News without the noise · New York Edition
Wednesday, March 18, 2026 · 35 stories
A Queens mother has filed a lawsuit against New York City after her baby was removed without a court order. The case highlights a broader issue, as city data indicates over 1,300 children are separated from their parents annually through such administrative actions.
A new mandate requires the NYPD to release body camera footage within 30 days, addressing previous delays. This policy change aims to increase transparency in police interactions with the public.
Erin Dalton, who is starting her job as New York City’s social services chief, laid out her plans to tackle homelessness, benefit cuts and a budget gap in an interview.
Mayor Zohran Mamdani has unveiled a plan to address New York City's housing crisis by making it easier for homeowners to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) on their properties. The initiative includes an online library of pre-approved designs, a cost-estimator tool, financing assistance up to $395,000, and a streamlined application process through the revived Plus One ADU Program. However, NYC Councilmember Frank Morano has criticized the plan as short-sighted, arguing it lacks necessary infrastructure investments in areas like sewers, schools, and traffic mitigation.
An off-duty NYPD officer shot a 30-year-old man in the head in Kingsbridge, Bronx, leaving the victim in critical condition. The officer, who has been suspended without pay, believed the man was involved in stealing his vehicle, according to police sources. The investigation is ongoing, with no charges filed yet.
A 30-year-old mother of three was stabbed multiple times in an unprovoked attack by a masked assailant in Elmhurst, Queens, while waiting to cross a street near a bus stop before sunrise. The NYPD has released surveillance video of the suspect, who fled the scene, and is actively searching for the individual. The victim is hospitalized with stab wounds to her arm and back, and her family is calling for justice as police continue their investigation.
Israel's defense minister announced the elimination of Iran's intelligence minister in an airstrike on Tehran, part of a broader campaign targeting senior Iranian officials. The strike follows the deaths of other top security figures, with Iran's president condemning the action and vowing continued resistance. Over 1,300 people have reportedly been killed in Israeli and U.S. strikes on Iran since the conflict began in late February.
A 61-year-old woman was killed when a ski gondola detached from its cable and crashed down a mountain at the Engelberg resort in Switzerland. The incident occurred during strong winds exceeding 80km/h, conditions under which the service is normally suspended, and is under investigation by local police.
Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand has drafted principles for a collective G7 and Middle East approach to de-escalating the Iran war, aiming to reduce the risk of regional spillover and wider shocks. She discussed these efforts during a meeting with UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper in London.
A soccer team composed of grandmothers in central Kenya aims to promote fitness and provide inspiration to local teenagers through athletic activities.