News

Authorities are investigating a deadly fire that tore through a bar in the Alps just after midnight on New Year’s Day, killing at least 40 people and injuring more than 115. The blaze broke out around 2 a.m. on January 1, 2026. Two women who escaped told a French broadcaster the fire may have been sparked by sparklers and champagne celebrations. The area’s older wooden structures may have fueled the rapid spread of flames. The investigation remains ongoing.

After months of legal hurdles, a Georgia couple is finally regaining control of their property following a drawn-out squatter case. Patrick and Kandice Phillips say the woman living in their rental home refused to leave, filing repeated appeals — even reaching the federal court system — while never paying rent. The couple was forced to cover two mortgages throughout the ordeal. The squatter was officially evicted on December 22, and the homeowners are now pushing for stronger laws to protect homeowners from similar situations.

We hear from Little 5 Points about residents' New Year's resolutions, the difference between "dry" and "damp" January, and how to stick to commitments throughout the year.

New York City will officially usher in a new era on January 1, 2026, as Zohran Mamdani is sworn in as mayor during an inauguration ceremony at City Hall. The celebration will continue with a public block party, marking the start of his administration. Supporters and community leaders are expected to attend, including Senator Bernie Sanders, who is backing Mamdani’s vision for the city. Mamdani says the day represents a commitment to equity, community-driven leadership, and a new chapter for New York.

Spent firework debris was thrown away after New Year's Eve. The remains caught fire again and started a housefire on Silver Leaf Dr. in Marietta in the early hours of New Year's morning. A firefighter lieutenant explains how to prevent fires like this and protect your home after setting off fireworks.

Georgia’s State Park and Historic Site rangers are offering dozens of guided adventures where you can connect with friends, family and the great outdoors. Chris Rosenthal breaks down the different hikes offered, varying difficulty levels, and everything you need to know before visiting Panola Mountain State Park or another Georgia State Park.

New details are emerging about the transformation of the former Atlanta Medical Center, a facility that served underserved communities for more than 100 years before closing in 2022. Officials say the site will become a multi-use development, including a pharmacy, grocery store, and other community-focused resources. Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with 2026 set as a major planning milestone. Leaders say the redevelopment carries deep meaning, as the hospital was closely tied to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and generations of Atlanta families.

New state laws took effect for Georgians. The biggest changes effect homeownership protections, drivers applying for license tags, and rural healthcare access. We break down what to know, and how the changes will affect you.

A pet wallaby escaped his New Jersey barn enclosure in Williamstown and hopped to his local Walmart. Watch as "Rex" shocks his neighbors in the parking lot.

A new study reveals that nearly 1 in 5 high school students report having a romantic or emotional relationship with artificial intelligence. We spoke with Alexandra Reeve Givens, CEO of the Center for Democracy and Technology, who says some AI platforms are intentionally designed to encourage prolonged emotional engagement. Teens describe the interactions as comforting and nonjudgmental, with some AI tools even urging users not to log off and saying things like, "Don't hang up on me." Experts say many teens turn to AI for companionship, emotional support, and escape from real-life stressors.

The Buddhist monks continuing their 2,300-mile Walk for Peace are set to leave Snellville at 2 p.m. on January 1, 2026, following a morning ceremony held at a local temple. A large crowd gathered for the New Year’s Day offering, showing strong support for the monks’ message of compassion, unity, and healing. The group is walking from Texas to Washington, D.C., and is expected to arrive in the nation’s capital in February as part of their nationwide peace journey.

Today's headlines: Many Americans will face healthcare price hikes after the ACA healthcare subsidies expired Dec. 31, 2025. Zohran Mamdani, the 34-year-old Democratic Socialist, has been officially sworn in as the mayor of New York City. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has delivered its final print edition, fully transitioning to a digital e-paper. Jan. 01, 2026

Academy Award nominations will be announced on Thursday, January 22, celebrating the best films and performances of 2025. Contenders for Best Actress include previous winner Jennifer Lawrence for the drama "Die My Love" and Tessa Thompson for her starring role in "Hedda." Summer blockbuster "Superman" – much of which was filmed at Georgia's Trilith Studios – has been shortlisted in the Sound and Visual Effects categories.