Adviser steps down...Suspected gunman dead...Pope marks WWII anniversary

Washington (AP) Citing what he calls a "vicious smear campaign" against him, President Barack Obama's environmental adviser Van Jones has resigned. Jones became embroiled in a controversy after his name appeared on a petition which suggested a government role in 9/11, and after he was quoted as making a derogatory comment in the past about Republicans.

HOLDEN, La. (AP) Police in Louisiana say a triple homicide and suicide appears to stem from an ongoing dispute between the gunman and his wife. Authorities say Dennis Carter Sr. killed his estranged wife, son and 2-year-old grandson and critically wounded his pregnant daughter-in-law. He then killed himself as police tried to pull him over.

LOS ANGELES (AP) The fight continues against a massive Southern California fire that's nearly half contained. The investigation of the fire, which authorities say was arson, also continues. Fire agencies so far have spent $43.5 million fighting the blaze.

LOS ANGELES (AP) The Los Angeles Fire Department is looking to stop a huge leak in Studio City, where a water main has burst. A fire official says water is several feet deep in some places and has damaged homes and businesses. A shelter has been set up at an elementary school for displaced residents.

VITERBO, Italy Pope Benedict XVI has marked the 70th anniversary of the start of World War II by saying religion should promote peace and fight racism and totalitarianism. The German-born Benedict says the memory of one of the worst conflicts in history should serve as a warning to never repeat such a "barbarity" as the Holocaust.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 09-06-09 0645CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list