Update for Monday

13 May 2013

A mass shooting in New Orleans has injured a dozen people including a young child. In other news, a fundraiser is being held for homemade bomb victim Michael Boggan.

Mass shooting at Mother’s Day Parade in New Orleans

Twelve people have been shot in New Orleans as the city celebrated Mother’s Day. The youngest victim is said to be between 10 and 12 years old. There are no reports of fatalities. Read more on ABC News or see how the New Orleans press are reporting on the shooting.

Fundraiser for homemade bomb victim

A fundraiser has been organised for Michael Boggan who lost six fingers and suffered serious injuries when a homemade bomb exploded in his hands in Ipswich on Friday afternoon. The Ipswich and wider Queensland and Australian communities have rallied around the teenager who faces further operations. Read more.

Cruise ship fall was not suicide

The family of Kristen Schroder, missing off the coast of NSW after allegedly falling off a cruise liner’s deck, has said the young woman was not intoxicated and would not have jumped. News.com.au has more details. 

Brain damage crisis looming

Researchers in Adelaide are investigating links between the high use of stimulants and brain damage including Parkinson’s disease. The high rate of stimulant abuse in Australia has prompted fears of a looming crisis. Read more.

Free breast screen program

Health Minister Tanya Plibersek announced a $55 million boost to the national breast screening program as thousands of Australians took part in fun runs to celebrate Mother’s Day and raise money for breast cancer research. The free service is currently only available to women aged 50 to 69. The new funding will allow the program to cover 70-74 year old women as well. ABC News has more on the upcoming federal budget.

Brothers unaware of kidnappings

The two brothers of Ariel Castro have denied any knowledge of the kidnap and rape of three women discovered in Castro’s home last week. Both Pedro and Onil claim they would have reported the crime, despite the alleged perpetrator being their brother. See what they had to say on Ninemsn.com.au.

Nine people questioned over Turkey bombing

More than 43 people were killed and 100 others wounded in twin bombings on the Turkish border with Syria on Saturday. Turkish police have arrested nine people in relation to the deadliest attack in Turkey in recent years. Sky News has more.