for days before finally tracking Gillis down in Albany, and in the process, several people connected to him ended up facing charges too, including his own mother and stepfather.

Richer got swept into that net. Investigators say they believed Gillis had been staying at Richer's home and had access to his truck, and that after informing Richer of Gillis's outstanding warrants, they believed Richer knowingly helped him evade capture. Richer was charged with aiding and abetting after officers reportedly found Gillis inside his truck.

Richer tells it differently. He says Gillis did stop by his place a couple of times, but that he turned him away and told him he couldn't stay. He flatly denies picking Gillis up from the hospital, calling that specific claim in his indictment untrue. What followed, he says, was a four-hour standoff with a SWAT team over an accusation that ultimately went nowhere.

What Happened During the Investigation

Body camera footage obtained by WALB shows investigators discussing the case with dispatch, explaining their reasoning for arresting Richer along with another man who was reportedly in the truck at the time.

From the sheriff's office's side, this looks like a case of officers working with the information they had in the moment during an active search for an escaped inmate. From Richer's side, it looks like a mistake that cost him dearly.

A Year Behind Bars, Then No Case At All

Richer spent roughly a year and a month in jail before the charges against him were dismissed. Court records show the case was "nolle prossed," legal language for prosecutors deciding not to pursue it further.

That's not the same as a court declaring him innocent, but it does mean the case never moved forward to a conviction. A judge, Denise Marshall, ultimately dismissed the charges, citing a lack of evidence.

The Cost of Sitting in Jail

Richer says the fallout went well beyond lost time. He claims he lost two businesses, a college scholarship due to missed attendance, his vehicle, and the tools and equipment that were on it.

Whether or not you've ever had a run-in with the law, most gearheads can appreciate the sting of watching a truck full of tools and equipment disappear into an impound lot for over a year.

Where Things Stand Now

The Dougherty County Sheriff's Office maintains that investigators acted on the information available to them at the time. Richer's lawsuit argues his involvement was wrongly identified and that officers failed to properly verify details before making the arrest.

As always with an active lawsuit, these are allegations that haven't been tested in court yet, so this one is worth keeping an eye on as it develops.

Emergency service vehicles need to be given the right of way immediately, but motorists who are unaware of their surroundings often hold them up, causing valuable time to be lost while responding to emergencies.

Whether it's an ambulance, a fire truck, or a police car, emergency vehicles should be allowed to pass without delay, and failing to do so could result in a penalty.

A video from the Netherlands on social media showing a fire engine spraying water at the car in front of it has gone viral, serving as a reminder to motorists about move-over laws.

However, the firefighters' actions in the video were for an entirely different purpose, even though the footage still serves as a reminder for drivers to stay alert for vehicles displaying emergency lights.

Airport Fire Engine Sprays Water on Car Blocking Its Path

A video posted by AsiaOne on Instagram shows an airport fire engine with its lights flashing and sirens blaring as it follows a hatchback traveling down the middle of the road between two lanes.

At first glance, it appears as though the fire engine is trying to get past the car, but there isn't enough room on either side for the driver to overtake safely.

Seemingly unable to move forward, the fire engine's operator activates a front-mounted water nozzle, unleashing a powerful spray that completely drenches the hatchback and briefly obscures it from view.

The footage then shows both vehicles passing the person filming, with the fire engine continuing to spray water at the car as it drives behind it.

A caption in the video reads, "Dutch fire engine water blasts car for not giving way."

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A post shared by AsiaOne (@asiaonecom)

Comments Expose Fire Incident Reality

Anyone watching the video could easily be led to believe it depicts a real incident. However, users in the comments section suggest that the footage is from a show in which this scene was orchestrated. Some comments are highlighted below:

One user confirmed:

"This was a show. Not a actual incident" [sic]

Another user said it was for a fire department anniversary:

"For context, don’t worry: This fire department celebrated their 80th anniversary and this was one of the various demonstrations that day."

One more user wrote along similar lines:

"It is a show🤣, it was a 25th year anniversery for the volunteer fire department! Some of these guys work the daytime job on a air base close to the smal town they volunteer. They took the airpland fire engine tk give a show 🤣" [sic]

A user claimed the information provided in the post is false: 

"Note: The information is click bait. This was a demonstration and this firetruck was not on it's way to a real call. The crashtender belongs to Lelystad Airport."

Still, There is Something to Take Away

Despite it being a show, the message remains clear: allow emergency service vehicles to pass as a priority. According to a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), all 50 states in the USA have Move Over laws.

A violation of the Move Over law results in fines and even jail time in some cases. The report reads:

"In 19 states and Washington, DC, laws include moving over for all vehicles with flashing or hazard lights, such as: law enforcement, EMS, fire, highway maintenance, construction, utility, trash, and disabled vehicles."

If an emergency vehicle with flashing lights is stopped or beside a roadway, motorists approaching the emergency vehicle must take the following precautions:

• Change into a lane not immediately adjacent to the vehicle, or
• Slow down to a reasonable speed if you’re unable to safely make a lane change.

BYD Australia is offering full refunds to more than 1,200 customers after discovering that some vehicles sold as 2026-built models were actually produced in 2025. The automaker is blaming the mix-up on an internal administrative error involving how vehicle production dates were recorded.

Australian car site Drive reports that a total of 1,265 customers are affected. Buyers had ordered and paid for vehicles they believed were built in 2026, only to later learn that their cars had rolled off the production line the previous year.

BYD initially offered approximately A$1,100 in compensation to affected owners, but the company has since expanded its response. Customers can now pursue a full refund of the original transaction price, while reports also indicate that other remedies may be available depending on the individual case.

The issue does not necessarily mean the affected cars differ mechanically from 2026-built examples, but the build year can still matter significantly for resale and trade-in values. For buyers who specifically contracted for a 2026-built vehicle, receiving an older build can therefore have real financial consequences even when the car itself is otherwise identical.

BYD Blames an Administrative Error

BYD says the mistake resulted from confusion between the date a vehicle left the factory grounds and the date it was actually manufactured. That incorrect information was then reportedly communicated to customers as the vehicle's build year.

The company has apologized and said its teams have taken steps to prevent the same problem from happening again. BYD has also denied that it only expanded its compensation offer after the issue gained media attention.

Affected vehicles reportedly span multiple models rather than a single nameplate. Customers interviewed by Australian media included owners of the Atto 3, while other reports suggest a broader mix of BYD products may have been involved.

The company maintains that the issue was administrative rather than deliberate. There has been no finding that BYD intentionally misrepresented vehicles, and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission had not announced a formal investigation at the time of the reports.

Why a One-Year Build Difference Matters

To some buyers, the distinction between a late-2025 and early-2026 build might seem minor, particularly if specifications, warranty coverage, and equipment are unchanged. In the used-car market, however, build year can influence valuation.

A vehicle officially recorded as a 2025 build may be treated as older when it is eventually sold or traded, even if it was first registered in 2026. That can affect depreciation calculations and the price future buyers are willing to pay.

The issue can be particularly sensitive with EVs, where used values are already under pressure from rapid technology improvements and frequent new-car price changes. Owners expecting a newer build year may therefore reasonably worry that an older production date could further affect resale value.

That is why the full-refund option matters. Rather than forcing customers to accept compensation for the discrepancy, BYD is now allowing affected buyers to unwind the original transaction entirely.

The Refund Bill Could Be Significant

If large numbers of customers choose full refunds, the financial impact could become substantial. Using a rough average transaction price of A$40,000 per vehicle, refunding all 1,265 affected buyers would represent nearly A$51 million in returned purchase payments.

That does not necessarily mean BYD would suffer a loss of that entire amount, since refunded vehicles could potentially be resold. Even so, handling buybacks, replacements, administrative costs, and possible depreciation would make the mistake expensive.

The timing is also awkward for BYD, which has been expanding rapidly in Australia and building a larger presence in one of the world's most competitive automotive markets. Reliability and value have helped Chinese automakers gain ground, but customer trust becomes equally important as those brands move into the mainstream.

A Painful Mistake During Rapid Growth

BYD has characterized the situation as an unfortunate clerical problem, and there is currently no evidence that the affected vehicles have mechanical defects connected to the build-year discrepancy. The problem is ultimately one of customer expectations and contractual accuracy.

For an automaker growing as quickly as BYD, however, that distinction does not make the issue insignificant. Buyers expect the vehicle they receive to match the one described in their paperwork, especially when something as basic as the production year can affect future value.

Offering full refunds is a costly way to correct the problem, but it also gives customers a clearer path forward than the initial compensation offer. BYD may be able to fix the paperwork and compensate buyers, but the bigger challenge will be making sure a mistake like this does not follow the brand as it continues its aggressive international expansion.

Honda New Zealand is opening the doors to part of its private Heritage Collection, giving enthusiasts a rare opportunity to buy cars that have spent their recent lives preserved by the automaker itself. A total of 19 vehicles are being offered as Honda prepares to close its longtime facility in Nelson, New Zealand.

Most of the collection is heading to auction with no reserve, meaning the market will ultimately decide what these cars are worth. The selection stretches across several decades of Honda history, ranging from a highly desirable EK9 Civic Type R to humble family cars and one remarkably well-traveled Civic.

The sale follows Honda's decision to close its Nelson facility after a 46-year presence at the site. Before becoming associated with Honda, the factory assembled British Leyland products, including models from Triumph, Jaguar, Rover, and Austin, before switching to Honda production in 1980.

Local vehicle assembly ended in 1998, after New Zealand removed import tariffs and domestic production became financially unviable. The facility continued operating as Honda's National Distribution Center, but its closure has prompted the company to find new homes for part of the collection stored there.

The EK9 Civic Type R Is The Obvious Headliner

For performance enthusiasts, the standout is a 2000 Honda Civic Type R from the legendary EK9 generation. Imported from Japan, the Championship White hatchback has traveled approximately 154,000 km, or 95,700 miles, and retains its signature red Recaro seats.

Under the hood sits Honda's naturally aspirated 1.6-liter B16B four-cylinder, an engine that helped establish the early Type R formula of high revs, low weight, and sharp responses. This particular example isn't completely stock, however, as a previous owner fitted an aftermarket intake and exhaust.

Honda is also selling two track-only Type R examples dating from 2005 and 2022. Another enthusiast-friendly entry is a manual-transmission Honda Jazz RS equipped with Mugen upgrades, offering something considerably less exotic but potentially just as entertaining on the right road.

Honda's most valuable museum pieces aren't leaving the collection, as the original NSX, S2000, and Integra Type R are reportedly staying behind, so anyone hoping the clear-out might include one of the brand's greatest performance icons will have to settle for admiring those from a distance.

One Accord Has Barely Been Driven

Perhaps the most fascinating car in the sale isn't a Type R at all. Honda is offering a locally assembled 1995 Accord LXi with just 7,600 km, or roughly 4,700 miles, showing on its odometer.

Finished in burgundy, the fifth-generation Accord pairs a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine with a five-speed manual transmission. Its extremely low mileage makes it an unusual time capsule from an era when Accords were common sights on roads around the world, but surviving examples in near-unused condition are increasingly difficult to find.

Another low-mileage Accord comes from 1989 and has covered just over 33,000 km. The purple sedan is equipped with leather upholstery, a sunroof, power windows, and power mirrors, giving buyers another remarkably well-preserved piece of everyday Honda history.

The collection also includes a 1987 Accord Aerodeck, whose distinctive three-door shooting-brake shape makes it one of the more unusual cars in the group. A locally assembled 1987 Civic GTi should attract attention as well, particularly among collectors interested in Honda's lesser-known performance models.

There's Even A Civic With 260,000 Miles

Not every car in Honda's collection spent its life avoiding the open road. At the opposite end of the mileage spectrum sits a 1992 Civic hatchback that has accumulated an impressive 418,563 km, equivalent to nearly 260,000 miles.

Powered by a modest 1.3-liter engine paired with a manual gearbox, the locally assembled Civic reportedly had a single owner from new. Honda preserved it as an example of the durability that helped build the company's reputation, and its odometer has now recorded a distance greater than the average gap between Earth and the Moon.

Other curiosities include a brightly repainted 1988 Honda City with approximately 24,000 km on the clock, along with additional Civics and Accords spanning multiple generations. Collectively, the auction offers an unusually broad snapshot of the cars that built Honda's reputation long before Type R badges and high-dollar collector sales dominated enthusiast conversations.

The Cars Are Leaving For A Good Cause

Honda is conducting the sale in partnership with New Zealand marketplace Trade Me, with bidding on 16 of the 19 vehicles scheduled to conclude on July 29. Proceeds from the sale are set to benefit local charities, adding a worthwhile purpose to the breakup of part of the Heritage Collection.

For collectors, the appeal goes beyond finding the rarest or fastest Honda in the warehouse. Cars like a barely driven 1995 Accord, an obscure Civic GTi, or even a 260,000-mile economy hatchback tell different parts of the company's history than an NSX ever could.

The EK9 Civic Type R will predictably attract plenty of attention, but the ordinary cars may ultimately be the most interesting pieces here. With no reserve protecting most of them, Honda is giving enthusiasts a genuine chance to put a piece of its New Zealand history in their own garage.

Building a hypercar with 1,850 horsepower and then insisting horsepower isn't particularly important takes some confidence. That's effectively the argument Zenvo is making with the Aurora, its upcoming V12 hybrid flagship that the Danish manufacturer wants to position as a driver's car first and a collection of outrageous statistics second.

That might sound difficult to believe when the specification sheet includes a quad-turbocharged V12, hybrid assistance, and enough combined output to embarrass almost anything with license plates. Yet Zenvo Executive Chairman Jens Sverdrup says the company's priorities extend well beyond chasing the biggest numbers.

Instead, Zenvo wants the Aurora to deliver the kind of communication and involvement normally associated with much simpler performance cars. Steering feel, throttle response, sound, vibration, and precision are apparently higher on the development team's priority list than claiming another hypercar record.

The approximately $3 million Aurora will be offered in two distinct forms, the Tur and Agil, with production versions recently shown at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. Both are spectacularly powerful, but Zenvo's challenge is making that performance accessible and enjoyable when the car isn't being driven at ten-tenths.

Zenvo Says A Great Car Starts With The Steering

Sverdrup believes the steering system is fundamental to the entire driving experience. Get that wrong, he argues, and the rest of the car's performance becomes considerably less meaningful.

That philosophy helps explain why the Aurora uses hydraulic power steering rather than pursuing a fully electric system. Zenvo is targeting what Sverdrup describes as an organic, Lotus-like feeling through the wheel, giving drivers a clearer connection to what the front tires are doing.

The benchmark list is also surprisingly old-school for an 1,850-hp hypercar. Sverdrup cited the original Honda NSX as one reference point, alongside the McLaren 675LT and lightweight Lotus models from the 1960s.

Notably absent from that conversation are many of the obvious hypercar rivals. Zenvo isn't primarily trying to recreate the Bugatti approach, according to Sverdrup, despite operating in similarly rarefied territory when it comes to performance and price.

The Numbers Are Still Completely Absurd

Of course, it's difficult to ignore what powers the Aurora. Its quad-turbocharged V12 works with a hybrid system to produce as much as 1,850 horsepower, placing the car firmly among the most extreme road-going machines being developed today.

That creates an interesting philosophical contradiction. Zenvo wants the driver to feel deeply involved with the machine, yet the Aurora has levels of performance that will be impossible to fully explore on most public roads.

Unlike the famously analog Gordon Murray Automotive approach, the Aurora also won't offer a manual transmission. Gear changes are handled through large steering-wheel-mounted paddles, meaning Zenvo's definition of driver engagement doesn't depend on having three pedals and an H-pattern shifter.

Instead, the company appears to be concentrating on the quality of the controls themselves. Sverdrup wants the driver to feel integrated into the mechanical experience, with immediate responses and enough feedback to make the Aurora entertaining regardless of how quickly it is traveling.

Chasing Records Can Come With Compromises

Zenvo's reluctance to focus entirely on statistics comes partly from Sverdrup's experience elsewhere in the hypercar industry. His background includes time with Koenigsegg, Czinger, and Rimac, giving him firsthand exposure to companies operating at the sharpest end of automotive performance.

His concern is that chasing lap records and maximum-speed figures can force engineers into compromises. A car optimized around extreme high-speed performance may become less enjoyable during the far more common situations where its owner is driving slowly.

That's something Zenvo wants to avoid with the Aurora. Sverdrup argues that a hypercar should still be enjoyable on a canyon road or even while crawling through heavy traffic, rather than requiring an empty circuit to reveal its personality.

Usability has consequently played a role in the Aurora's development. Zenvo has considered relatively mundane details such as making the car easy to enter and exit, while the interior combines dramatic hypercar presentation with a functional, Scandinavian-inspired approach.

Can 1,850 HP Really Feel Delicate?

The real test will come when people outside Zenvo finally get behind the wheel. Building an enormously powerful hypercar is one challenge; making one communicate with the delicacy of an old Lotus or the clarity of an original NSX is something entirely different.

Zenvo's intentions are certainly intriguing. In a segment where manufacturers compete over top speeds, acceleration figures, lap times, and increasingly enormous horsepower outputs, focusing on steering feel gives the Aurora a potentially distinctive identity.

The company displayed the production-spec Aurora Tur and Agil at Goodwood this year, but the cars are expected to return in 2027 under considerably noisier circumstances. Zenvo says they'll tackle the famous hillclimb with their V12 engines spinning toward 10,000 rpm.

At that point, keeping everyone's attention focused on the steering rather than the 1,850 horsepower screaming behind the driver could prove rather difficult.

Volvo and station wagons belong together, yet American buyers are about to experience something unusual: a Volvo lineup without a single longroof. With the V60 Cross Country and V90 Cross Country departing the U.S. after the 2026 model year, the Swedish automaker is temporarily leaving one of the body styles most closely associated with its identity.

That absence might not last long. A report from Automotive News claims Volvo is considering bringing a new electric station wagon to the United States, potentially giving wagon enthusiasts another option as soon as 2028.

The proposed EV would reportedly be joined by an electric sedan, with both models already under development primarily for Europe. Neither has been officially confirmed for the U.S., and Volvo declined to comment on the report, but bringing the pair across the Atlantic is apparently under consideration.

There is, of course, one significant difference between these potential newcomers and the Volvos many wagon loyalists remember. If the electric longroof does arrive, there won't be a turbocharged five-cylinder, supercharged four-cylinder, or even a plug-in hybrid under the hood. This time, Volvo's American wagon comeback could be entirely battery-powered.

A New Electric Wagon Could Arrive In 2028

The future sedan and wagon are reportedly being developed using Volvo's SPA3 architecture. That's the same next-generation platform underpinning the EX60 electric SUV, giving Volvo a common technical foundation for several different body styles.

While the exact names remain unknown, the models are expected to sit somewhere within Volvo's 60- or 70-series range. With the larger ES90 electric sedan already available in other markets, an ES60 badge would seem logical for the smaller sedan, while an electric wagon could potentially adopt a related designation.

A Cross Country version may also be possible. Volvo has a long history of taking its wagons, adding extra ground clearance and rugged-looking bodywork, and creating vehicles that split the difference between traditional estates and SUVs.

If approved for America, the new EVs would reportedly arrive in 2028 after being homologated for the U.S. market. Production is expected to take place in Europe.

Volvo Isn't Expecting Huge Sales

Nobody should expect an electric Volvo wagon to suddenly dethrone the country's best-selling SUVs. According to the report, Volvo could target combined annual U.S. sales of around 10,000 units for the sedan and wagon.

Pricing is expected to begin somewhere in the low-$50,000 range, although specifications and final positioning remain uncertain. That would place the cars in premium territory without pushing them into the pricing stratosphere occupied by some high-performance European wagons.

The relatively modest sales expectations aren't particularly surprising. American buyers have steadily abandoned sedans and station wagons in favor of crossovers and SUVs, leaving the traditional wagon as an increasingly niche proposition.

Volvo itself has participated in that transition. Once synonymous with practical, boxy family wagons, the automaker's American lineup is moving toward SUVs as its remaining longroof models disappear.

Volvo Thinks The SUV Boom May Have Gone Too Far

Interestingly, Volvo doesn't appear convinced that an SUV-only future is inevitable. CEO Håkan Samuelsson recently suggested the market may have swung too aggressively toward SUVs and predicted other body styles could eventually make a comeback.

Electric vehicles could actually strengthen the case for wagons. Compared with taller SUVs, a lower body can reduce frontal area and aerodynamic drag, potentially helping engineers extract additional driving range from the same battery capacity.

There may also be a generational factor at play. Just as previous generations moved away from the station wagons their parents drove, future buyers could eventually view SUVs as the conventional family vehicles they want to replace with something different.

That doesn't guarantee a wagon renaissance, particularly in the United States. It does, however, give automakers another reason to reconsider the longroof as efficiency becomes increasingly important in EV development.

An Electric Return To Volvo's Roots

A new wagon would carry plenty of historical significance for Volvo. Models ranging from the famously durable 200 Series estates to the 850 T-5R helped establish the company's reputation for combining practicality with distinctive Scandinavian character.

The potential new EV obviously wouldn't recreate those cars mechanically. It could, however, revive the basic philosophy of offering family-friendly cargo space without requiring buyers to step up into another tall crossover.

For now, American Volvo wagon fans shouldn't start preparing their deposits. The electric sedan and wagon are reportedly intended for Europe first, and a U.S. launch remains under consideration rather than officially confirmed.

Still, the possibility is encouraging. Volvo may be preparing to leave the American station wagon market after 2026, but if these reports prove accurate, the company's longroof exile could last only a couple of years.

Harley-Davidson has turned another evocative trademark into a real motorcycle. The new 2026 Harley-Davidson Deadwood takes inspiration from the stripped-down bobbers that emerged after World War II, combining their minimalist attitude with the comfort and technology expected from a thoroughly modern Harley.

That creates an entertaining contradiction. The original bobber movement was built around removing unnecessary components, while the Deadwood arrives with cornering ABS, traction control, selectable riding modes, tire-pressure monitoring, LED lighting, USB-C charging, and connections for heated riding gear.

Underneath the vintage-inspired appearance is Harley's familiar Softail architecture and a Milwaukee-Eight 117 Classic V-twin. The result is a motorcycle designed to look like it has been stripped to the essentials without requiring its owner to sacrifice modern safety systems or everyday usability.

For now, the Deadwood is destined exclusively for the United States and Canada. In the U.S., prices start at $17,999, with the motorcycle scheduled to make its public debut on August 7 at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

Inspired By The Original Bobber Movement

Harley says the Deadwood draws inspiration from the years following World War II, when returning servicemen began modifying motorcycles by removing excess weight and decorative components. Those home-built machines helped establish the visual language that would eventually become associated with bobbers.

The Deadwood recreates that appearance with a predominantly black finish covering the engine, exhaust, controls, fork covers, handlebar, headlight bucket, and other components. Small chrome details on the lower rocker covers and pushrod tubes provide some contrast while emphasizing the shape of the V-twin.

Denim Black paint covers the five-gallon fuel tank and fenders, while black-rimmed wire-spoke wheels and a tuck-and-roll solo seat complete the look. With no standard passenger seat or saddlebags cluttering the silhouette, the Softail frame remains visually prominent.

Its 25.5-inch seat height also places the Deadwood among Harley-Davidson's lowest 2026 motorcycles. The hidden rear monoshock preserves the appearance of an old-fashioned hardtail while providing 3.4 inches of rear suspension travel and hydraulic preload adjustment.

The Milwaukee-Eight 117 Brings The Muscle

Power comes from Harley-Davidson's 1,923cc Milwaukee-Eight 117 Classic V-twin, producing a claimed 98 horsepower and 120 lb-ft of torque. Rather than chasing maximum output, Harley says the engine has been tuned to deliver accessible performance and a broad spread of torque.

A two-into-one exhaust system handles spent gases while contributing to the Deadwood's stripped-back appearance. The combination should make the bike particularly well-suited to relaxed cruising and strong roll-on acceleration, which fits its old-school character better than an obsession with outright horsepower figures.

The chassis hardware follows a relatively familiar Softail formula. A 49mm dual-bending-valve fork handles suspension duties up front, while braking comes from a single 300mm front rotor and a 292mm rear rotor.

Tubeless laced wheels carry a 100/90B19 tire at the front and a wider 150/80B16 at the rear. The setup preserves the traditional wire-wheel aesthetic without giving riders the additional inconvenience associated with conventional inner tubes.

Old-School Looks Meet Modern Electronics

The Deadwood's electronics package is where the postwar bobber inspiration meets 2026. Standard equipment includes cornering ABS, cornering traction control, drag-torque slip control, and tire-pressure monitoring.

Riders also get Road, Sport, and Rain riding modes, allowing the motorcycle to adjust throttle response and electronic intervention depending on conditions. It's considerably easier than the performance modifications available to the garage builders who inspired the Deadwood.

Lighting is entirely LED, including a seven-inch headlight and auxiliary fog lamps. A five-inch tank-mounted instrument cluster combines an analog speedometer with a multifunction LCD display, preserving some traditional styling while providing modern information.

There is also a conveniently located USB-C connection and two heated-gear connectors beneath the seat. The latter may seem slightly excessive for such a deliberately minimalist motorcycle, although anyone who has spent hours riding through cold weather probably won't complain.

Retro Without The Vintage Headaches

The Deadwood ultimately represents a familiar idea executed with a distinctly Harley-Davidson flavor. It offers the visual simplicity of an old-school custom motorcycle while secretly hiding decades of engineering progress underneath.

Purists could argue that loading a stripped-down bobber with electronic rider aids misses the original point. Most owners, however, will probably appreciate having modern brakes, functioning suspension, traction control, and an engine that reliably starts every morning.

Even the Deadwood name feels appropriately chosen. Deadwood, South Dakota, sits within the Black Hills and is closely associated with the same region that hosts the legendary Sturgis Motorcycle Rally.

That makes Sturgis an appropriate stage for the bike's August debut. The 2026 Harley-Davidson Deadwood may look like something inspired by a postwar garage build, but underneath the black paint and chopped-down attitude is a modern motorcycle designed to make nostalgia considerably easier to live with.

Mazda has spent the past few years dropping increasingly tantalizing hints about its sports car future. Now, newly surfaced patent filings may offer another piece of the puzzle, although they also raise some intriguing questions about exactly what the Japanese automaker is developing.

The patents depict a compact, front-engined, rear-wheel-drive convertible with an unusual feature for Mazda: butterfly-style doors. Under the hood, however, the drawings appear to show a longitudinally mounted four-cylinder engine rather than the rotary-based electrified powertrain enthusiasts might expect from Mazda's recent concepts.

Mazda hasn't identified the vehicle shown in the documents, so there is no confirmation that these drawings preview a specific production model. The obvious possibilities include engineering work connected to the next-generation MX-5 Miata, a future production interpretation of the Iconic SP concept, or potentially an architecture that could underpin multiple sports cars.

Whatever Mazda is planning, the patents suggest the company is continuing to invest engineering resources into lightweight, rear-wheel-drive performance cars. That alone should be encouraging for enthusiasts, even if the rotary engine appears to be missing from this particular set of drawings.

Mazda Is Exploring Butterfly Doors

One of the patents focuses on the vehicle's hinge-pillar structure and describes a flip-up side door arrangement. The design would allow the rear portion of the door to move outward and upward, creating an opening mechanism similar to butterfly or scissor doors.

That would be unfamiliar territory for a production Mazda. The automaker has experimented with unconventional door designs before, most famously with the RX-8's rear-hinged auxiliary doors, but dramatic upward-opening doors have never reached one of its production models.

The filing also details structural measures designed to maintain chassis rigidity. Mazda describes positioning the A-pillars closer to the shock towers, along with additional bracing intended to transfer suspension loads through reinforced areas of the body.

Another element described in the patent is an apron frame connecting portions of the front structure to the firewall. The apparent objective is to increase stiffness while controlling weight, an especially important consideration if the vehicle is indeed a convertible without a fixed roof contributing to structural rigidity.

The Engine Raises Even More Questions

Perhaps the most interesting detail isn't the doors at all. Patent illustrations appear to show a conventional four-cylinder engine mounted longitudinally ahead of the passenger compartment, along with what looks like a traditional transmission tunnel.

That layout immediately invites comparisons with the MX-5. Mazda has already indicated that the next generation of its roadster will preserve the fundamental formula that has defined the Miata for decades: low weight, compact dimensions, and an internal-combustion engine.

Fancy butterfly doors, however, would seem like an unusual addition to a car famous for simplicity and affordability. Such hardware could add cost and complexity to a model whose appeal has traditionally come from avoiding exactly those things.

The Iconic SP presents another possibility. Revealed as a sleek sports car concept with butterfly doors, it was originally presented with a two-rotor rotary engine serving as a generator within an electrified powertrain.

The architecture depicted in these patents appears considerably different, at least on the surface. That raises the possibility that Mazda could be investigating alternative powertrains for a production sports car inspired by the Iconic SP, although the patents alone aren't enough to establish that conclusion.

Could Mazda Be Developing One Platform For Two Sports Cars?

There is another intriguing possibility: Mazda could be developing a flexible sports car architecture capable of supporting different models and powertrains. In that scenario, the patent drawings might represent underlying engineering solutions rather than an exact preview of one future vehicle.

A shared architecture could theoretically help Mazda spread development costs while preserving distinct identities for the MX-5 and a higher-performance sports car. The Miata could remain relatively simple and accessible, while another model could adopt more exotic styling, greater performance, and features such as butterfly doors.

That remains speculation for now. Automakers regularly patent technologies and engineering concepts that never reach production, while patent illustrations are often simplified and shouldn't necessarily be interpreted as accurate previews of finished vehicles.

Still, the combination shown here is difficult to ignore. A compact Mazda sports car with rear-wheel drive, a longitudinal engine, and butterfly doors sounds like an enthusiast's wish list.

The surprising part is what isn't visible. After years of anticipation surrounding Mazda's potential rotary-powered sports car revival, these latest patents suggest the company's next performance machine could take a very different route.

BMW is giving car shoppers a new way to waste an afternoon building imaginary dream cars. The automaker has launched a vehicle configurator plugin for ChatGPT, allowing customers to create and refine BMW configurations through a natural conversation instead of clicking through endless menus.

The system combines ChatGPT's conversational interface with BMW's current product and configuration database. Users can describe what they want from a car in ordinary language, whether that means maximum performance, more cargo space, all-wheel drive, lower running costs, or simply a specific color.

BMW says the tool can then recommend suitable models and configurations based on those priorities. Customers can continue the conversation to adjust individual preferences, compare alternatives, and narrow down the specification until they arrive at something that fits their needs.

Once a user is happy with the result, the selected configuration can be opened in BMW's traditional online configurator. Shoppers can also search for existing inventory with similar specifications, potentially turning an AI-assisted fantasy build into an actual purchase.

Building a BMW Becomes a Conversation

Traditional online configurators generally require customers to select a model before working through trim levels, engines, paint colors, wheels, interior materials, and option packages. BMW's new system attempts to reverse that process by starting with what the customer actually wants from the vehicle.

A buyer could theoretically ask for a powerful BMW with all-wheel drive that is comfortable enough for daily commuting, then refine the request by adding requirements for a specific budget or exterior color. The system can use those details to narrow the company's lineup and suggest a suitable configuration.

The conversation can then continue without starting over. Users can ask how a different model might compare, request more performance, prioritize efficiency, or change their preferred drivetrain.

That approach could be particularly useful for customers unfamiliar with BMW's increasingly complex model lineup. Rather than knowing exactly which combination of model, engine, and trim to select, shoppers can begin with their needs and let the system guide them toward potential matches.

The Recommendations Use BMW's Own Configurator Data

BMW says the plugin draws its recommendations from the latest information available through the company's official vehicle configurator. That should help ensure suggested models and options reflect what BMW currently offers rather than relying solely on general AI knowledge.

The system is also designed to handle comparisons between different configurations. Buyers could weigh factors such as driving dynamics, operating costs, powertrain choices, available colors, and all-wheel drive without manually rebuilding multiple cars from scratch.

For more complicated requests, the conversational format may have an advantage over traditional configurators. Someone looking for a vehicle that needs to satisfy several competing requirements can keep adjusting the request until the recommendation becomes more specific.

BMW says that when questions extend beyond its configuration database, ChatGPT may also use current online information when the appropriate web features are available and enabled.

It Could Be Useful Even If You're Not Buying

Of course, not everyone who opens a car configurator is seriously preparing to place an order. Enthusiasts have spent years using these tools simply to experiment with paint colors, wheels, interiors, and expensive options they may never actually purchase.

Adding conversational AI could make that process even easier. Instead of manually building several cars to compare them, users can simply ask for alternatives or request changes based on a particular goal.

That could make the tool equally appealing to serious shoppers and people who just want to see what their ideal M car, luxury sedan, or road-trip SUV might look like.

BMW Is Betting on AI-Assisted Car Shopping

BMW sees conversational AI as another digital channel for customers to interact with the brand. The company believes search habits are increasingly moving away from traditional menus and toward systems where users simply describe what they need and receive personalized answers.

For car shopping, that could be a meaningful shift. Modern vehicle lineups can be complicated, with overlapping models, multiple powertrains, and option packages that are not always easy for newcomers to understand.

The new ChatGPT integration does not replace BMW's existing configurator, but it could make getting to the right configuration much faster. Instead of knowing exactly what BMW you want before you start, you can now begin with a simple request and refine your dream car one conversation at a time.

For enthusiasts who already spend far too much time configuring cars they have no intention of buying, BMW may have just made the habit even harder to break.

A Kansas fisherman near Herington Lake heard the sound of a vehicle crashing shortly after midnight. He could not see where it had happened, but he could hear someone in the darkness calling for help.

When emergency crews finally located the source of those cries, they were not looking at a pickup sitting in a shallow ditch. The truck had plunged into a circular, water-filled cistern approximately 30 feet across and was already submerged.

The lone occupant had escaped the cab but remained trapped inside the shaft. According to firefighters, he was floating on a spare tire and could barely touch the bed of the truck as it continued sinking beneath him.

What followed was an extraordinary rescue involving multiple fire departments, emergency medical crews, sheriff's deputies, technical rope equipment, a 35-foot ladder, divers, and a 50-ton heavy wrecker brought in to lift the pickup from roughly 30 feet below the top of the cistern wall.

A Fisherman Heard Someone Calling for Help

According to the Herington Fire Department, crews were dispatched at 12:24 a.m. on July 18 alongside Dickinson County EMS and the Dickinson County Sheriff's Office after a fisherman called 911. The fisherman reported hearing what sounded like a vehicle crash near the west side of Herington Lake but could not see where the vehicle had gone. He could, however, hear someone calling for help in the darkness.

Herington Fire Chief 901 and Dickinson County EMS Medic 3 were flagged down near the spillway on 500 Avenue, where bystanders pointed responders toward what they described as a hole beside the roadway. Firefighters quickly realized this was no ordinary ditch. Just off the road sat a circular, water-filled cistern approximately 30 feet across with an unknown depth.

The pickup had already slipped beneath the surface, leaving its lone occupant floating on a spare tire while barely able to touch the truck's bed as it continued sinking beneath him.

Firefighters Lowered a 35-Foot Ladder Into the Cistern

The incident was upgraded to a high-angle rescue, and assistance was requested from the Abilene Fire Department Rescue 1, the Chapman Fire Department Rescue 3, the Junction City Fire Department, and the Salina Fire Department. Herington Rescue 2 and Ladder 2 also responded to the scene.

Firefighters first threw the driver a life vest and rescue sling attached to a rope while preparing Ladder 2 for a technical rope rescue. With the water's depth unknown and the pickup continuing to sink, there was little time to waste. Rather than wait for the full rope system to be completed, firefighters lowered a 35-foot ladder into the cistern and used it to bring the driver safely back to the surface.

The driver was turned over to Dickinson County EMS and transported for treatment, although officials did not release additional details about the extent of his injuries. Because of the darkness and the complexity of the scene, crews decided to wait until daylight before attempting to recover the submerged pickup.

Crews Returned With Divers and a 50-Ton Rotator

At approximately 10 a.m., personnel from multiple agencies returned to recover the pickup. Crews from Herington, Abilene, Chapman, Junction City, Marion County Fire District No. 5, Dickinson County Road and Bridge, Dickinson County EMS, the Dickinson County Sheriff's Office, Evergy, and Salina Wrecker Service all took part in the operation.

Trees and brush first had to be cleared before recovery equipment could be positioned around the opening. A rope system was then established over the cistern while divers from Junction City entered the water to attach rigging to the submerged pickup. Once the truck was secured, Salina Wrecker Service used a 50-ton sliding rotator to hoist it from approximately 30 feet below the top of the cistern wall.

Crews were not pulling a truck from a roadside depression. They were hoisting a submerged vehicle almost vertically from a water-filled shaft roughly the width of a small house. Despite the difficult location and the need for divers, rigging, brush removal, and heavy recovery equipment, the daytime operation was completed in one hour and 55 minutes.

Family Member Says an Animal Ran Into the Road

Neither the fire department nor the sheriff's office publicly announced what caused the pickup to leave the roadway. However, a woman identifying herself in the Facebook discussion as the driver's sister said an animal ran in front of the truck and startled him.

According to her account, the driver swerved into a ditch on the opposite side of the cistern, came back toward the roadway, struck a friend's vehicle, and then traveled down the other side before falling into the opening. She said her brother suffered bumps and bruises but no major injuries and that the person in the other vehicle was also okay, although that vehicle was damaged.

That account has not been independently confirmed by investigators.

Residents Question Why the Cistern Was Left Open

The fire department's photos prompted questions from area residents about why such a large, water-filled opening had apparently been left without a substantial cover, fence, or guardrail. Several commenters said the cistern had been known locally for years and argued that it should now be filled, covered, or secured to prevent another vehicle or person from falling inside.

One resident claimed concerns about the opening had previously been raised with a city official, while another said they had long wondered why it remained uncovered. Some commenters described the structure as an abandoned railroad cistern or hand-dug well that may once have supplied water to steam locomotives passing through Herington.

A woman who identified herself as the driver's sister also said the cistern had once been used to power steam engines before being abandoned. That history was discussed by local residents but was not confirmed in the fire department's account.

The Fisherman's Call May Have Saved a Life

Many readers focused on how fortunate it was that someone happened to be fishing nearby shortly after midnight. The pickup was underwater and could not easily be seen from the road, leaving the fisherman with only the sound of the crash and the driver's cries to guide his 911 call.

Had he not been close enough to hear someone calling for help, responders may not have known where to begin searching. Looking back, it is difficult to overstate how unusual the rescue was. Firefighters were working around a 30-foot-wide, water-filled cistern with an unknown depth, lowering a 35-foot ladder to reach a driver whose pickup was still sinking before later returning with divers and a 50-ton sliding rotator to recover the vehicle from approximately 30 feet below the top of the shaft.

The driver survived by escaping the submerged cab, finding a floating spare tire, and staying above water until firefighters reached him. The Herington Fire Department credited every responding agency for making both the overnight rescue and the daylight recovery possible, noting that the operation could not have been completed by a single department.

For more photos and discussion of the incident, check out the Facebook post.

Toyota and BMW are joining forces with energy giant Repsol and technology supplier Bosch for an unusual real-world experiment in Spain. Instead of testing another EV or hydrogen prototype, the companies are putting ordinary gasoline-powered cars on a diet of 100% renewable fuel.

The six-month pilot began in July 2026 and will involve around 20 Toyota and BMW vehicles operating exclusively on Repsol’s Nexa 95 renewable gasoline. Bosch will monitor and verify how the fuel is used through its Digital Fuel Twin tracking system.

The objective is to prove that existing gasoline vehicles can reduce their overall lifecycle carbon footprint without major mechanical changes or entirely new refueling infrastructure. Supporters see renewable gasoline as a potential complement to electrification, particularly for the millions of combustion-powered vehicles already on European roads.

Toyota and BMW also hope the trial will help influence future European transport policy. With regulators debating how different low-carbon technologies should fit into long-term emissions targets, the companies want renewable fuels to be considered alongside battery-electric and hydrogen solutions.

The Cars Don’t Need Major Modifications

One of the biggest selling points of the project is simplicity. The vehicles used in the trial are standard Toyota, Lexus, BMW, and Mini models drawn from existing fleets rather than purpose-built prototypes.

Repsol’s Nexa 95 is designed to work as a drop-in replacement for conventional gasoline. That means the cars can use their existing engines and fuel systems while refueling through familiar service-station infrastructure.

The renewable gasoline is produced from feedstocks that comply with European sustainability requirements, including waste and residue-based materials. Sources associated with the project have cited examples such as used cooking oil and animal fats, although Repsol has not publicly detailed every component used in the fuel.

Bosch Will Track Every Drop

The project is not simply about filling a few cars with alternative gasoline and seeing whether they run. Bosch’s Digital Fuel Twin system will track and verify fuel use across the supply chain, combining vehicle data, fuel-station records, and payment information.

The idea is to create a reliable digital record showing that participating vehicles are genuinely running on renewable fuel. That kind of traceability could become important if regulators eventually create special rules for vehicles that operate exclusively on approved low-carbon fuels.

Toyota and BMW refer to the concept as Vehicles Exclusively Running on Eligible Fuels, or VEEF. The companies argue that digital certification could help separate genuine renewable-fuel use from ordinary fossil gasoline consumption.

Why Spain Was Chosen

Spain was selected because Repsol already has renewable gasoline available through public filling stations there. The company says it is currently the only supplier offering 100% renewable gasoline at public service stations in the country.

That gives the pilot access to a real-world fueling network rather than a closed test facility. It also allows the companies to study whether renewable gasoline can work at scale using infrastructure that drivers already understand.

For Toyota and BMW, that practical compatibility is the central argument. Electrification requires buyers to purchase new vehicles and often depends on access to charging, while renewable gasoline could theoretically begin reducing the lifecycle emissions of existing combustion vehicles immediately.

Renewable Gasoline Still Produces Tailpipe CO2

The term “renewable gasoline” does not mean the fuel produces zero emissions when burned. Cars using it still release carbon dioxide from their exhausts, just as they do with conventional gasoline.

The environmental argument instead focuses on where the carbon originates. Renewable fuels are produced from recently existing biological or renewable sources rather than extracting additional fossil carbon that has been stored underground for millions of years.

Supporters therefore measure the benefit across the full fuel lifecycle rather than only at the tailpipe. Repsol says its renewable fuels can deliver substantial greenhouse-gas reductions compared with conventional fossil fuels, although the exact savings depend on feedstock, production, transportation, and other lifecycle factors.

Toyota and BMW Want Europe to Keep Its Options Open

Toyota has long argued that the transition away from fossil fuels should involve multiple technologies rather than relying exclusively on battery-electric vehicles. BMW has taken a similar position, continuing to invest in EVs while also supporting hydrogen and renewable fuels.

The two automakers believe fuels such as Nexa 95 could help reduce emissions from both new and existing combustion-powered cars. They also see potential for hybrids and plug-in hybrids to operate with lower lifecycle emissions when paired with renewable fuel.

Data from the Spanish pilot will eventually be shared with policymakers and industry groups as part of the broader debate over Europe’s future emissions regulations. The companies are hoping to prove that decarbonizing road transport does not necessarily require every gasoline-powered car to disappear overnight.

Whether renewable gasoline can become affordable and plentiful enough to make a meaningful difference remains a much bigger question. Still, Toyota, BMW, Repsol, and Bosch are betting that one path toward cleaner transportation might involve keeping familiar engines on the road—while dramatically changing what goes into their fuel tanks.

If you've flown out of BWI Marshall Airport recently, you know the drill: shoes off, laptop out, and pray the TSA line moves faster than a Monday morning commute. Most days it's just the usual shuffle of frustrated travelers and overworked agents doing their best with what they've got. But newly released video from the airport shows just how badly that routine can go sideways, and it's the kind of thing that makes you wonder what's really going on behind the scenes at security checkpoints these days.

The footage, recorded back on April 2nd but only made public recently, shows a man's encounter with TSA agents escalate from a seated conversation near a Chick-fil-A line into a full-blown physical altercation. It's not the kind of thing you expect to see when you're just trying to grab a chicken sandwich before your flight.

Behind this single incident is a bigger story about an agency that's been stretched thin. Two separate government shutdowns in the span of about six months cost the TSA more than a thousand employees, and the union representing agents says passenger hostility is part of what's pushing people out the door too. Whether that context excuses anything is a fair question, but it does explain why checkpoints have felt more chaotic than usual lately.

Here's what we know about what happened, and why it's worth paying attention to even if you're not flying out of Maryland anytime soon.

What the Video Actually Shows

According to ABC 7 News, the man involved is 32-year-old Cornelius Queen of Charles County. The video shows him sitting on the floor talking with another man in the Chick-fil-A line when something set him off. Queen reportedly grabbed and shoved the man, then picked up his orange water bottle and slammed it on the ground, catching it as it bounced back up like he was auditioning for a juggling act.

He then allegedly hurled the bottle at another passenger's head, who ducked just in time. When a TSA supervisor showed up to intervene, Queen reportedly went after him too, eventually lunging and falling to the ground before other agents helped make the arrest.

A Missed Flight and a Messy Day

Queen had already gone through TSA once that day to catch a flight, which he ended up missing. The airline he was flying, Spirit, has since gone out of business entirely, so at least that part of the story has an ending nobody saw coming.

What exactly triggered the second, more violent encounter isn't entirely clear from the reporting, but it happened not long after he'd already had one frustrating brush with security that day.

A Record With One Notable Exception

A look into Queen's background shows plenty of charges in Maryland over the years, along with some felony convictions. Most of it wasn't violent, though.

The one exception on record is an armed robbery charge from about 13 years earlier. He was indicted in June for the assault on TSA agents from the April incident.

Long Lines and a Frustrated Workforce

The week before this all went down, BWI Marshall had already seen unusually long security lines after a wave of TSA agents called out following a second missed paycheck since the previous October.

It's not hard to see how that combination, tired travelers and short-staffed checkpoints, can turn a bad day into a genuinely ugly one.

Some restoration stories start with a barn find. This 1988 Chevrolet Monte Carlo began with something far more painful: the car was stolen, recovered in ruined condition, and then parked for nearly two decades because its owner could not afford to bring it back.

The owner, identified in the WD Detailing video as LePair, said he stopped driving the Monte Carlo after being carjacked and eventually stored it in a garage. Even then, the bad luck continued, with thieves later stealing the custom 22-inch wheels that had once been fitted to the car.

After hearing the story, the team at WD Detailing decided a simple wash was not enough. What started as a deep clean quickly turned into a far larger project involving new wheels, extensive electrical repairs, an engine replacement, paint correction, mold removal, and enough mechanical work to get the Monte Carlo moving under its own power again.

Two months later, the car was returned to its owner in dramatically different condition. The result was less about creating a concours-quality showpiece and more about giving back a car that had carried years of memories before theft effectively ended its life on the road.

Years of Storage Had Taken a Heavy Toll

When the Monte Carlo was pulled from the garage, its condition reflected roughly 19 to 20 years of sitting. Dirt and debris covered the exterior, while the heavily customized pink-and-white interior had accumulated grime and needed a complete deep cleaning.

The car still wore an elaborate custom paint job with significant metallic flake, and underneath the dirt, the finish was reportedly in surprisingly decent condition. WD Detailing pressure-washed the body, cleaned it thoroughly, used a clay-bar treatment, and polished the paint to remove oxidation and light scratching.

The interior received similar attention, including mold treatment and a full cleaning of the custom upholstery, carpets, dashboard, and trim. Much of the cabin had been extensively modified years earlier, with pink-and-white leather wrapping nearly every visible surface.

Getting the Monte Carlo Running Was the Bigger Challenge

Cleaning the car turned out to be the easy part. Once the hood was opened, the team discovered a partially disassembled engine with a missing intake manifold, carburetor, distributor, fuel-pump components, and one valve cover.

Further inspection revealed water and heavy corrosion inside at least one cylinder, leading the mechanic to conclude that the original engine was beyond saving. The wiring was also badly damaged, with cut, burned, and improvised sections throughout the harness.

Rather than stopping there, the team installed a replacement 4.3-liter Chevrolet V8 sourced from a 1982 El Camino and began rewiring the car. A new engine harness, lighting wiring, and other electrical repairs were completed before attention turned to fuel delivery.

After installing a new fuel pump and restoring fuel flow, the replacement engine finally fired and settled into an idle. The transmission initially needed additional fluid before the Monte Carlo could move, but eventually the long-dormant car was once again running and driving.

The Stolen Wheels Were Finally Replaced

Part of the Monte Carlo’s old personality came from the oversized custom wheels it wore before they were stolen. WD Detailing wanted to restore that look, but finding modern 22-inch chrome wheels that fit the car’s original bolt pattern proved difficult.

The solution was a set of adapters that allowed the team to fit a different bolt pattern and expand the available wheel choices. A used set of 22-inch chrome wheels was then sourced, cleaned, polished, and installed.

The new setup was not an exact recreation of what had been stolen years earlier, but it restored the flamboyant custom style that matched the car’s pink paint and heavily modified cabin. For the owner, seeing the Monte Carlo back on large chrome wheels became one of the emotional highlights of the reveal.

A Forgotten G-Body Gets Another Chance

The 1988 model year marked the end of the rear-wheel-drive G-body Monte Carlo, making this example one of the last cars from that particular era of Chevrolet design. This one is far from factory-original, but its modifications tell a story just as clearly as a perfectly preserved survivor.

The custom paint, white steering wheel, pink carpet, leather-wrapped interior, and oversized wheels all reflect the period in which the car was originally personalized. Rather than erase those details, the restoration focused on preserving them while making the vehicle usable again.

When the finished Monte Carlo was finally returned, the owner’s reaction made the purpose of the project clear. Hearing the replacement engine running before even seeing the car was enough to bring an immediate emotional response.

After being stolen, damaged, stripped of its wheels, and left sitting for nearly 20 years, the 1988 Monte Carlo is finally back with the person who never gave up on it. Sometimes the best restoration is not about making a car perfect—it is about making sure its story gets to continue.

Some restomods are built to chase perfection, but this 1969 Chevrolet El Camino SS, featured on Autotopia LA, was brought back for a much more personal reason. Its owner, Darrin, has had the car for roughly 40 years, turning it from a daily driver and street racer into a long-dormant project before finally reviving it with the same circle of friends who helped wrench on it decades ago.

The El Camino originally ran a big-block V8 with a four-speed manual, and Darrin spent years gradually making it quicker. At one point, the car reportedly ran an 11.32-second quarter-mile at Los Angeles County Raceway before engine trouble and an increasingly track-focused setup eventually pushed it out of regular use.

Life then got in the way. The El Camino sat for roughly three decades, spending time in and around the garage while work, family, and other priorities took over.

When longtime friend Chris from Open Roader Garage convinced Darrin to bring it back, the goal was not to create a flawless show car. Instead, they built something that preserved the El Camino’s old-school personality while giving it the power, brakes, suspension, and reliability needed to be enjoyed again.

A 630-HP LS3 427 Brings It Back to Life

The biggest change sits under the hood, where the old big-block has been replaced by a naturally aspirated Blueprint Engines LS3-based 427 V8. According to Darrin, the engine’s dyno sheet shows 630 horsepower, while output at the rear wheels is around 550 hp with a similar torque figure.

Power is sent through a Tremec TKX five-speed manual transmission. The car retains its original 12-bolt Positraction rear axle and 4.10 gearing, keeping an important part of its old street-racing character intact.

A full three-inch stainless-steel exhaust runs all the way to the rear, giving the LS-powered El Camino the soundtrack to match its performance. The cooling system was also renewed, with Darrin reporting operating temperatures around 185 degrees.

The result is significantly more power than the car realistically needs, which is part of the appeal. Even rolling into the throttle can get the rear tires moving around, and both owner and host agreed that adding much more horsepower would only make the car harder to use.

The Chassis Got Serious Upgrades Too

The El Camino still uses its original basic chassis, but the suspension has been extensively updated. New front and rear components, coilovers, and Golden West suspension hardware improve the way it drives without completely erasing the feel of a classic muscle car.

Braking has also been upgraded with six-piston Wilwood calipers at the front, although the rear still uses traditional drum brakes. Steering improvements include a replacement steering box and the removal of the original rag joint in favor of a universal-joint setup.

The car rides on 18-inch Weld wheels with 275/40 tires at the front and 295/40s at the rear. Darrin deliberately avoided tubbing the body, instead fitting as much rear tire as he felt comfortable running within the existing layout.

That decision reinforces the overall philosophy of the build. This is not a pro-touring El Camino engineered to behave like a modern sports car, but an old muscle machine with enough new hardware to make it more capable and enjoyable.

The Interior Still Tells Its Story

Inside, surprisingly little has changed. The seats, trim, and much of the cabin remain as they were decades ago, complete with the wear and imperfections accumulated through years of ownership.

Modern touches are limited but useful. Dakota Digital gauges replace the original instrumentation, the electrical system has been completely rewired using American Autowire components, and the retro-style radio includes Bluetooth connectivity.

Even the shifter itself remains from the car’s earlier days, despite the new five-speed transmission underneath. Darrin has resisted the temptation to over-restore the cabin, preferring to keep the history visible rather than erase it.

Air conditioning may eventually be added, but for now, the El Camino remains relatively simple inside. That suits a car built around driving rather than chasing trophies.

Forty Years Later, It’s Back on the Road

What makes this El Camino special is not simply its 630-hp LS swap. It is the fact that the same owner who drove it to the beach, carried hockey gear in it, and took it street racing decades ago is once again behind the wheel.

Bringing the car back with old high-school friends only adds to that connection. Instead of becoming another abandoned project that quietly disappeared, the El Camino has returned as a faster and more usable version of the machine Darrin remembers.

It still feels old, still has imperfections, and still struggles to put all of its power down cleanly. That is exactly why it works.

After 40 years of ownership and roughly 30 years of sitting, this 1969 El Camino SS is finally doing what it was built to do again: putting a smile on its owner’s face every time the throttle goes down.

An alleged confrontation on a rural Texas road has left a rising boxing star dead and a Texas man facing a manslaughter charge in a case that has drawn national attention.

Hannah Rapp, 26, died Saturday after investigators say Charles Eric Medina, 31, struck her while she was riding her bicycle along FM 159 in Brazos County, Texas. Medina was arrested following the incident, and authorities say the investigation remains active.

Investigators have released few details beyond the sequence of events they say led to the fatal encounter and have not publicly explained what prompted it. 

As the investigation unfolds, Rapp's death has sparked an outpouring of support for her family, renewed discussions about cyclist safety, and growing debate over the criminal case.

Investigators Say Driver Passed Cyclists Before Reversing

Deputies were called to the 23000 block of FM 159 around 10 a.m. Saturday, after receiving reports that a bicyclist had been struck by a vehicle.

Investigators say Medina drove past Rapp and another cyclist before stopping his vehicle, shifting into reverse, and striking Rapp. Emergency crews treated her at the scene before transporting her to a local hospital, where she later died from her injuries.

Medina was taken into custody without incident and booked into the Brazos County Detention Center on a charge of manslaughter. Detectives have not announced a motive or said what led to the encounter, describing the investigation as active and ongoing.

Remembering Hannah Rapp

Originally from Yorktown, Indiana, Rapp moved to College Station, Texas, where she worked at Texas A&M University while building an impressive professional boxing career.

She entered her most recent bout undefeated before challenging Tiara Brown for the World Boxing Council featherweight championship in June. Although Brown retained the title, she later remembered Rapp as the best "dance partner" she had faced as a professional and said it was an honor to share the ring with her.

The World Boxing Council also paid tribute, calling Rapp "an exceptional boxer" and "an invaluable member of our boxing family," while Bryan Boxing remembered her as "our Champion."

Friends have also launched the official Justice and Love for Hannah Rapp GoFundMe to help her family cover funeral expenses, medical bills, travel costs, and other unexpected expenses. The fundraiser describes Rapp as someone who brought "love, laughter, and light" to those around her and asks supporters to keep her family, friends, and partner, Will, in their prayers.

Public Records Show Medina's History With Law Enforcement

As news of Medina's arrest spread, Guessing Headlights obtained and reviewed public Brazos County jail records documenting more than a decade of prior bookings tied to the same name, date of birth, physical description, and sheriff's office identification number.

The records show Medina has been booked numerous times since 2012 on allegations involving traffic offenses, violent crimes, and attempts to evade law enforcement. Those records reflect arrests and bookings rather than convictions, and the disposition of every case could not be determined immediately.

Some of the more significant bookings include:

• 2012 (Brazos County) — Evading arrest or detention with a vehicle and reckless driving.
• 2013 (Brazos County) — Criminal mischief.
• 2015 (Grimes County warrant) — Theft of property.
• 2016–2017 (Brazos County) — Speeding, expired registration, and resisting arrest.
• 2019 (Brazos County) — Assault causing bodily injury involving a family member, escape from custody, interference with an emergency request for assistance, and criminal mischief.
• 2024 (Brazos County) — Deadly conduct involving the discharge of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance.
• 2025 (Brazos County) — Evading arrest or detention and public intoxication.
• 2026 (Brazos County) — Manslaughter in connection with the death of Hannah Rapp.

The records should not be interpreted as evidence that Medina committed the current offense. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Communities Seek Answers as Investigation Continues

While detectives continue investigating what happened on FM 159, conversations surrounding the case have expanded well beyond the initial arrest.

Many people following the case have questioned why Medina was initially charged with manslaughter rather than murder. Under Texas law, manslaughter generally involves recklessly causing another person's death, while murder requires prosecutors to prove additional legal elements, including intent or knowingly causing a person's death. Authorities have not publicly discussed Medina's alleged intent or indicated whether additional charges are being considered.

At the same time, different communities have rallied around Hannah Rapp's memory in different ways. The boxing world has remembered a respected fighter whose career was on the rise. Cyclists have renewed discussions about rider safety and aggressive driving. Friends and family have focused on honoring Rapp's life while asking supporters to help through the official GoFundMe campaign.

Across those conversations, one common thread has emerged: a desire for answers about what happened, accountability through the justice system, and hope that tragedies like this can be prevented in the future.

There have been instances in the past where a fuel nozzle wouldn't dispense gas into a vehicle, but the meter kept running, charging the customer for fuel they never received.

A similar incident has surfaced on social media, showing a woman at a 7-Eleven gas station who realized no fuel was entering her vehicle's gas tank while filling up.

Meanwhile, the meter showed the amount of fuel supposedly being dispensed, and the price continued to climb.

Naturally, any customer would be furious if that happened to them and would likely assume they had been scammed. But is that really the case?

"No Gas Coming Out of Here"

A video posted by Wall Street Apes on X shows a fuel nozzle sitting outside the car without dispensing any fuel. However, the camera then panned to the meter, which was still climbing. 

A woman present at the scene said there was "no gas coming out of here, still being charged." A man, who appears to be the pump attendant, said, "I'm sorry, it is not my issue," but the woman insisted that there was clearly a problem.

It is obvious that pumps do not normally function this way, and that something was clearly wrong at this 7-Eleven gas station. Rather than a scam, this could be an issue known as meter creep, as suggested in the video.

The location and timing of the incident are unknown. It is also unclear whether the customer ended up paying for fuel that was never dispensed or whether 7-Eleven resolved the issue.

Be careful and always watch the price when you fill up in America

This 7-Eleven gas station pump is not pumping gas but if you look at the price, it keeps going up. The nozzle is out of the car, very clearly not pumping gas, but the price keeps increasing….

We are seeing this… pic.twitter.com/FK9w9EmpNj

— Wall Street Apes (@WallStreetApes) July 18, 2026

What Is Meter Creep?

The issue may be related to a phenomenon known as "meter creep," where a mechanical fault causes the pump's meter to continue registering fuel even though the nozzle is closed.

The problem is commonly linked to maintenance-related issues, such as a leaking belly valve or air trapped in the fuel lines, which can cause the meter to record movement without fuel being dispensed.

According to a Motor1 report that covered a similar issue, meter creep is the result of aging equipment or malfunctions often related to improper maintenance.

Meter creep can be dealt with through routine maintenance of fuel pumps. Clearing nozzles and valves of debris and fuel residue can help ensure a smooth, error-free operation.

Anyone who encounters a meter creep issue should report it to the local weights and measures department. Its inspectors are in charge of routinely checking pumps at gas stations within their work areas.

Summer is always a busy time at the Disneyland Resort. With school out for most kids, families will take a vacation to the Happiest Place on Earth. Others simply enjoy the warmer weather and sunshine, especially if they’re a vibes-over-rides type of person.

Understandably, Disney, either by design or good timing, chooses the busy summer to unveil new offerings, make changes, or offer special deals for guests.

Their reasoning is often twofold. While summer remains a busy time, Halloween and Christmas have become even more popular in recent years. So as not to have their additions or changes overshadowed by holiday offerings, summer becomes an ideal time.

The summer of 2026 had been an interesting one at Disneyland. Some changes are welcomed with excitement, others with disdain. Let’s dive into Disneyland’s Summertime news roundup and everything happening at the Resort.

1. A New Animatronic on Pirates of the Caribbean

Disney Parks fans are nothing if not passionate. Whenever changes are made, especially to beloved attractions, the reactions will vary. Some fans are enthusiastic, while others react negatively. However, reactions do not often overwhelmingly skew in one direction. Such was the case for a new animatronic added to Pirates of the Caribbean.

Replacing a static skeleton sitting atop a pile of gold and treasure, this new animatronic uses projection mapping technology. The figure goes between a skeleton and a living face as he holds a cursed gold coin.

While a small few take no issue with the change, many  Disney Youtubers and fans on social media point out several glaring issues with the animatronic. The projection mapping looks and sounds cartoonish and loud, essentially ruining the moody and quiet atmosphere of the early part of the attraction. Several also note that it fundamentally changes the attraction’s structure and storyline. The technology is also temperamental, and only a few days in, the animatronic went into a “B” mode, not full functioning.

It’s unclear why Disney made this change, but some speculate it may be due to a partnership with Epic Games, and Disney is testing the technology. Regardless, it’s unnecessary and poorly placed. Only time will tell if the animatronic will remain, or if the negative fan reaction will force a return of the ride’s original skeleton.

2. Kids Rule Summer

The Disneyland Resort frequently offers ticket deals throughout the year, and Kids Rule Summer is an excellent one for families with children ages 3 to 9. Theme park vacations have become quite expensive, so any savings are most welcome.

This ticket deal includes 1 to 3-day options at a considerably lower rate than usual. 1-day Park Hopper tickets for kids ages 3-9 cost only $50, while 2 and 3-day Park Hopper tickets run $100-$150 respectively. For comparison, that’s a savings of $160 to $360.

Tickets are valid until September 7, and multi-day tickets must be used within 14 days of the first visit. Disney hotels are also offering a 15% discount.

3. Earl of Sandwich Reopens at Downtown Disney

Earl of Sandwich has been a mainstay in Downtown Disney for many years. However, the restaurant has moved locations several times ever since its original location closed in 2018. Along with the AMC Theaters, the Earl of Sandwich building was demolished to make way for new construction.

The restaurant has moved to other locations, including the opposite end of the district by the esplanade, and most recently, a food truck next to the Star Wars Trading Post. Coinciding with all of the updates and new restaurants coming to the area, Earl of Sandwich had finally reopened- and in almost the same location as its original one.

As one of the most popular eateries in Downtown Disney, fans are overjoyed with the reopening. The new location features indoor and outdoor seating, the menu we know and love, and some exciting new offerings, including hand-carved roast beef and giant, specialty cookies. Check out Fresh Baked’s in-depth video on the reopening.

4. New Edelweiss Lodge Seating Area

Some changes made to Disneyland are smaller, but they make a tremendous difference. Case in point: the new Edelweiss Lodge Seating Area. Located across from the Matterhorn Bobsleds and right next to Edelweiss Snacks and It’s A Small World promenade and churro cart, the new area provides a respite from the hustle-and-bustle of the park.

Seating can be difficult to come by, especially on busy days, so adding more will always be a good decision. Likewise, the theming adds to the ambiance of the area with hand-carved signs, hand-painted flower details, hanging lanterns, and props like snow shoes and skis. Overall, Edelweiss Lodge offers guests a calming place to relax and eat, lovely views of the water, and much-needed shade on sunny days.

Check out Theme Park Steve for a complete look at the new Edelweiss Lodge.

5. Pin Trading Changes

Disney Pin Trading can be fun when done right. However, in recent years, it has also come with its fair share of problems. Diehard fans line up en-masse on new pin release days, creating longer lines at the entrance and shops inside the park. Moreover, of these pin traders would take over the benches, tables, and chairs next to Frontierland’s Pioneer Mercantile, essentially setting up their “business” with several large folders of pins to trade.

Many found these individuals rude, especially because they took up valuable seating from those who may need it. However, Disney is cracking down on these long-standing practices, no longer permitting this type of trading in the park. Guests are welcome to casually trade amongst themselves and at the various shops and carts. However, the Frontierland area now only has a small display where kids, and only kids, can pin trade.

Reactions to these changes are somewhat mixed, but I, for one, think it’s a long time coming. These pin traders were disruptive and took advantage of Disney’s lax policies. Now, they can no longer take up precious real estate in the park, making for a more peaceful area.

6. Oogie Boogie Bash Tickets On Sale

Summer 2026 once again sees the return of the Oogie Boogie Bash at Disney California Adventure. Tickets went on sale in June, and dates begin in August. However, unlike previous years, which saw all dates sell out fast, only 6 out of the 32 dates have sold out.

Perhaps that large number holds the problem. Over 30 possible event dates make it difficult to sell out, especially compared with other Disney After Dark events, which only offer a handful of dates. It could also be a case of fans no longer caring about the event, with Disney changing very little. This year, only two new things have been announced: Madame Leota’s “Swinging Wake,” a Haunted Mansion-themed cavalcade, and Yzma, the villain from The Emperor’s New Groove. The former is only a replacement for Mickey’s Frightfully Fun Parade, which cannot run due to ongoing construction at Avengers Campus and Pixar Pier.

Whatever the reason for the low ticket sales, guests who do plan on attending may experience the least crowded it’s been in years, which isn’t necessarily good for Disney, but makes for an amazing guest experience.

7. Park Hopping Restrictions Gone

Park-hopping between Disneyland and Disney California Adventure has been one of the most popular perks amongst fans. Pre-2020, annual pass holders and guests who purchased said tickets could go between both parks freely with no time restrictions. But when the park reopened after the Pandemic, Magic Key holders and guests with Park-Hopper tickets could only park hop after 11 am.

After years of limiting guests, Disney has finally lifted the 11 am restriction. Now guests can park hop any time. The only caveat is that guests must wait 15 minutes before doing so. Despite this time constraint, it’s still a vast improvement in the guest experience.

8. One-Billionth Guest Welcomed

On July 3, 2026, Disneyland reached a remarkable and significant milestone and welcomed its one-billionth guest. After Andres Robles, attending the park to celebrate his 8th birthday with his parents, Alejandra and Jose, entered Disneyland, the family was greeted by Mickey and Minnie Mouse and given the VIP treatment.

The family was given a complimentary VIP tour, which included entering the coveted Walt Disney apartment on Main Street. They also helped unveil the updated sign at the Main Street train station, which now reads Population 1,000,000,000.

It took quite a few years between the one-millionth and one-billionth guest. Air Force Sergeant Richmond Gillies became the one- millionth guest on December 31, 1956, only a little over a year after the park opened, and received a lifetime pass to the park. Though it took 70 years to reach one billion, one must remember the magnitude of that number and how few places ever reach such an achievement.

9. Soarin’ Across America Opens

To celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary, Disney created a new version of their popular attraction, Soarin’. Although it had already premiered in EPCOT at Walt Disney World, Disney California Adventure’s version officially opened on July 2 to much praise.

Once again, actor Patrick Warburton recorded an updated introduction for the ride, much to the delight of fans. The film itself honors the vast beauty of America with scenes of New York Harbor and the Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore, the Grand Canyon, the Louisiana Bayou, the Ozark Mountains in Missouri, Diamond Head in Hawaii, and more.

Unlike the version in EPCOT, which concludes with Spaceship Earth, DCA’s version ends with guests soaring over Disneyland’s Main Street and Sleeping Beauty Castle before a fanfare of patriotic fireworks.

10. Gordon Ramsey at the Carnaby Opens at Downtown Disney

Earl of Sandwich is not the only July restaurant opening. Located on the second floor above Earl’s, Gordon Ramsey at the Carnaby opened on July 13. It is an upscale eatery modeled after a 1960s British Gastropub.

With mid-century London design, Rock music, and British cuisine, the Carnaby promises to be one of Downtown Disney’s most unique restaurants. The menu includes British staples like Beef Wellington, Cottage Pie, Bangers and Mash, Fish and Chips, and Sticky Toffee Pudding. There’s also Parker Rolls and Pea Guacamole for starters, various fresh salads, Roasted Norwegian Salmon, Branzino, Gouda Mac and Cheese, Prime Rib, Skirt Steak, and Oreo Cheesecake and Chocolate Tarts for dessert.

Reservations are now available through OpenTable and will likely be difficult to come by. Prices are also higher than the other restaurants in Downtown Disney, as ThemeParkSpark highlights, so be warned. Still, it looks like the Carnaby will be the hip place to be at Downtown Disney.

If you have scrolled through social media this week and seen a car go airborne off a chunk of pavement that looks like it grew a speed bump overnight, you are not losing your mind and you are not looking at old footage from a disaster movie. That clip is real, it is from Missouri, and it is making the rounds again because half the country is currently baking under another brutal heat wave. Funny how a year-old video finds new life every time the thermometer decides to be dramatic.

The footage in question shows a section of Siemers Drive in Cape Girardeau buckling right in front of a bystander's camera, sending a car bouncing over a ridge that popped up out of nowhere. A separate clip from the same stretch of weather shows I-44 near Doolittle developing its own unscheduled speed hump in the fast lane. Neither is staged, neither is CGI, and both happened because asphalt and concrete have limits, just like the rest of us on a 100 degree day.

For car folks, this is one of those stories that hits differently than it would for the average commuter. We spend our time thinking about tire pressure, alignment, and suspension geometry, and then the road itself decides to misbehave. It is a good reminder that no matter how well you have your car dialed in, the pavement underneath you is a variable you cannot control.

What Actually Causes a Road to Buckle

Concrete and asphalt expand when they heat up, same as most materials. Under normal conditions there is enough room built into the road design to handle that expansion. Problems start when a wet spring soaks the ground underneath, then a heat wave hits right after. The pavement swells, has nowhere to release that pressure sideways, and pops upward instead.

Missouri Department of Transportation engineers pointed to that exact combination as the likely trigger for the Cape Girardeau incident, calling it a mix of heat, moisture, and gaps in the concrete design working against each other at once.

Not a New Problem, Just a Louder One This Time

Public works officials in Cape Girardeau said buckling happens most summers, usually in small, manageable sections that get patched before anyone notices. This one just happened to be bigger, faster, and caught on camera at the exact right second.

Crews had the Siemers Drive section patched with fresh asphalt within a day, and drivers were back to normal by Monday. The Doolittle stretch on I-44 got similar attention from state crews soon after.

What Drivers Should Actually Watch For

Sudden ridges or bulges in the road surface are the big tell, especially on hot afternoons after a rainy stretch. Slow down if you see uneven pavement ahead, give yourself extra following distance, and report anything that looks like a bulge to local authorities before it turns into a launch ramp. It costs you nothing and might save the next driver a very bad afternoon.

With more heat in the forecast across a good chunk of the country, do not be surprised if this old video keeps resurfacing. The pavement, unfortunately, does not care what year it is.

Scam calls used to be easy to spot. Bad audio, a stranger's voice pretending to be someone else, maybe a foreign accent claiming to be your grandson. You could hang up and move on with your day. That is no longer the case, and a recent incident out of Boone County, Missouri, shows exactly how far this technology has come.

On July 17, 2026, the Boone County Sheriff's Office responded to a call that started like any parent's worst nightmare. A victim picked up the phone, saw their daughter's actual number on the caller ID, and heard what sounded exactly like their daughter's voice. That voice said she had been kidnapped at gunpoint. Another person then got on the line demanding a ransom.

Here is the part that should get everyone's attention: the daughter was never in danger. She was located safe and completely unaware anything had happened, sitting in Jefferson City while her parent back home was being terrorized by a voice generated with artificial intelligence.

Deputies moved fast, coordinated with other agencies, and tracked down the daughter to confirm she was fine. No suspects have been identified or arrested yet, but the sheriff's office says this is the first case of its kind they have personally handled, where AI was used to convincingly mimic a loved one's voice in real time during an extortion attempt.

How This Scam Actually Works

The setup is simple and that is what makes it scary. Scammers can pull a short audio clip of someone's voice from social media, a public video, or even a voicemail greeting, then feed it into AI voice cloning software.

Pair that with a spoofed caller ID showing the real family member's number, and you have got a call that passes every gut check most of us rely on. No static, no weird phrasing, just a familiar voice saying something urgent.

Why the Caller ID Trick Matters

Most people are trained to distrust unknown numbers. This scam flips that logic on its head by making the call look like it is coming from the actual phone in your daughter's or son's pocket.

It removes the one red flag a lot of folks depend on before answering or believing what they hear.

What Law Enforcement Recommends

Boone County deputies suggest a few practical steps if you ever get a call like this. Ask the caller something only your real family member would know, a detail no scammer could look up. Then try to reach that person directly through another phone or method before doing anything else. And if you do get one of these calls, report it to local law enforcement right away, even if nothing ends up happening.

This kind of scam preys on panic, not patience, so having a plan before the phone ever rings is worth more than any amount of caller ID trust.

There are plenty of ways to make a bad situation worse after police try to pull you over. Taking off during rush hour on one of the busiest highways in the country is certainly one of them.

When traffic is already backed up, the last thing anyone expects is a pickup truck flying past them on the shoulder. Unfortunately, that's exactly what Connecticut State Police say happened on Interstate 95.

According to investigators, the driver was already wanted in connection with a suspected larceny and an alleged hit-and-run crash before troopers even spotted the vehicle. What followed was a dangerous pursuit that forced police to bring it to an abrupt end.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported despite the reckless driving. The chase ultimately ended with stop sticks, a brief foot chase, and a list of criminal charges that became much longer than where the incident reportedly began.

The Driver's Escape Attempt Didn't Last Long

Please give the video below a moment to load.

We reposted the video to the Guessing Headlights YouTube channel, where we condensed the content for easier viewing. The short video above shows the moment that the officer was able to successfully deploy the stop sticks on I-95 near Exit 19 to stop the speeding truck.

The truck passes by too fast to really see what happened to it, but you can hear the officer affirm that he successfully hit the target.

Rather than surrender, investigators say the driver got out of the disabled pickup and attempted to run away on foot. That escape didn't last long, as troopers quickly caught up to him after what police described as a brief struggle.

The driver was identified as 62-year-old Glenn London, who was charged with interfering with an officer, reckless endangerment, evading responsibility involving property damage, reckless driving, and engaging police in a pursuit.

Commenters Think the Trooper Could Pitch for the Yankees

Commenters were almost unanimously impressed with the trooper's perfectly timed stop-stick deployment, with many saying it was the highlight of the entire pursuit. Replies like "That's absolutely the best spike strip toss I've ever seen!" and "Hey man, nice shot," referencing the Filter song, quickly became some of the most-liked reactions.

Quite a few people even joked that the trooper had a future in professional sports. One commenter suggested the Yankees should give him a call, while another asked if he was available to pitch in a local softball tournament, calling it "a perfect toss from about 12 feet away."

Others praised both the Connecticut State Police and Norwalk Police Department for safely ending the chase, while several criticized the state's court system, arguing repeat offenders shouldn't be released back onto the streets so quickly. A handful of viewers were also left wanting more, saying they wished the video included the rest of the pursuit and the suspect's arrest after the truck came to a stop.

Some road trips end with a flat tire and a bad gas station sandwich. This one ended with a family in Alabama getting their dog back after seven years of thinking she was gone for good, and honestly, it's the kind of story that makes even the most jaded car guy set down his coffee for a minute.

The Jones family adopted a puppy named Copper when she was just four weeks old, reported WESH. A few months later, she vanished, and the family believes she was stolen along with one of her littermates. They spent about a week driving around the neighborhood looking for her, checking every yard and side street, before finally accepting she was probably gone.

What they didn't know was that Copper had ended up hundreds of miles away in Port Orange, Florida, a trip that would've taken most of a day behind the wheel if someone had simply loaded her in a car and driven her there. However she made the journey, she spent years living rough, far from home and far from anyone who knew her name.

That changed when a woman named Jennifer Baker found Copper wandering near Commonwealth Boulevard and decided to take her in. What Baker discovered was a dog in rough shape, and what happened next is a reminder that sometimes the smallest piece of technology does more work than any search party ever could.

A Trail Gone Cold

For seven years, the Jones family had no leads and no reason to think Copper was still alive. That's the part of these stories that always gets me.

A missing pet doesn't leave a paper trail like a stolen car does. There's no license plate to run, no VIN to trace, just an empty collar and a lot of unanswered questions.

Found Off Commonwealth Boulevard

When Baker found Copper, the dog's condition told the story of those seven hard years. Her nails had grown into the pads of her feet, and she had infections across her back.

Baker spent two weeks nursing her before deciding to get her checked out properly.

The Microchip Did What Bloodhounds Couldn't

Baker took Copper to a veterinarian for a scan, and that's where this story really turns. A microchip works a lot like a VIN plate riveted to a frame rail. It doesn't care how far the dog traveled, how many years passed, or how much she'd changed.

It just quietly waits to tell the truth. The scan pulled up the Jones family's information immediately, and Baker made the call that changed everything.

Home Again, Mile by Mile

The reunion happened fast after that. Copper recognized her family the moment she heard them call her name, ears perking up before she wagged her tail and walked over on her own.

She's now back home in Alabama, working through treatment for years of neglect. Her owners say the vet bills have added up, but every one of them has been worth it to have her back where she belongs.

What do you do when your own pet decides to lock you out of your own car? Relax, and calm down. It's probably not on purpose, unless you forgot to feed them. Or maybe they're mad because you haven't been giving them enough attention lately. One couple staying at a hotel in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, messed around and found out when their cat kept them from getting in their car. Perhaps it was just a funny "accident" that their cat didn't mean to do at all, for literally no reason, because cats are innocent. 

Either way, the couple found themselves needing help on July 17 after their own pet turned a routine stop into a police call. Their Maine Coon was waiting inside the car. The couple was outside and the doors were locked. And you can probably figure out the rest: they couldn't get inside the car to the cat. So they did what any self-respecting cat owner would do: they called the police.

Lawrenceburg Police Chief Bryan Taylor responded and unlocked the vehicle, according to WKYT. Once the door was open, the couple and their “troublemaking cat” were able to leave. The cat had somehow managed to create an impenetrable auto barrier that its owners couldn't work past, and it ended up turning into a hilarious situation that the Lawrenceburg Police Department joked about online.

Sure, it was a small rescue, and maybe the couple's feline overlord was just playing around. But the very large cat somehow keeping its owners out may be one of the funniest police stops you'll hear about in the near future. But just because it's funny to us doesn't mean something like this can't happen that might actively hurt an animal in a similar situation.

What To Do If A Pet Gets Locked In A Car

Sure, a pet lockout isn't a huge deal when the door gets opened quickly. It might even be funny if you're the person locked out. But it can become serious fast though when temperatures are high, the animal in question is trapped for too long, or the pet appears distressed. That's when you need to take some action.

Your first concern should always be the animal’s condition. If the pet is panting heavily, drooling, vomiting, collapsing, acting disoriented, or showing signs of panic, the situation should be treated as urgent. It might seem obvious, but keep in mind that a parked vehicle can heat up quickly, even when the day doesn't feel that extreme.

The safest move is to call for help right away if you can't get the door open. Depending on the situation, that may mean police, firefighters, animal control, roadside assistance, or even a locksmith has to step in. Do whatever you have to do to make sure you get access, and the pet can get to safety.

A viral video of a FedEx deliveryman falling into a front yard pool outside a Georgia home may have given him an unexpected way to cool off in the summer heat.

The light-hearted video has also made many people laugh. However, it also highlights what can unfold if one is distracted by a phone screen while moving, even for just a few seconds.

Apply the same scenario while driving, and it won't be difficult to realize what a few seconds of smartphone distraction can lead to.

Distracted driving is a serious concern today, given that thousands of motorists die every year due to this problem.

FedEx Driver Gets Relief From Heat, But His Phone May Not Have Survived

Lyndsey DeLitta's camera captured the funny incident, and the video has been shared by ABC7 Eyewitness News on X. Soon after the FedEx deliveryman delivered the package, he was walking backwards while using his smartphone, unaware that a pool lay behind him.

The inevitable happened. The man fell with significant force, splashing water all around him. He was holding the smartphone in his right hand, which went straight into the water. It is not known if the device was waterproof; if not, it likely suffered internal water damage.

The deliveryman received quite a surprise on a hot day, and immediately said after getting back to his feet, "I needed that." The video caption revealed that the driver moved back to take a photo of the delivered parcel when he fell into the pool.

DeLitta told Storyful that she saw the footage of the FedEx deliveryman falling into the pool while she was at work. She wrote: 

"I was at work and started dying laughing. It has made many people laugh over and over." 

While this incident could be seen as just something to laugh about, it shows how even a moment's distraction from a digital device can compromise awareness and lead to serious consequences.

This is especially applicable to distracted drivers, who use their smartphones while driving and sometimes end up in regrettable situations.

A FedEx driver got some necessary relief from the Georgia heat after tumbling into a front yard pool outside a home. Home security footage shows the moment the driver fell while walking backwards to take a confirmation photo. Despite the tumble, the driver kept his cool, joking… pic.twitter.com/Z7BwzWD3yx

— ABC7 Eyewitness News (@ABC7) July 17, 2026

Distracted Driving Caused the Deaths of Over 3,000 People in 2024

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving is anything that takes away a driver's attention from the road, be it "texting on your phone, eating and drinking, talking to people in your vehicle, fiddling with the stereo, entertainment or navigation system."

To give drivers an idea of what a few seconds of distracted driving actually means, the NHTSA stated:

"Texting is the most alarming distraction. Sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that's like driving the length of an entire football field with your eyes closed."

In 2024, distracted driving claimed 3,208 lives, while 315,167 people were left injured. The NHTSA added:

"You cannot drive safely unless the task of driving has your full attention. Any non-driving activity you engage in is a potential distraction and increases your risk of crashing."

Los Angeles drivers dealt with quite the detour early Saturday morning after a Tesla Cybertruck driver led law enforcement on a chase that stretched across multiple freeways before finally coming to an end against a tree near Chatsworth. If you were wondering why your commute felt a little off this morning, this is likely why.

The incident kicked off around 1:45 a.m. in the West LA area, reported KTLA 5, when officers reportedly suspected the driver of being under the influence. Instead of pulling over, the driver decided to turn a routine traffic stop into a multi-freeway odyssey, with both LAPD and the California Highway Patrol joining in on the pursuit. Anyone who has spent time on LA freeways at night knows they can feel eerily empty, which probably made this whole thing look like something out of a movie chase scene, minus the stunt coordinators.

Eventually, the chase wound its way to the DeSoto off-ramp on the 118 westbound, where the Cybertruck's run came to an abrupt stop after colliding with a tree. From there, things shifted from a chase to a standoff, which shut down that stretch of roadway while officers worked to safely take the driver into custody. The driver was ultimately arrested, though further details on charges have not been released.

It is worth noting that Cybertrucks have developed a reputation, fair or not, for showing up in headlines for reasons that have nothing to do with towing capacity or acceleration numbers. This latest incident is unlikely to help shake that reputation, though the vehicle itself was simply along for the ride here. The real story is about the decisions made behind the wheel, not the badge on the hood.

A Chase That Spanned Multiple Freeways

What stands out about this pursuit is just how far it traveled. Starting in West LA and ending all the way out near Chatsworth on the 118 is no short trip, even at 2 a.m. with lighter traffic.

That kind of distance means multiple agencies had to coordinate in real time, which is no small feat when a suspected impaired driver is behind the wheel of a nearly 6,800-pound vehicle with a stainless steel exterior built to shrug off more than your average sedan.

The Standoff at DeSoto

Once the Cybertruck met its match in the form of a stationary tree, the situation shifted into a standoff.

These moments tend to require patience from law enforcement, since safety for both officers and the suspect becomes the priority once the vehicle is no longer moving.

What We Still Don't Know

At this point, official details on DUI charges, the driver's identity, and any additional citations have not been released.

We will update this story if more information becomes available.