New York City News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now!

Austin Lynch, an 18-year-old Long Island teen, stands accused of murdering his ex-girlfriend, Emily Finn, just days before Thanksgiving. The couple, who dated since they were 14, had recently broken up, with Emily starting college and Austin remaining on Long Island. After the breakup, Austin allegedly harassed Emily, even after she blocked his number, and threatened suicide. On November 26th, Emily returned Austins belongings, and he allegedly shot her in the back of the head. Austin then turned the gun on himself, but was found by his parents and taken to the hospital. He has pleaded not guilty and faces 25 years to life in prison if convicted.

Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdanis transition fundraising efforts are thriving, with over three million dollars raised from nearly thirty thousand donors, averaging eighty-eight dollars each. This grassroots funding, unlike previous mayoral transitions, is crucial for setting up his new administration before he takes office. Mamdani aims to raise four million dollars to cover staffing costs, with over seventy-one thousand people applying for jobs. His transition also involves over four hundred New Yorkers serving on seventeen committees, and he recently met with current Mayor Eric Adams to discuss the transfer of power.

Pretrial hearing in Luigi Mangiones murder case postponed due to defendants illness. Mangione, accused of killing UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, seeks to exclude evidence and suppress statements. Hearing resumes Monday.

Governor Kathy Hochuls decision not to implement a twenty-five percent surcharge on daily tolls during Gridlock Alert days has limited the MTAs ability to reduce traffic in Manhattan. This move, made after the 2024 election, has been criticized by pro-transit groups and transit planner Sam Schwartz, who advocates for a more advanced system based on usage and duration. The MTA earns nearly two million dollars daily from congestion tolls, intended for transit infrastructure upgrades.

Teenager Arrested for Violent Attack on Queens Couple: Nineteen-year-old Justin Aguilera faces multiple charges, including gang assault and riot, for his alleged involvement in the beating of Blake and Melissa Ferrer. Police are searching for three more suspects and seized the primary vehicle used in the drag racing that night.

Experience the magic of New York City this weekend with a variety of holiday events across the five boroughs. The HopeNYC Christmas parade in Queens, Wishing Wall in Times Square, and Santaland at Macys are must-visits. For a unique museum experience, check out the New York Sign Museum in Brooklyn. Animal lovers can enjoy the Bronx Zoos Holiday Lights display and the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. Lastly, dont miss the New York Botanical Gardens Holiday Train Show, now in its thirty-fourth year.

A Ridgewood couples dog, Timber, suffered a severe injury at a Bushwick doggie daycare, leading to a tail amputation. The owners, Dayi Novas and her partner, were upset when the facility, Pawsies, refused to waive the remaining payment for Timbers stay. Novas shared her experience on social media, sparking negative feedback about the business. The owner, Ivan Gamba, issued a written apology but refused to comp the stay, offering a potential $500 compensation instead.

Good morning, New York! Despite the festive season, significant news unfolds. Federal charges against Attorney General Letitia James are dropped, and Manhattans luxury real estate market remains robust. Wealthy New Yorkers stay put due to tax auditors vigilance. Mayor-elect Mamdani announces a new approach to homelessness, and Alec Baldwins Amagansett house remains on the market.