Month: May 2024

May 16

Florida Father Charged After Toddler Left in Hot Car During Shopping Trip

Harrowing Ordeal in West Palm Beach Parking Lot

In a distressing incident in West Palm Beach, a father faces serious charges after allegedly leaving his 3-year-old daughter in a dangerously hot SUV. The father, identified as 42-year-old Raul Rielo-Fernandez, reportedly parked his 2021 Chevrolet SUV at a Sam’s Club on 45th Street to shop for Mother’s Day gifts, leaving the young child unattended in the back seat. The vehicle was turned off with the windows sealed, escalating the internal temperature as the child remained inside.

Rescue by Alert Shopper and Police Response

The situation came to light when another shopper noticed the distressed child crying and sweating profusely inside the vehicle. Acting quickly, the concerned individual managed to open the vehicle and aid the overheated child. West Palm Beach Police, alerted by an off-duty officer present at the scene, responded promptly to provide necessary assistance. The father returned to the car visibly shocked by the emergency response surrounding his SUV.

Legal Consequences and Ongoing Investigation

Rielo-Fernandez, who has pleaded not guilty to charges of child neglect and leaving a child unattended in a vehicle, told police he had forgotten the child was in the car due to his preoccupation with holiday shopping. The child was immediately rushed to St. Mary’s Medical Center; her condition was not disclosed. The local temperatures recorded around the time of the incident topped 100 degrees, underscoring the lethal conditions the toddler endured. Following the incident, Rielo-Fernandez was released on his own recognizance with a court mandate to avoid any violent contact with the child.

May 16

Father Arrested for Neglect After Toddler Left in Hot Car in West Palm Beach

Disturbing Discovery at a Local Shopping Center

In a concerning incident in West Palm Beach, a father was apprehended after allegedly leaving his young daughter unattended in a scorching SUV. Raul Rielo-Fernandez, 42, reportedly parked his vehicle at Sam’s Club to shop for Mother’s Day gifts, leaving his 3-year-old in a stifling environment. The child was discovered by a passerby, distressed and alone in the backseat, leading to immediate police intervention.

Raul Rielo-Fernandez, 42, is handcuffed and placed in a West Palm Beach police vehicle on May 11, 2024.jpg

West Palm Beach Police Department
Raul Rielo-Fernandez, 42, is handcuffed and placed in a West Palm Beach police vehicle on May 11, 2024.

Immediate Rescue and Legal Consequences

The child, found in a state of distress—crying and visibly overheated—was quickly assisted by shoppers and an off-duty police officer at the scene. Rielo-Fernandez, confronted by police upon exiting the store, claimed to have forgotten his daughter due to the distractions of his shopping tasks. He faces charges of child neglect and leaving a child unattended in a vehicle, to which he has pleaded not guilty.

Robert Molleda, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Miami, speaks to WPTV on May 16, 2024.jpg
Robert Molleda, a meteorologist for the National Weather Service in Miami, speaks to WPTV on May 16, 2024.

A Stark Reminder from Health Officials

This alarming event serves as a grave reminder from health experts about the rapid and dangerous temperature rise inside parked vehicles. Robert Molleda, a meteorologist, emphasized the lethal potential of such situations, noting that car interiors can reach critical temperatures within minutes. He urged the public to regularly check their vehicles to ensure no child or pet is inadvertently left behind, especially during peak heat periods.

May 16

A Surprising History: Electric Vehicles Are Not as Modern as You Think

The Dawn of Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles (EVs), often perceived as a product of modern technological advancements, have actually been part of the automotive landscape far longer than many realize. The concept dates back to the early 19th century, with the first primitive electric carriage introduced by Robert Anderson in 1832. However, it wasn’t until the latter part of that century that electric vehicles became more practical and started to gain traction, thanks to innovators like William Morrison of Iowa.

The Rise and Decline of Early EVs

By 1889, Morrison had developed what could be considered the first successful electric vehicle, resembling an electric wagon capable of carrying up to nine passengers. This period marked a growing popularity for EVs, appreciated for their quiet operation, ease of driving, and lack of pollutant emissions—qualities that made them favorable over gas and steam-powered vehicles. Despite their initial success and accounting for a third of all vehicles by 1912, the advent of the affordable gas-powered Model T and the proliferation of gas stations led to a decline in electric vehicle popularity.

Modern Challenges Echo Historical Issues

Fast forward to modern times, the resurgence of interest in electric vehicles has paralleled historical patterns. Issues like limited range and lengthy charging times that plagued early EVs continue to be the main hurdles for modern manufacturers. Despite technological advancements, these persistent challenges mirror those of the past, highlighting a continuous struggle within the auto industry. The rekindling of interest in EVs during the oil crises of the 1970s and later through innovations by companies like Tesla has shown cyclical peaks and troughs in EV adoption, underscoring the ongoing journey toward sustainable automotive solutions.

May 16

Critics Slam Chinese Electric Car Tariffs as ‘Bad Policy’ and ‘Not Enough’

It’s no surprise that Chinese electric vehicles undercut the price points of North American alternatives. To stave off the prospect of cheap EVs upsetting the car market here in the United States, the Biden Administration introduced substantial tariffs. However, critics say the tariffs could be anywhere from “poor leadership” to simply “not enough” to prevent cheap Chinese electric cars from challenging American alternatives.

Even with record-breaking restrictions, critics think the latest Chinese electric car tariffs are ineffective

Earlier this week, U.S. President Joe Biden and his administration levied 100% tariffs on Chinese electric cars among other imported goods. While the president asserts that the move is “intended to protect US jobs” from “unfair policies.” However, not everyone believes the move will be as beneficial as intended.

According to The Economist, the global trade system has benefited from a commendable decrease in worldwide tariffs. As such, the global GDP has increased threefold and then some. Tragically, critics state that President Biden’s latest tariffs have the potential to damage that growth.

Still, tariffs aren’t the only recent development with protecting North American-built EVs in mind. The U.S. Department of Energy restricts clean vehicle tax credit eligibility to vehicles with final manufacturing in North America. Not only does that restrict Chinese electric cars, but it also leaves European EVs out of the mix.

A yellow BYD Seagull shows off its small hatchback construction.
BYD Seagull | BYD

Shocking as it may seem, a 100% tariff may not be enough to block the importation of low-cost Chinese electric car models like the BYD Seagull, per CNBC. After all, the Seagull sells for the U.S. dollar equivalent of around $12,000 in the Chinese domestic market. Conversely, the most affordable EVs in the United States are around the $30,000 mark. For instance, the 2023 Chevrolet Bolt EV, one of the most affordable new EV options for American buyers, starts at $27,495.

Moreover, the tariffs don’t name Chinese imports in neighboring countries like Mexico. Consequently, we may see cheap EVs from Southeast Asia make their way into the United States via unconventional means.

May 16

Revealed: The Most Stolen Cars in the U.S. Include Popular Kia, Hyundai, and Honda Models

The Epidemic of Auto Theft

In the latest report by the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) for 2023, it’s revealed that vehicles from Kia, Hyundai, and Honda dominate the list of the top ten most stolen vehicles in the U.S. Among these, the Hyundai Elantra tops the list with a staggering 48,445 thefts reported last year, followed by the Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima with 42,813 and 30,204 thefts respectively. Ford and Chevrolet also see their models among the most targeted, indicating a widespread issue across various popular brands.

Recovery Rates and Preventative Measures

While vehicle theft remains a significant concern, the NICB notes a recovery rate of over 85% for stolen passenger vehicles, with one-third being recovered within a day of the theft report. NICB President David J. Glawe emphasizes the collaboration with law enforcement and industry partners to implement advanced technologies and strategies to curb these crimes. Owners are urged to remain proactive and vigilant, adopting recommended safety practices to safeguard their vehicles.

Legal and Safety Enhancements

The theft vulnerability of certain Kia and Hyundai models has drawn legal actions, with seventeen state attorneys general suing over the absence of standard immobilizers—devices that prevent the engine from starting without the correct key. In response to a surge in thefts linked to a social media trend and subsequent legal pressure, Hyundai and Kia agreed to a $200 million class-action settlement to address the security flaws. The companies have since updated their software to better protect against theft, aiming to restore confidence among consumers and decrease the likelihood of future incidents.

May 16

Serious Crash Involving Semi and SUV Near Felton Results in Numerous Injuries

Harrowing Collision on Highway 9

Early Thursday morning, a grave accident occurred south of Felton on State Highway 9, involving a semi-truck and an SUV, as confirmed by the Minnesota State Patrol. The collision led to multiple injuries, prompting an immediate response from emergency services. Sgt. Jesse Grabow reported that several individuals from both vehicles were urgently transported to hospitals via air and ground ambulances.

Details of the Incident and Immediate Response

According to preliminary investigations, the SUV, which contained six passengers, was heading south on Highway 9 when it collided with the semi traveling west on 90th Ave North. The impact was significant, leading to a range of injuries among the occupants, from non-life-threatening to serious conditions. Emergency teams quickly secured the scene and facilitated the swift transportation of the injured to receive medical care.

Ongoing Investigation and Traffic Impact

The Minnesota State Patrol is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this critical incident. The crash caused considerable disruption along Highway 9, with traffic delays as investigative and cleanup operations were underway. Authorities are examining all factors that could have contributed to the crash, including vehicular movement and road conditions at the time of the accident, to understand better and prevent such incidents in the future.

May 16

SUV Submerges in Miami Lakes Canal, One Hospitalized

Incident Summary

Authorities are currently probing an incident where an SUV ended up in a canal in Miami Lakes on Thursday morning. The event occurred near Northwest 67th Avenue, just south of Loch Ness Drive. Miami-Dade Fire Rescue (MDFR) units were dispatched shortly after 10:35 a.m., based on the dispatch information.

Emergency Response and Current Status

By 11 a.m., both Miami-Dade police and fire rescue teams were on-site, as observed in aerial footage from Sky 10. An MDFR spokesperson stated that one person was taken to a local hospital, though the condition was not provided by noon. The quick action from emergency responders highlights the seriousness of the incident.

Ongoing Investigation and Safety Precautions

Investigators are looking into what led to the SUV’s plunge into the canal. This situation underscores the need for heightened road safety and vigilance, particularly near water bodies. The public is encouraged to stay alert and report any unusual activities to help prevent similar accidents in the future.

May 16

SUV Driver Rescued from Creek Bed Near Runnells After Rear-End Collision

Emergency Response to Creek Bed Incident

Multiple fire departments and law enforcement agencies collaborated on Wednesday evening to rescue a driver from an SUV that landed in a creek bed near Runnells. According to Captain Ryan Evans of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred just before 7:00 p.m. Initially reported as a water rescue, the correct location was identified as the 9800 block of SE 56th Street, northwest of Runnells.

Details of the Collision and Rescue Effort

Upon arrival, the Pleasant Hill Fire Department found the SUV in a dry creek bed and immediately began treating the driver. Within 10 minutes, first responders had secured and safely transported the driver out of the creek bed. Captain Evans stated that the SUV had been rear-ended, causing it to veer off the road and down the embankment.

Injuries and Collaborative Efforts

Both drivers involved in the collision were taken to metro hospitals by ambulance with non-life-threatening injuries. Updates on their conditions were not available at the time of reporting. The incident saw the cooperation of the Runnells Fire Department, Altoona Fire Department, Pleasant Hill Police and Fire Departments, and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, highlighting the community’s robust emergency response capabilities.

May 16

Electric Scooter Rider Fatally Struck by SUV on Route 1 Identified

Incident Details

Authorities have identified the 22-year-old man who tragically lost his life after being hit by an SUV while riding an electric scooter on Route 1 in Edison early Wednesday morning. Raul Montoya-Chavez was attempting to cross the intersection at Plainfield Avenue around 1:45 a.m. when he was struck in the southbound center lane, according to Edison police.

Consequences and Official Statements

Montoya-Chavez, a resident of Edison, succumbed to his injuries at a nearby hospital. The driver of the SUV, a 61-year-old man from Rahway, had the right of way with a green light and is not expected to face charges, authorities confirmed. This incident underscores the critical need for heightened awareness and caution among both drivers and those using alternative modes of transportation, especially during late hours.

May 16

M&M Maintains Strong Demand with 48,000 Monthly SUV Bookings; Order Book Hits 2.2 Lakh Units

Consistent High Demand for Mahindra SUVs

Despite the easing of the chip shortage, Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) continues to experience robust demand for its popular Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs). A senior company official revealed that the automaker has been consistently receiving around 48,000 bookings each month over the past few months.

Impressive Order Backlog and Low Cancellation Rates

Rajesh Jejurikar, ED and CEO of the Auto and Farm business at Mahindra & Mahindra, disclosed during the Q4 FY-24 earnings call that as of May 1st, the company has an order backlog of 2.20 lakh units, with a cancellation rate holding steady at a low 10 percent. This impressive backlog includes significant numbers for models like the XUV 3X0, Thar, XUV700, Bolero, and Scorpio-N.

Scaling Up Production Capacity

Jejurikar also highlighted that Mahindra has significantly increased its SUV production capacity, growing from 179,400 units per year to 459,000 units annually over the last five years. The company’s market share in SUV revenue has risen from 17.6 percent in FY20 to 20.4 percent in FY24. To meet the growing demand, Mahindra is ramping up its production capacity further, aiming to increase from 6 lakh units annually (49,000 units per month) to 8.64 lakh units per year (72,000 units per month) by the end of FY26.