Timeline: The Disappearance of Mengqi Ji
When a young mother disappears in Columbia, Missouri, investigators use DNA from a tree to help solve the mystery of what happened to her.
Missing Person
California man charged in missing wife's murder left a review for spellcaster
Investigators say her Larry Millete contacted spellcasters to try to put a hex on his wife Maya so she wouldn't leave him.
Police say husband asked spellcasters to hex his now missing wife
Shortly before Maya "May" Millete vanished, authorities say her husband Larry messaged a spellcaster, "Please punish May and incapacitate her enough so she can't leave the house."
Timeline: The disappearance of Maya Millete
Maya Millete, 39, went missing in January 2021. What was happening between her and her husband before she disappeared and what does spellcasting have to do with it?
Where's Maya Millete? Family, friends continue search for missing California mom
A California mother disappears without a trace – did her husband try to have a hex put on her so she wouldn't leave him?
Child's body confirmed by family as Mattie Sheils
Search operations will continue for Mattie's 9-month-old brother, Conrad.
Body believed to be of missing 2-year-old girl found in Philadelphia river
The body is believed to be of 2-year-old Mattie Sheils, who was swept away along with her 9-month-old brother during flash flooding last weekend. Her brother remains missing.
Anonymous tip leads searchers to 27 hacked-up bodies near U.S. border
Some of the corpses were buried so recently that bits of skin with tattoos remained, searchers said.
Police say they can't verify Carlee Russell's abduction claim
Russell called police after saying she saw a toddler on the highway, and then vanished. But investigators have not found any evidence of that child.
Missing Alabama woman returns home on foot
Carlee Russell returned home late Saturday night after she was reported missing Thursday. Police say she stopped to check on a young child she had seen walking on the interstate. Roxana Saberi reports.
Man recovering after 2 months lost at sea with dog on damaged boat
Tim Shaddock told Australian TV he just needed "rest and good food, because I have been alone at sea a long time," after he was spotted by a helicopter.
Alabama nursing student who vanished returns home
Carlee Russell, the 25-year-old Alabama nursing student who vanished Thursday night, has returned home. Russell disappeared after reporting she saw a child walking alone on the side of a highway. Astrid Martinez has the latest.
Alabama nursing student who disappeared after 911 call is found alive
Carlethia "Carlee" Nichole Russell went missing after she called 911 about a male toddler walking on the freeway. She returned home two days later.
Desperate search for nursing student who called 911 from side of freeway
Officers found Carlee Russell's car and cell phone on the side of the interstate, police said.
The Disappearance of Kristin Smart
A college student attends a party and is never seen again. A fellow student is long suspected of her murder. 26 years later – a jury speaks. "48 Hours" contributor Jonathan Vigliotti reports.
A timeline of the Kristin Smart case—and Paul Flores' conviction for her 1996 murder
Kristin Smart vanished in 1996. Now, longtime suspect Paul Flores has been convicted of her murder. His father Ruben was found not guilty of being an accessory after the fact.
Police: Case of man reported missing was hoax
Earlier this week, a Houston man who was reported missing by his mother eight years ago was found outside a local church. Police said Thursday he wasn't actually missing. Janet Shamlian has the story.
Teen who reportedly vanished 8 years ago while walking dogs is found alive
The Texas Center for the Missing, a nonprofit organization, said Rudy Farias was "located safe" and recovering at a hospital.
Man was not missing for 8 years as mother claimed, Houston police say
Rudolph "Rudy" Farias' mother reported her son missing on March 7, 2015. He returned home the following day but his mother remained adamant he was missing, police say.
Woman stuck in mud for days found alive
She was reported missing June 26 and was found in a Boston-area state park.
Madeleine McCann suspect said "she didn't even scream," witness claims
The man who led authorities probing the 2007 abduction of British toddler Madeleine McCann to a German national has spoken for the first time.
Skull found by California hunter in 1991 ID'd as missing 4-year-old
A quail hunter found the skull on the outskirts of Mentone, a small community about 65 miles east of Los Angeles.
Missing woman’s dog helps lead investigators to suspect with a criminal past
Lori Slesinski went missing in June 2006. Friends, family and investigators say details about her dog Peanut led them to a suspect with a criminal past.
Human remains found on California mountain where Julian Sands went missing
The British actor went missing in January while hiking on Mt. Baldy, a popular hiking area northeast of Los Angeles.
Search for Julian Sands resumes 5 months after he was reported missing
The San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department on Monday announced they'd picked up rescue efforts for Julian Sands in the vicinity of Mount Baldy in California, 5 months after Sands was reported missing during a hike.
Everything we know about Minnesota's massive fraud schemes
A viral social media video has put Minnesota's long-running fraud scandal at the center of the national conversation. Here's what to know.
New Year's celebrations welcome 2026 around the world. See the photos.
New Zealand and Australia were among the first to welcome 2026, but in Sydney and some other cities, the festivities are tinged by grief.
Dozens feared dead as fire hits New Year's revelers in Swiss Alps bar
Police in Switzerland say a fire at a bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort area is believed to have left "several tens of people" dead and dozens more injured.
Zohran Mamdani sworn in to become New York City's 112th mayor
In a private ceremony at the abandoned Old City Hall subway station, Mamdani was sworn in by New York Attorney General Letitia James as the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve.
Videos released in Epstein files raise fresh questions about jail footage
A recently released cache of security videos is raising new questions about the prison cameras at the facility where Jeffrey Epstein died in his cell in 2019.
Alleged drug smugglers jumped overboard in recent boat strikes, U.S. military says
Three people were killed Tuesday when the first boat was hit, while individuals in two other boats jumped overboard, according to U.S. Southern Command.
Judge voids decision to end legal status of 60,000 immigrants
A U.S. District Court judge issued a summary judgment on Wednesday, finding that the effort to revoke the legal status of tens of thousands of Hondurans, Nepalis and Nicaraguans was unlawful
Transcript, video of Jack Smith's testimony on Trump cases released
Former special counsel Jack Smith testified for more than eight hours about the investigations and prosecutions of President Trump.
Can you guess 6-7 words on the 50th annual "Banished Words List"?
Respondents to a Michigan college's survey of overused and misused words and phrases say "6-7" is "cooked" and should come to a massive full-stop.
U.S.
More U.S.
Can you guess 6-7 words on the 50th annual "Banished Words List"?
Respondents to a Michigan college's survey of overused and misused words and phrases say "6-7" is "cooked" and should come to a massive full-stop.
Federal appeals court blocks Hawaii's tourist tax on cruise ships
The levy, which would impose a new 11% tax on the gross fares paid by a cruise ship's passenger, was set to go into effect at the start of 2026.
Notable works entering the public domain in 2026
Here are the significant books, films and characters joining the list of works in the public domain on Jan. 1, 2026.
Judge voids decision to end legal status of 60,000 immigrants
A U.S. District Court judge issued a summary judgment on Wednesday, finding that the effort to revoke the legal status of tens of thousands of Hondurans, Nepalis and Nicaraguans was unlawful
Some states set to impose SNAP bans on soda, candy and other foods
Starting January 1, food-stamp recipients in five U.S. states will face restrictions on using the benefits to buy some sugary foods.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Federal appeals court blocks Hawaii's tourist tax on cruise ships
The levy, which would impose a new 11% tax on the gross fares paid by a cruise ship's passenger, was set to go into effect at the start of 2026.
Some states set to impose SNAP bans on soda, candy and other foods
Starting January 1, food-stamp recipients in five U.S. states will face restrictions on using the benefits to buy some sugary foods.
Mortgage rates fall to their lowest level in 2025
The average cost of a conventional 30-year U.S. mortgage continues to edge down, while rates on other home loans fell to less than 5.5%.
These national and regional retailers went out of business in 2025
More than 8,000 stores closed across the U.S. this year, according to retail industry data, including these well-known brands.
Trump Mobile pushes back release of gold-colored phone
The Trump Organization announced the $499 phone and wireless plan this summer, promising to deliver "all-American service."
Politics
More Politics
Zohran Mamdani sworn in at abandoned NYC subway station, becoming city's 112th mayor
In a private ceremony at the abandoned Old City Hall subway station, Mamdani was sworn in by New York Attorney General Letitia James as the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve.
Chief Justice Roberts says Constitution remains "firm and unshaken"
Chief Justice John Roberts says the Constitution remains a sturdy pillar for the country, a message that comes after a tumultuous year in the nation's judicial system.
Alleged drug smugglers jumped overboard in recent boat strikes, U.S. military says
Three people were killed Tuesday when the first boat was hit, while individuals in two other boats jumped overboard, according to U.S. Southern Command.
Judge voids decision to end legal status of 60,000 immigrants
A U.S. District Court judge issued a summary judgment on Wednesday, finding that the effort to revoke the legal status of tens of thousands of Hondurans, Nepalis and Nicaraguans was unlawful
Some states set to impose SNAP bans on soda, candy and other foods
Starting January 1, food-stamp recipients in five U.S. states will face restrictions on using the benefits to buy some sugary foods.
HealthWatch
More HealthWatch
HealthWatch
Some states ban junk food from SNAP benefits
In 2026, several states are set to prohibit individuals from purchasing certain junk food items using their federal benefits. Meg Oliver has the details.
Flu cases spiking this holiday season, CDC data shows
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says 32 jurisdictions are showing "high" or "very high" levels of flu.
New California tortilla law aims to decrease birth defects in Latino babies
Mom-and-pop shops will be exempt from this change, but big manufacturers in California will need to start adding folic acid to tortillas beginning January 1.
Advances in treatment for Alzheimer's disease
The number of Americans with Alzheimer's disease is expected to double from 7 million in 2020 to 14 million by 2060, according to the CDC. However, advances in treatment options are giving more people hope in slowing the decline. Dr. Jon LaPook breaks it down.
Flu cases skyrocket across the U.S
Nearly five million flu cases have been reported nationwide, the CDC estimates, and at least 1,900 people have died from the virus. "CBS Saturday Morning" has more on why this year's strain is breaking records.
World
More World
Dozens feared dead as fire hits New Year's revelers in Swiss Alps bar
Police in Switzerland say a fire at a bar in the Crans-Montana ski resort area is believed to have left "several tens of people" dead and dozens more injured.
France defends granting George Clooney and his family French citizenship
George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, were granted French citizenship because "they contribute, through their distinguished actions, to France's international influence and cultural outreach," the French government said.
British boxer Anthony Joshua released from hospital after crash in Nigeria
The two-time former heavyweight champion and Olympic gold medalist was involved in a fatal road crash near Lagos on Monday.
Alleged drug smugglers jumped overboard in recent boat strikes, U.S. military says
Three people were killed Tuesday when the first boat was hit, while individuals in two other boats jumped overboard, according to U.S. Southern Command.
U.S. sanctions 4 firms, oil tankers with ties to Venezuela
The latest wave of sanctions targets oil traders and vessels that are helping prop up President Nicolás Maduro's regime, the Treasury Department said.
Entertainment
More Entertainment
France defends granting George Clooney and his family French citizenship
George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, were granted French citizenship because "they contribute, through their distinguished actions, to France's international influence and cultural outreach," the French government said.
Notable works entering the public domain in 2026
Here are the significant books, films and characters joining the list of works in the public domain on Jan. 1, 2026.
Noah Wyle on authenticity of "The Pitt"
The hit series "The Pitt" has earned praise for its realistic look at the pressures facing health care workers. Chief medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook spoke to the star of the show, Noah Wyle, for "CBS Sunday Morning." Wyle talked about how the cast prepared for their roles beyond learning their lines before shooting the series even began.
Here's who's performing on New Year's Eve to ring in 2026
Here's what to know about the lineup of performances scheduled for New Year's Eve, as crowds gather in Times Square to ring in 2026.
Isiah Whitlock Jr., actor known for his roles in "The Wire" and "Veep," dies at 71
Isiah Whitlock Jr. is perhaps best known for his role as state Sen. R. Clayton "Clay" Davis on HBO's "The Wire."
Technology
More Technology
Technology
Economic oasis emerges in the Arizona desert
Arizona is fast becoming a major hub for computer chip production thanks to what's being called the largest foreign direct investment in U.S. history. Kris Van Cleave takes us to a sprawling campus in Phoenix that is providing thousands of jobs while reducing America's reliance on overseas products.
OpenAI hiring for head safety executive to mitigate AI risks
The company's investment in safety prevention comes amid growing concerns over the potential harm of artificial intelligence.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
Instacart ending AI price tests for retailers
Instacart says its ending its controversial system of using AI price tests for retailers. Earlier this month, an investigation by Consumer Reports and progressive think tank Groundwork Collaborative found that Instacart's algorithmic pricing charged various prices for the same item from the same store. Jo Ling Kent reports.
Tech companies push for data centers
Massive tech companies wanting to build more data centers in the U.S. are lobbying for support among Americans, according to a recent report by POLITICO. Gabby Miller joins CBS News with more on her reporting.
Science
More Science
2025 was so hot it pushed Earth past critical climate change mark
2025 was the third hottest year on record and pushed Earth past a critical climate change mark, scientists say.
Major climate research center on Trump administration chopping block
The Trump administration intends to dismantle one of the world's leading climate research institutions, in Boulder, Colorado, over what it said were concerns about "climate alarmism."
Researchers capture video of rare polar bear adoption
The footage of a bear caring for an adopted cub was captured during the annual polar bear migration along the Western Hudson Bay in Churchill, Manitoba.
Dinosaur tracks showing "herds moving in synchrony" found in Italy
Most of the footprints are elongated and made by bipeds. The best-preserved ones bear traces of at least four toes.
Interstellar comet is making its closest approach to Earth
NASA continues to aim its space telescopes at the visiting ice ball, estimated to be up to 3.5 miles in size.
Crime
More Crime
Crime
Fallout grows over freezing of child care funds
After the Trump administration paused federal assistance to child care centers in Minnesota, parents are now wondering if their kids' day care is in jeopardy, as the government investigates fraud claims. Jonah Kaplan has been following this developing story.
Epstein survivors decry delay in releasing files
There may be millions of documents the Justice Department still needs to release from the case against convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. By law, those files were required to be made public nearly two weeks ago. Scott MacFarlane has the latest.
Day care in Minneapolis vandalized after viral video purporting fraud
A Minneapolis day care says that vandals damaged the facility early this week, after a YouTube video purporting to expose fraud among day cares in the Twin Cities metro area went viral.
New details on charges against Stefon Diggs
Patriots star Stefon Diggs is facing charges of strangulation, assault and battery following an incident in Massachusetts earlier this month. Diggs' attorney, David Meier, said in a statement that the wide receiver "categorically denies" the allegations and "looks forward to establishing the truth" in court. CBS News Boston's Aaron Parseghian has more.
New Orleans marks 1 year since terror attack
New Orleans is marking one year since 14 people were killed and dozens more were injured in a terror attack on the city's iconic Bourbon Street. Kati Weis spoke to the family of one of the victims about how they're remembering their loved one.
Space
More Space
Space
NASA's search for next lunar rover
NASA astronauts took their first drive on the moon 54 years ago. Now, three companies are competing for a NASA contract to build a new lunar rover for use starting with the Artemis 5 mission in 2030. Kris Van Cleave reports.
Artemis 2 astronauts rehearse countdown for upcoming moon launch
NASA is gearing up to send four Artemis astronauts on looping test flight around the moon in 2026.
Woman is first wheelchair user launched into space
A German aerospace engineer made history Saturday, becoming the first wheelchair user to go into space when she took a 10-minute trip aboard a Blue Origin rocket.
Blue Origin safely launches wheelchair user to space and back
German engineer Michaela Benthaus is the first person with a significant physical handicap to reach space.
Jared Isaacman, billionaire who's flown with SpaceX, confirmed to lead NASA
President Trump withdrew Isaacman's nomination for NASA administrator in April, before nominating him again in November.
Latest Galleries
More Latest Galleries
Notable Deaths in 2025
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Evidence in the Barbara Kendhammer case
Does the evidence show a cover-up, or was Todd Kendhammer wrongfully convicted for the murder of his wife?
The life & near death of prizefighter Christy Salters-Martin
Christy Salters-Martin dominated in the boxing ring but faced her toughest challenger at home.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Who is Alix Tichelman?
Meet the tattooed beauty charged in the death of Google executive Forrest Hayes.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
Economic oasis emerges in the Arizona desert
Arizona is fast becoming a major hub for computer chip production thanks to what's being called the largest foreign direct investment in U.S. history. Kris Van Cleave takes us to a sprawling campus in Phoenix that is providing thousands of jobs while reducing America's reliance on overseas products.
Fallout grows over freezing of child care funds
After the Trump administration paused federal assistance to child care centers in Minnesota, parents are now wondering if their kids' day care is in jeopardy, as the government investigates fraud claims. Jonah Kaplan has been following this developing story.
Some states ban junk food from SNAP benefits
In 2026, several states are set to prohibit individuals from purchasing certain junk food items using their federal benefits. Meg Oliver has the details.
Epstein survivors decry delay in releasing files
There may be millions of documents the Justice Department still needs to release from the case against convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. By law, those files were required to be made public nearly two weeks ago. Scott MacFarlane has the latest.
Parts of U.S. ushering in new year under snow
As thousands in the U.S. gear up to celebrate the new year, snow and rain are coming down harder in parts of the country. Meteorologist Rob Marciano has the latest forecast.