Local News
Family Devastated After Drowning of 6-Year-Old Girl at Element St. Louis Midtown Hotel
St. Louis, MO — A family is mourning the loss of 6-year-old Lailah Austin, who tragically drowned while attending a party at the Element St. Louis Midtown Hotel on Saturday, January 18, 2025.
According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, officers responded to the hotel, located in the 3700 block of Forest Park Avenue, around 8:30 p.m. after receiving a report from hotel staff who discovered the child unresponsive in the indoor pool.
Emergency responders rushed Lailah to a nearby hospital, where she was listed in critical, unstable condition.
Despite medical efforts, Lailah succumbed to her injuries and passed away on Monday, January 20.
Her family is heartbroken, especially as they were preparing to celebrate her upcoming 7th birthday this Sunday.
The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department has classified the incident as an “accidental injury” and has assigned its Child Abuse Unit to lead the investigation. Authorities have not released additional details at this time.
The tragic incident remains under investigation, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward.
Lailah’s family, friends, and the community are rallying together to remember the young girl and support her loved ones during this difficult time.
El Paso, TX – The El Paso port of entry has been temporarily closed following the inauguration of President Donald Trump on Monday, January 20, 2025, as part of an anticipated series of executive actions aimed at curbing illegal immigration.
Law enforcement officers, including border protection agents and local police, were seen securing the entrance to the port of entry as Trump took the oath of office.
Officers, equipped with riot shields, stood in formation while an announcement was made over loudspeakers warning those attempting to cross that any unauthorized entry would result in arrest, prosecution, and potential use of force.
The warning was delivered in both English and Spanish.
In addition to the port closure, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) confirmed that the CBP One application—a digital platform used for scheduling asylum claim appointments—was deactivated shortly after Trump’s inauguration.
All previously scheduled asylum appointments were canceled as of Monday afternoon.
President Trump, who is expected to sign over 200 executive orders on his first day in office, emphasized immigration enforcement as a top priority. During his inaugural address, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to stringent immigration policies, stating:
“Today, I will sign a series of historic executive orders. With these actions, we will begin the complete restoration of America and the revolution of common sense.”
He further pledged an immediate halt to illegal crossings and announced plans to reinstate the “Remain in Mexico” policy, which requires asylum seekers to await the outcome of their immigration proceedings outside the United States.
Trump’s executive actions are also expected to address other policy areas, including the rollback of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs, expanding domestic energy production, and reducing government spending.
The situation at the El Paso port of entry remains tense as officials continue to enforce the new policies. Further updates are expected as federal agencies release additional guidance on immigration enforcement measures.
Individuals with inquiries regarding the port closure or immigration-related matters are encouraged to contact U.S. Customs and Border Protection.