Taiwan Ex-leader Jailed for Life

Taiwan's former President Chen Shui-bian has been sentenced to life in prison after being found guilty of corruption by a court in Taipei.

Mr Chen was charged with embezzlement, taking bribes and money laundering, involving a total of $15m (£9m) while in office from 2000-2008.

Mr Chen had denied the charges, saying they were politically motivated.

His wife, Wu Shu-chen, already jailed for perjury in the case, was also sentenced to life for corruption.

(READ MORE at the BBC)

Knife-Wielding Man Shot Inside 109th Precinct

Crazy and tragic events today near and in the 109th Precinct on Union St. in Flushing today.

"I'm very concerned because it's like a war zone," said Flushing resident Ron Kim. (as quoted on NY1).

Early-Morning Fire Damages Flushing Buildings

"Eyewitness News is told the wind-whipped blaze broke out inside the buildings on Roosevelt Avenue, near Main Street, just after 2:30 a.m.

Heavy flames were seen shooting through the windows and roof of the structures, destroying six businesses.

Firefighters tried to battle the blaze from inside but were forced back. Heavy winds are said to have helped spread the fire."

Read more here.

Water that was used to put out the fire leaked onto the tracks of the 7 train, interrupting service. It has since resumed, although buses were still being rerouted as late as 7:30 this morning. Check out the MTA's Service Alerts for updates.

Update on Flushing Apartment Explosion

Frustrated tenants are still looking for answers after their Flushing apartment building exploded on July 25...

Pain lingers from Queens blast, victim dies and tenants not allowed back

This was a terrible disaster. I remember driving by that block on the day it happened. Firetrucks were all over the place. queenscrap.blogspot.com posted about this Daily News article.