A Florida mom sued Character.AI, a lifelike AI chat service, for her 14-year-old son’s suicide linked to a harmful dependency on the program. Sewell’s mental health deteriorated after engaging with AI bots, particularly a Game of Thrones-based one. The lawsuit details a tragic final conversation before his suicide in February 2024. (People)
California produce company Taylor Farms was identified as the source of fresh onions linked to a fatal E. coli outbreak at McDonald’s. The outbreak, which affected at least 49 people in 10 states, led to the removal of onions from menus at fast-food chains including Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, KFC, and Burger King. The FDA is investigating the outbreak. (AP)
A study from the Keller Advisory Group revealed that 27 million paid content creators exist in the U.S., with 12 million working full-time as influencers. Average creators earned $93,000 annually in 2023, though half made less than $10,000. The study surveyed nearly 6,000 Americans and 1,045 content creators. (Complex)
The FAA announced nearly $1 billion in grants for upgrades to more than 100 airports in 46 U.S. states and territories. The investments aim to improve airport infrastructure, enhance safety, and create job opportunities. Projects will include accessibility improvements, baggage system upgrades, and larger security checkpoints. (UPI)
With early voting underway in many places nationwide, more than 28 million early votes cast. Democrats are leading in mail-in votes, while Republicans have cast more in-person ballots. Early voting numbers have set records in North Carolina and Georgia, and party breakdowns do not necessarily forecast election outcomes. (CBS News)
