Clark County Coroner Melanie Rouse announced the identification on October 15, while Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department homicide investigators said they were continuing to seek information about Jackson’s killing. Authorities believe he was in his mid- to late 50s when he died, and they have placed the estimated time of death between the mid-1970s and early 1980s.

The identification resolves a central question in the case: the victim’s identity. It does not establish who killed him, why he was killed or why his remains were left at the lake.

How investigators identified Jackson

Boaters discovered the barrel near Hemenway Harbor on May 1, 2022, after falling water levels exposed previously submerged shoreline. Investigators determined that the man had suffered a gunshot wound to the head and classified the death as a homicide.

Clark County’s original public appeal documented the early identification effort. Authorities released facial-approximation images created by the FBI laboratory in Quantico, Virginia, and entered the case information into the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System, known as NamUs.

The coroner’s office also pursued DNA-based identification. According to the account given by officials at the October 15 announcement, an early genealogy-profile lead did not produce a sufficiently strong match. Oklahoma State University’s School of Forensic Sciences later developed a stronger lead, followed by comparison with a person believed to be a family member.

Officials said the resulting genetic evidence established Jackson’s identity. The full laboratory documentation and underlying comparison records have not been independently examined for this report, so the precise technical methodology and its limitations cannot be assessed here.

A life spanning several states

Investigators said Jackson was from Hot Springs, Arkansas, and had connections to other parts of the United States, including California and Utah.

Family members told investigators that Jackson enjoyed traveling and could appear unexpectedly before leaving again. Relatives had not reported him missing, according to the account given by police, because his independent travel was familiar to them.

That history helps explain why identifying him was difficult: investigators were working from unidentified remains without a conventional missing-person report that clearly matched the victim.

Police also described a brief criminal history in Utah in the early 1980s, including charges involving aggravated arson and conspiracy to commit fraud. That information does not establish a motive for the homicide or a connection between Jackson and any person suspected of killing him.

His precise movements before his death, the reason he was in the Las Vegas area and the people he may have encountered remain unresolved.

Organized-crime theories remain unproven

The barrel discovery revived speculation about a possible connection to organized crime because the method of concealing the body recalled cases associated with Las Vegas’s earlier mob era.

Investigators have not identified evidence directly linking Jackson’s killing to organized crime, according to statements attributed to homicide investigators at the identification announcement. Police have not ruled out that possibility, but they have not established it as an explanation.

The distinction is important. The way a body was concealed, the historical period in which a killing occurred and a victim’s criminal history cannot independently establish who committed a homicide or why.

No verified evidence reviewed for this article identifies a suspect or demonstrates that organized crime was involved.

The homicide investigation continues

Identifying Jackson gives investigators a name around which to build a more complete account of his life and final movements. It may also help investigators locate people who knew him, recall his travels or possess information that was never connected to the unidentified-victim case.

But the identification is a step in the investigation, not its conclusion. Authorities have not publicly established the killer, a motive or the precise circumstances that brought Jackson to Lake Mead.

Lake Mead homicide case remains open, and investigators are asking anyone with relevant information about Jackson or his death to contact the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s Homicide Section at 702-828-3521. People wishing to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers at 702-385-5555.

The case began with unidentified remains and a homicide that had gone unexplained for decades. Investigators now know the victim’s identity. The central questions—who killed Jackson, why, and how he came to be at Lake Mead—remain unanswered.

Reporting Credit: Clark County Office of the Coroner/Medical Examiner’s original unidentified-victim case announcement; statements attributed to Clark County Coroner Melanie Rouse and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Homicide Lt. Robert Price concerning the October 15, 2026, identification announcement. The original October 15 briefing transcript and laboratory records were not independently obtained for this report.

The post Lake Mead Barrel Homicide Victim Identified After More Than Four Years appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

A Clark County jury convicted Davis, 63, of first-degree murder with use of a deadly weapon in August. The judge imposed consecutive terms of 20 years to life for the murder and 20 years to life for the deadly-weapon enhancement.

Davis is the only person charged in connection with Shakur’s killing. Prosecutors argued that he helped organize the drive-by shooting and supplied the gun, although they did not establish that he personally fired the fatal shots.

Davis has indicated that he intends to appeal the conviction. His attorney, Michael Sanft, also said the defense would pursue an appeal.

The sentence follows an investigation that remained unresolved for decades. It does not, however, settle every question about the shooting or establish the guilt of other people mentioned during the investigation.

Judge Imposes Consecutive Prison Terms

The sentence requires Davis to serve the two terms consecutively rather than at the same time. The resulting punishment is 40 years to life in prison.

During the sentencing hearing, Judge Carli Kierny addressed the harm caused by Shakur’s death and the lasting impact on his family. She emphasized that the killing deprived Shakur’s loved ones of his future as well as his life.

Prosecutors argued that Davis helped arrange the attack after a confrontation involving Shakur’s entourage and Davis’s nephew, Orlando “Baby Lane” Anderson, earlier that night.

Davis’s conviction established his criminal responsibility under the jury’s verdict. It did not establish that he was the person who pulled the trigger.

Reports of the sentencing said Davis would not be eligible for parole until he was at least 100, taking account of the sentence and credit for time already served. The precise calculation should be checked against the sentencing order and applicable corrections records.

Tupac Shakur Was Shot in Las Vegas in 1996

Shakur was 25 when a gunman shot him on September 7, 1996, as he rode in a BMW driven by Death Row Records executive Marion “Suge” Knight.

The shooting took place near the Las Vegas Strip, after an altercation at the MGM Grand casino involving members of rival Los Angeles-area gangs. Shakur died six days later, on September 13, at a Las Vegas hospital.

The killing became closely associated with the tensions surrounding the hip-hop industry in the 1990s, including the rivalry between artists and groups linked to the East Coast and West Coast rap scenes.

Shakur had become one of the era’s most influential rappers, known for songs addressing violence, poverty, inequality and life in marginalized communities. His death left a lasting mark on music and popular culture.

Investigators did not make an arrest in the murder for more than 27 years. Davis’s arrest in 2023 reopened the case as a criminal prosecution and ultimately led to the trial that produced his conviction.

Prosecutors Relied on Davis’s Own Accounts

The prosecution relied heavily on Davis’s statements about the shooting. Those included media interviews, statements to law enforcement and his 2019 memoir, Compton Street Legend.

In those accounts, Davis described being in the vehicle involved in the attack and said Anderson was the gunman. Prosecutors argued that Davis helped organize the retaliation and supplied the firearm used in the shooting.

The accounts became central to the case because investigators had limited physical evidence directly connecting Davis to the killing, according to trial coverage.

Davis’s defense challenged the reliability of his statements. His lawyer argued that Davis had exaggerated or embellished accounts for attention and financial gain, and disputed the strength of the evidence linking him to the murder.

The jury nevertheless found Davis guilty of first-degree murder with use of a deadly weapon. That verdict, rather than any individual claim in his interviews or memoir, forms the legal basis for the sentence.

The Gunman’s Identity Remains Unresolved

Davis identified his nephew Anderson as the person who fired the shots. Anderson denied involvement before his death in 1998.

Prosecutors argued that Davis helped set the attack in motion, but the public record does not establish a separate legal finding that Anderson was the gunman.

That distinction remains important. Davis’s conviction establishes his responsibility for the crime under the jury’s verdict, not the guilt of every person he named or who appeared in accounts of the shooting.

No other person has been charged in Shakur’s murder. Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson has said prosecutors do not currently have sufficient evidence to bring additional charges, while leaving open the possibility of further action if new evidence emerges.

The sentence therefore concludes the current prosecution against Davis, but it does not necessarily close every investigative question surrounding the killing.

Shakur’s Family Describes the Lasting Loss

Shakur’s sister, Sekyiwa Shakur, addressed the court during the sentencing hearing and described the continuing pain of losing her brother. His brother, Maurice “Mopreme” Shakur, also spoke about the impact of the killing on the family.

Their statements reflected the loss experienced by relatives who spent decades waiting for a criminal case to reach a verdict.

For Shakur’s family, the sentencing followed years of uncertainty over whether anyone would be held criminally responsible. The conviction and prison term provide a formal legal outcome in a case that had remained unsolved for decades.

The sentence does not reverse the loss or answer every disputed question about the attack. It does establish that a jury found Davis guilty and that a judge has now imposed a lengthy prison term.

Davis Plans to Appeal

Davis has indicated that he intends to challenge the conviction. His attorney also said the defense would appeal.

An intention to appeal is not the same as a filed appeal, and it does not change the status of the conviction. The available reporting reviewed for this article did not establish that an appellate court had overturned the verdict or that the sentence had been stayed.

Any appeal would need to proceed through the applicable Nevada courts. The defense may challenge legal rulings or other aspects of the trial, but the specific grounds and filing status should be confirmed from court records.

Until a court rules otherwise, Davis remains convicted and sentenced.

A Major Legal Milestone, Not Every Answer

The sentence marks a significant development in the long-running case. Davis was convicted after prosecutors used his own accounts to argue that he helped organize the attack that killed Shakur.

The defense disputed the reliability of those accounts and argued that the physical evidence was insufficient. The jury ultimately accepted the prosecution’s case and returned a guilty verdict.

Questions remain about the precise role of other individuals and the identity of the person who fired the fatal shots. Prosecutors have not announced additional charges, and the defense intends to appeal.

For now, Davis has received a sentence of 40 years to life for his role in Shakur’s murder. The case has reached a major legal milestone, while the appeal process and any future investigative developments remain separate matters.

Reporting Credit: Clark County District Court records and the Clark County District Attorney’s Office were not directly available for independent review during preparation of this report.

The post Duane ‘Keffe D’ Davis Gets 40 Years to Life for Tupac Shakur Murder appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

The 63-year-old former South Side Compton Crips leader was found guilty Monday after jurors deliberated for less than three hours following a weekslong trial in Clark County District Court.

Davis was prosecuted for murder with a deadly weapon, based on allegations that he helped organize the drive-by shooting rather than personally firing the fatal shots. Under Nevada law, prosecutors could hold him responsible for his role in orchestrating the killing.

First conviction in Tupac’s murder

The verdict marks the first criminal conviction connected to Shakur’s September 1996 killing.

For nearly 30 years, the case remained one of the most prominent unsolved murders in American popular culture. Shakur was 25 when he was shot in Las Vegas after attending a Mike Tyson boxing match with Death Row Records co-founder Marion “Suge” Knight. He died six days later.

Davis was arrested and charged in 2023, becoming the only person formally prosecuted in connection with the shooting.

Prosecutors relied heavily on Davis’ own words

The prosecution’s case centered largely on statements Davis made over many years.

In interviews, documentaries, a 2019 memoir and recordings made during interactions with investigators, Davis repeatedly acknowledged being inside the white Cadillac involved in the shooting and described obtaining a firearm and passing it toward people in the back seat.

Prosecutors argued that the accounts, despite inconsistencies, consistently placed Davis at the center of the retaliation attack.

They said the shooting followed an earlier confrontation at the MGM Grand involving Shakur, Knight and Orlando “Baby Lane” Anderson, Davis’ nephew.

Defense argued Davis was exaggerating

Davis’ defense maintained that his statements were not reliable evidence of murder.

Attorney Michael Sanft argued that Davis had exaggerated his involvement over the years for money, publicity and personal protection.

The defense emphasized the lack of independent physical evidence placing Davis in Las Vegas or inside the Cadillac on the night Shakur was shot, including the absence of surviving surveillance footage and certain records that could have corroborated his account.

Davis did not testify during the trial.

Prosecutors did not identify the shooter

The verdict does not establish that Davis personally pulled the trigger.

Prosecutors accused him of organizing the attack and providing the gun, but they did not identify the person who fired the fatal shots.

Anderson, who had long been identified in various accounts as a possible shooter, was killed in an unrelated shooting in 1998. The other men believed to have been in the Cadillac have also died.

Davis was therefore the only surviving person known to have been inside the vehicle from which the shots were fired.

Shakur family reacts in court

Shakur’s sister, Sekyiwa “Set” Shakur, was in the courtroom when the verdict was announced.

She cried and hugged members of the prosecution team after Davis was found guilty. Davis’ son was also present and covered his face with his hand following the verdict.

The conviction closes a major chapter in a case that has remained deeply significant to Shakur’s family, fans and the wider hip-hop community.

Sentencing is next

Davis now faces sentencing, with the conviction carrying the possibility of life in prison. His attorneys have indicated that he intends to appeal.

The verdict does not answer every question surrounding Shakur’s death, particularly who fired the weapon.

But it establishes the first criminal finding of responsibility in the case and formally ends decades of uncertainty over whether anyone would ever be held accountable in court.

What Happens Next

Davis will proceed to sentencing in Clark County District Court. He is expected to appeal the conviction.

The case remains significant beyond the verdict because the identity of the person who actually fired the fatal shots has never been established in court.

Key Facts

• Defendant: Duane “Keffe D” Davis
• Age: 63
• Victim: Tupac Shakur
• Killing: September 7, 1996
• Verdict: Guilty of first-degree murder
• Role alleged by prosecutors: Orchestrating the shooting
• Shooter: Not identified in court
• Jury deliberations: Less than three hours
• Possible sentence: Life in prison
• Appeal: Expected
• Status: GUILTY VERDICT — SENTENCING PENDING

Reporting Credit: Eighth Judicial District Court of Nevada, Clark County — trial proceedings and verdict; Clark County District Attorney’s Office — prosecution and trial evidence; Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department — homicide investigation and case records.

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Davis, 63, faces one count of murder with a deadly weapon with the intent to promote, further or assist a criminal gang. He has pleaded not guilty and faces a possible life sentence if convicted.

After closing arguments, Judge Carli Kierny is expected to turn the case over to the jury for deliberations.

Prosecutors say Davis orchestrated the attack

Prosecutors do not allege that Davis personally fired the shots that killed Shakur.

Instead, they say Davis was the leader who organized the attack and supplied the gun to members of the group traveling with him in a white Cadillac.

The prosecution’s case rests heavily on Davis’ own statements over the years. Investigators played recordings of interviews and conversations in which Davis described being in the Cadillac, obtaining the firearm and handing it toward the back seat before the shooting.

Prosecutors argue that those accounts amount to admissions of his involvement and are consistent enough to establish his role in the killing.

Under Nevada law, prosecutors do not have to prove that Davis personally pulled the trigger if they establish that he intentionally helped facilitate the murder.

Defense attacks Davis’ credibility

Defense attorney Michael Sanft has presented a fundamentally different explanation.

He argues that Davis exaggerated his involvement for money, publicity and notoriety, and that his accounts cannot be trusted simply because he repeatedly told versions of the story.

The defense has emphasized the absence of physical evidence independently placing Davis in Las Vegas at the time of the shooting.

Retired Las Vegas homicide detective Dan Long, who interviewed Davis in 2009, testified that he believed Davis’ account but acknowledged that investigators were unable to independently verify several important details.

Davis did not testify during the trial.

The 1996 shooting

Shakur was in Las Vegas on September 7, 1996, attending a Mike Tyson boxing match at the MGM Grand with Death Row Records co-founder Marion “Suge” Knight.

Earlier that evening, Shakur’s entourage became involved in a confrontation with Orlando “Baby Lane” Anderson, Davis’ nephew and a member of a rival gang.

Prosecutors say the confrontation provided the motive for the subsequent attack.

Later that night, Shakur and Knight were traveling in a BMW when a white Cadillac pulled alongside them near the Las Vegas Strip.

Gunfire erupted.

Shakur was struck multiple times and died six days later at age 25. Knight survived the shooting after suffering injuries.

The shooter remains unidentified

One of the most significant unresolved questions is who actually fired the fatal shots.

Prosecutors have not identified the shooter in court.

Davis has provided varying accounts over the years. In some versions, he identified Anderson as the gunman; in others, he said he did not know who fired the shots. Anderson died in an unrelated shooting in 1998. The other two men believed to have been in the Cadillac have also died.

Davis is therefore the only surviving person known to have been inside the Cadillac.

Davis’ words are the centerpiece of the case

Prosecutors presented hours of recordings during the trial.

Those recordings included police interviews, documentary appearances, other public statements and conversations with investigators.

Davis also co-authored the 2019 memoir “Compton Street Legend,” in which he described his involvement in the events surrounding Shakur’s death.

The prosecution argues that the repeated nature of Davis’ accounts makes it difficult to dismiss them as simple boasting.

The defense says the opposite: that the inconsistencies demonstrate why the statements should not be treated as reliable confessions.

Physical evidence remains a major issue

The defense has repeatedly pointed to the lack of physical evidence connecting Davis directly to the crime.

Long testified that investigators could not independently establish that Davis was in the Cadillac that night through records such as phone data or rental records.

Investigators also discussed a Las Vegas hotel bill discovered at Davis’ residence, but questions remained about its date and the current location of the evidence.

That evidentiary gap is likely to be central to the defense’s closing argument.

The prosecution, meanwhile, is expected to argue that the age of the case explains why investigators have fewer physical records than would be available in a modern homicide investigation.

A gang rivalry sits behind the prosecution’s theory

Prosecutors have also presented evidence about the violent rivalry between the South Side Compton Crips and the Mob Piru gang, which was associated with Shakur and Death Row Records.

A former gang investigator testified that Davis was a senior figure whose authority could influence whether younger members carried out violent acts.

The prosecution’s theory is that the confrontation involving Anderson created an immediate motive for retaliation.

The defense disputes that Davis’ alleged position or past statements are enough to prove that he organized the killing.

Jury faces a credibility question

The trial ultimately presents jurors with competing interpretations of the same central evidence.

The prosecution says Davis repeatedly described his role in the shooting because he was telling the truth.

The defense says he repeatedly described his role because he benefited from telling sensational stories about one of the most famous unsolved killings in music history.

The jury must determine whether the evidence proves Davis’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

What Happens Next

Closing arguments will be followed by jury instructions from Judge Kierny and deliberations by the jury.

A verdict could provide the first criminal judgment in the nearly three-decade-old investigation into Shakur’s killing.

Regardless of the outcome, the case has already become one of the most closely watched criminal trials in hip-hop history.

Key Facts

• Defendant: Duane “Keffe D” Davis
• Age: 63
• Charge: Murder with a deadly weapon involving criminal-gang activity
• Victim: Tupac Shakur
• Killing: September 7, 1996
• Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
• Shakur’s age at death: 25
• Davis’ plea: Not guilty
• Prosecution witnesses: 24
• Defense witnesses: 3
• Alleged shooter: Not identified by prosecutors
• Closing arguments: August 31, 2026
• Next stage: Jury deliberations
• Status: TRIAL — CLOSING ARGUMENTS

Reporting Credit: Eighth Judicial District Court of Nevada, Clark County — trial proceedings and court rulings; Clark County District Attorney’s Office — prosecution; Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department — homicide investigation.

The post Closing Arguments Begin in Trial of Man Accused of Orchestrating Tupac Shakur Killing appeared first on Journos News - Breaking News, World News, Top Stories, Todays Headlines and Flash Reports.

The highly anticipated rematch ended in unexpected fashion after McGregor appeared to injure his knee while attempting a jumping scissor kick moments after the opening bell. The injury brought an abrupt conclusion to an event that had otherwise delivered a series of decisive finishes and competitive contests across the main card.

McGregor’s injury ends main event prematurely

McGregor immediately attempted an explosive attack to open the contest, but appeared to damage his knee upon landing. Although he tried to continue, he lost his footing twice as the injury visibly affected his movement.

Holloway briefly looked toward referee Mike Beltran as McGregor struggled to remain upright. After the fighters resumed exchanging strikes, Holloway landed a kick that caused McGregor to retreat awkwardly before the referee stopped the bout at 1:09 of the opening round.

The result gave Holloway a victory in the long-awaited rematch, although the contest concluded without either fighter having the opportunity to establish sustained offense. UFC President Dana White has not announced Holloway’s next opponent, but the promotion noted that a future matchup with newly crowned lightweight champion Justin Gaethje could become a leading option.

Paddy Pimblett submits Benoit Saint Denis in under one minute

The co-main event produced one of the fastest finishes of the evening as Paddy Pimblett submitted Benoit Saint Denis with a D’arce choke just 52 seconds into the opening round.

Saint Denis initiated an early takedown attempt before Pimblett immediately threatened with a guillotine and smoothly transitioned to the fight-ending choke. The submission rendered the French lightweight unconscious, marking the most emphatic victory of Pimblett’s UFC career.

The performance further strengthens Pimblett’s standing among the lightweight division’s leading contenders as he continues his rise toward championship contention.

Mario Bautista earns unanimous decision over Cory Sandhagen

Mario Bautista secured a unanimous decision victory over Cory Sandhagen, with all three judges scoring the contest 29-28 in his favor.

Sandhagen controlled much of the striking during the opening round before Bautista threatened with a Suloev stretch submission that appeared to limit Sandhagen’s mobility for the remainder of the fight.

Although Sandhagen responded effectively during the second round, Bautista increased his pressure late in the contest and scored a knockdown in the third round to secure the judges’ decision. The victory avenged an earlier career loss to Sandhagen and is expected to improve Bautista’s position in the UFC bantamweight rankings.

Royval submits Kavanagh after back-and-forth battle

Brandon Royval defeated Lone’er Kavanagh by rear-naked choke at 3:39 of the third round in what proved to be one of the night’s most entertaining contests.

Royval controlled much of the opening round with his reach and jab before Kavanagh rallied in the second, dropping the veteran with a clean strike. The third round featured sustained exchanges before Kavanagh attempted a guillotine that allowed Royval to reverse position and secure the submission victory.

The result reinforced Royval’s status among the UFC’s top flyweight contenders after an action-filled contest that showcased both fighters’ offensive abilities.

King Green rallies to stop Terrance McKinney

King Green completed a dramatic comeback by stopping Terrance McKinney with strikes at 4:59 of the opening round.

McKinney dominated much of the first round through aggressive striking, a takedown, and sustained ground control while pursuing multiple submission attempts. Green survived the sustained attack before regaining his footing in the closing seconds of the round.

A late offensive surge saw Green hurt McKinney with body shots before finishing the contest moments before the horn. The victory extended Green’s winning streak to four fights and marked his third consecutive finish inside the distance.

The main card concluded an event that featured numerous finishes throughout the evening, although McGregor’s injury brought an unexpected end to one of the UFC’s most anticipated rematches.

Reporting Credit: This report is based on reporting by UFC.

Article Topics: UFC 329 | Max Holloway | Conor McGregor | Paddy Pimblett | Brandon Royval | Mario Bautista | King Green | MMA

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After last year’s 25th-anniversary celebration in Miami, the 26th Annual Latin Grammy Awards return to Las Vegas, bringing Latin music’s biggest night back to the MGM Grand Garden Arena. The ceremony, set for Thursday evening, promises a spectacular showcase of top talent, new categories, and milestone performances.

Bad Bunny Dominates the 2025 Nominations

Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny once again takes center stage, leading this year’s Latin Grammy nominations with 12 nods, solidifying his position as one of the most influential artists in global music. His record-breaking nominations surpass those of Édgar Barrera, the prolific Mexican-American producer and songwriter known for his collaborations with artists like Madonna, Karol G, Peso Pluma, Shakira, and Grupo Frontera.

Barrera, who topped the list in both 2023 and 2024, follows closely this year with 10 nominations, sharing the second spot with Argentine hip-hop duo CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso, whose genre-bending sound continues to push boundaries in Latin urban music.

How and When to Watch

The 2025 Latin Grammy Awards will broadcast live from Las Vegas on TelevisaUnivision’s U.S. platforms at 8 p.m. Eastern Time, with an hourlong pre-show beginning at 7 p.m. Eastern.

For fans eager to catch the glamour before the ceremony, The Associated Press will host a red carpet livestream on YouTube and APNews.com starting at 5 p.m. Eastern, offering behind-the-scenes interviews and celebrity arrivals.

New Categories Spotlight Visual Media and Cultural Roots

This year, the Latin Recording Academy has introduced two new categories to reflect the evolving landscape of Latin music and culture.

The first, Best Music for Visual Media, will recognize original compositions created for films, television, video games, and other visual platforms. Eligible works must either feature Latin rhythms or be composed by an artist of Ibero-American descent.

The second, Best Roots Song, honors songwriters behind new, unpublished recordings that preserve and reinterpret traditional music styles from Hispanic, Portuguese, or Indigenous origins. The award celebrates songs that represent the social, cultural, and linguistic diversity of Latin communities worldwide.

A Night of Global Latin Performances

The 2025 ceremony boasts a powerhouse performance lineup that captures the richness of Latin music’s many genres. Confirmed acts include Bad Bunny, CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso, Karol G, Marco Antonio Solís, Chuwi, Fuerza Regida and its lead singer Jesús Ortiz Paz, Pepe Aguilar, Aitana, Ivan Cornejo, DannyLux, Gloria Estefan, Kakalo, Carín León, Liniker, Morat, and Los Tigres del Norte.

One of the evening’s highlights will be a special tribute performance honoring the 2025 Latin Grammy Person of the Year, Spanish icon Raphael, whose six-decade career has left an indelible mark on the Latin music world.

Continuing a Legacy of Excellence

The Latin Grammy Person of the Year honor has previously gone to legends such as Carlos Vives (2024), Juanes, Laura Pausini, Marco Antonio Solís, and Rubén Blades, each celebrated for their artistic contributions and humanitarian work.

This year’s ceremony aims not only to celebrate the best of contemporary Latin music but also to highlight the enduring cultural impact of artists who continue to shape its global reach.

As the lights go up in Las Vegas, the 2025 Latin Grammys are set to deliver a mix of nostalgia, innovation, and international flair — a fitting tribute to the diversity and creativity that define Latin music today.

Source: AP News – The 2025 Latin Grammy Awards are almost here. Here’s what to expect and how to watch

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Escobedo’s death marks the end of a partnership that stretched from the streets of Las Vegas, where the two first met as kids, to two decades on national television. The cause and date of his death have not yet been publicly disclosed.

A Friendship That Began in Las Vegas

Kimmel and Escobedo’s friendship started in their Las Vegas neighborhood, where they grew up across the street from one another. In a 2022 interview for Texas Tech University’s Southwest Collection oral history archive, Escobedo described their early bond: “We just met one day on the street, and there were a few kids on the street, and him and I just became really close friends… we kind of had the same sense of humor.”

As children, the two were inspired by late-night comedy legends, particularly David Letterman, whose shows they watched religiously. The shared dream of entertainment and laughter would eventually lead them to work side by side in Hollywood.

From Touring Musician to Late-Night Mainstay

Before joining Kimmel on television, Escobedo carved out an accomplished music career. A skilled saxophonist, he performed with industry icons including Earth, Wind & Fire’s Phillip Bailey, Paula Abdul, Marc Anthony, Tom Scott, and Take Six.

When Kimmel launched Jimmy Kimmel Live! on ABC in 2003, he reached out to Escobedo to lead the house band. “Of course I wanted great musicians, but I wanted somebody I had chemistry with,” Kimmel told WABC in a 2015 interview. “And there’s nobody in my life I have better chemistry with than him.”

Under Escobedo’s leadership, the show’s band became a defining element of its nightly rhythm — providing not just music but also camaraderie and on-screen presence that reflected the genuine friendship between host and bandleader.

Father and Son on the Same Stage

A unique aspect of Escobedo’s musical legacy was his collaboration with his father, Cleto Escobedo II, who played tenor and alto saxophones in the same band. The father-son duo celebrated nearly two decades of performing together in 2022 — a rare achievement in television music history.

Recalling the show’s early days, Escobedo said Kimmel suggested including his father in the band lineup. “Jimmy asked me, ‘Who are we going to get in the band?’ I said, ‘My normal guys,’ and he knew them because he had been coming to see us before he was famous,” Escobedo shared in 2022. “Then he just said, ‘Hey, man, what about your dad? Wouldn’t that be kind of cool?’ I was like, ‘That would be way cool.’”

Balancing Music and Family Life

In interviews, Escobedo often expressed gratitude for the stability his television work provided compared to life on the road. “Touring and all that stuff is fun, but it’s more of a young man’s game,” he told Texas Tech University in 2022. “Touring is not really conducive for family life. Sometimes you leave your kids as babies, and when you come back, they’re talking — it’s like, ‘What happened?’”

He credited his role on Jimmy Kimmel Live! for allowing him to be closer to his family, including his wife, Lori, and their two children.

A Personal Loss for Late-Night Television

The news of Escobedo’s death came just days after Jimmy Kimmel Live! abruptly canceled its Thursday taping, which had been set to feature David Duchovny, Joe Keery, and Madison Beer. The sudden cancellation now appears to have been connected to the passing of Kimmel’s longtime bandleader and friend.

In his emotional tribute, Kimmel reflected on the rare opportunity of working daily with someone he had known for most of his life. “The fact that we got to work together every day is a dream neither of us could ever have imagined would come true,” Kimmel wrote. “Cherish your friends and please keep Cleto’s wife, children, and parents in your prayers.”

Remembering a Musician and Friend

Over the years, Kimmel often shared fond memories of his early adventures with Escobedo. During a 2016 on-air segment celebrating Escobedo’s 50th birthday, Kimmel recalled their playful mischief growing up — including BB gun pranks and a makeshift “sidecar bike” they used to ride around their neighborhood. “Cleto would drive me directly into garbage cans and bushes,” Kimmel joked on the show, a memory that drew laughter and affection from the audience.

While Escobedo’s musical skills earned him respect in the entertainment industry, those who knew him best often spoke of his warmth, humor, and unwavering loyalty. His sudden passing leaves a void not only in the world of late-night television but also among musicians and fans who admired his artistry and quiet grace.

Source: AP News – Cleto Escobedo III, Jimmy Kimmel’s bandleader and childhood friend, dies at 59

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Published: October 10, 2025, 22:10 EDT

Kiss Bassist Gene Simmons Stable After Fainting and Crashing SUV

Kiss frontman Gene Simmons is recovering after fainting while driving along the Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, California, resulting in a minor collision with a parked vehicle, authorities confirmed.

The 76-year-old musician, known as the co-founder and bassist of the legendary rock band Kiss, was taken to a local hospital for evaluation and later released. Simmons assured fans he was “completely fine” and thanked them for their support.

Minor Collision in Malibu

Authorities said Simmons’ SUV veered across several lanes before striking a parked car on the coastal highway. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department responded to the scene, confirming no serious injuries were reported.

Local media outlets cited first responders who said the incident appeared to have been caused by Simmons briefly losing consciousness while driving. Officials have not disclosed the cause of the fainting episode.

Statement From Gene Simmons

In a brief post on X (formerly Twitter), Simmons addressed the incident directly:
“Thanks, everybody, for the kind wishes. I’m completely fine. I had a slight fender bender. It happens.”

The veteran rocker’s message reassured fans worldwide, many of whom expressed relief and shared well wishes across social media platforms.

Recent Activities and Upcoming Event

Although Kiss officially retired from touring in 2023 after five decades of global performances, Simmons and his bandmates continue to make special appearances.

According to event organizers, the band is set to reunite for a special performance in Las Vegas this November. In August, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Kiss will be among the recipients of this year’s Kennedy Center Honors, recognizing their impact on American music and culture.

Rock Legend With a Lasting Legacy

Gene Simmons, born Chaim Witz in Israel, co-founded Kiss in 1973 with Paul Stanley, Peter Criss, and Ace Frehley. Known for his distinctive stage persona “The Demon,” Simmons became one of rock’s most recognizable figures through the band’s theatrical performances, elaborate makeup, and hit songs such as Rock and Roll All Nite and Detroit Rock City.

Over the years, Simmons has also built a successful career as an entrepreneur and television personality, maintaining a global fan base across generations.

Authorities Continue Routine Follow-Up

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department confirmed it is conducting a routine follow-up to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the crash. No criminal investigation is currently expected, and there were no reports of impairment.

Local officials said road conditions were clear at the time of the incident. Simmons’ vehicle was later towed from the scene.

Fans Express Support Worldwide

News of the crash spread quickly across social media, prompting thousands of fans to post messages of encouragement. Many praised Simmons for his resilience and long-standing influence on rock music.

Despite the brief scare, the musician’s upbeat response reassured the public that he remains in good health and spirits.

Sources: AP News – Kiss rocker Gene Simmons recovering after crashing SUV

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LAS VEGAS — What began as a typical afternoon at a popular gym on the west side of Las Vegas quickly turned into a scene of terror and tragedy Friday, as a gunman opened fire inside the Las Vegas Athletic Club (LVAC), killing one person and injuring three others before being shot and killed by police outside the facility.

The incident unfolded shortly before 4 p.m. at the busy fitness center located near Rainbow Boulevard and Alta Drive. According to Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Undersheriff Andrew Walsh, officers responded to reports of a shooting and arrived to find chaos unfolding inside the gym.

Gunfire Erupts Inside the Gym

Witnesses described a scene of panic as shots rang out near the workout equipment area. One man was fatally shot inside the building, Walsh confirmed, while gym-goers scrambled to escape or take cover.

Claudio Vigani, who was working out at the time, told KLAS-TV he heard the commotion and people yelling for others to run. “They said ‘Get out, get out, get out,’” Vigani recalled. “Then I saw the dead guy next to the machine.”

Walsh said officers encountered the armed suspect exiting the building. The man was shot by police after reportedly failing to comply with commands and posing an immediate threat. He was taken to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The identity of the suspect has not been publicly released as of Saturday morning.

Multiple Victims Rushed to Hospitals

Three other individuals were injured during the shooting. All were transported to nearby hospitals, and one remains in critical condition. Police did not specify whether all the injuries were caused by gunfire or if some occurred during the rush to evacuate the building.

Emergency responders worked swiftly to secure the area, treat the wounded, and evacuate the gym. Authorities have since confirmed there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Close Call for Some Gym Members

As more details emerge, accounts from near-miss survivors have underscored just how close this could have been to an even greater tragedy.

Gary Steward and a companion were just moments away from entering the gym when the shooting began. By chance, they stopped at a nearby nutrition store on the way in. That brief delay may have saved their lives.

“If we hadn’t stopped there, we would have walked in through the front desk, where the shooter came in,” Steward told the Las Vegas Review-Journal. As they approached the entrance, they saw shattered glass and fled back to the parking lot.

“It’s just a weird feeling right now,” he said. “It’s strange. Who shoots up a gym?”

Motive Remains Unclear

As investigators continue combing through evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing surveillance footage, the motive behind the attack remains unknown.

Undersheriff Walsh noted that there’s no indication yet whether the shooting was targeted or random. Authorities are also working to determine if the suspect had any connection to the gym, its staff, or its members.

Community Shaken by Sudden Violence

The Las Vegas Athletic Club is a popular fitness chain with multiple locations throughout the city. For many local residents, it’s a daily stop — a place to improve health and unwind. The news of a deadly shooting at such a familiar location has deeply unsettled the community.

Social media was quickly flooded with posts from concerned residents and gym members checking on loved ones or sharing their shock. As of Friday evening, calls to the gym and its corporate office went unanswered.

A Broader Conversation on Public Safety

This incident adds to a growing list of public shootings in places once considered safe — schools, malls, churches, and now fitness centers. As Las Vegas police continue their investigation, the shooting will likely reignite conversations about security in public spaces and mental health resources.

For now, the focus remains on the victims and their families. Local officials have not yet released the identities of those killed or injured, pending notification of next of kin.

The Las Vegas Metro Police Department urges anyone with information or footage related to the incident to come forward as detectives continue working to piece together the events leading up to Friday’s shooting.

Source: AP News – 2 dead and at least 3 injured in Las Vegas gym shooting, police say

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