Critics Of Carbon Regulations Using Mine Spill To Skewer EPA - The Associated Press
Authorities say rivers tainted by last week's massive spill from an abandoned Colorado gold mine are starting to recover, but for the Environmental Protection Agency the political fallout from the disaster could linger.
The agency's critics are seeking to use its much-maligned handling of the spill to undercut the Obama administration's rollout of major regulations aimed at cutting greenhouse gas emissions at the nation's power plants.
EPA and contract workers accidentally unleashed 3 million gallons of contaminated wastewater as they inspected the idled Gold King mine. The agency was already a frequent target for Republicans and pro-industry groups. Members of congressional oversight committees say they are planning hearings.
The spill came just two days after Obama unveiled his Clean Power Plan in an event at the White House.
Health Dept. Investigating Case Of Plague In A Santa Fe Dog - The Associated Press
The New Mexico Department of Health is investigating a confirmed case of plague in a dog in Santa Fe.
The dog most likely was exposed to plague by infected rodents and their fleas while walking with its owner along the Santa Fe River.
Plague is a bacterial disease of rodents and is generally transmitted to humans through the bites of infected fleas.
But it also can be transmitted by direct contact with infected animals including rodents, wildlife and pets.
Plague cases in animals have occurred every month of the year in New Mexico, but most cases usually occur in the summer months.
There has been one human case of plague in New Mexico so far the year — a fatal case in a woman from Santa Fe County.
4 Las Cruces Teens Indicted In Fatal Shooting Last Month - The Associated Press
Four Las Cruces teenagers have been indicted in a fatal shooting during a home invasion last month.
Prosecutors say a Dona Ana County grand jury indicted three 18-year-old boys and a 17-year-old boy in the case.
All four are facing multiple charges including first-degree felony murder in the death of 17-year-old Jaycob Alba.
Authorities say Alba and the suspects went to a mobile home park on July 31. The suspects allegedly shot into a vehicle and a home.
The home's occupant was asleep and suffered a gunshot wound to the foot.
Authorities say Alba was outside when he was shot in the head.
They say the four other teens fled the area, but were later arrested by county sheriff's deputies.
Prosecutors say they intend to try the teenagers as adults.