Mysterious origin of the "tree of life" revealed
The trees have been called both "grotesque" and "one of the most charismatic species on our planet" – and now we know where they came from.
Tree of Life
Note to Self: Rabbi Jeffrey Myers
In a special edition of "Note to Self," "CBS Mornings" hears from Rabbi Jeffrey Myers five years after a gunman opened fire on Pittsburgh's Tree of Life synagogue during Sabbath services, killing 11 people. It was the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history. Myers was in the building that morning, where he helped congregants shelter and evacuate. Now, he's taking a look back at the tragic day, and he's looking ahead, to his community's future.
FBI monitoring potential hate crimes as 5-year commemoration of Pittsburgh synagogue shooting approaches
KDKA's John Shumway has the perspective of the people who work daily to prevent hate-related violence here in Pittsburgh.
Man pleads guilty to threatening jurors in synagogue shooting trial
According to an affidavit, Hardy Carroll Lloyd wrote threatening posts on social media and websites and also sent emails to the jury and witnesses during the trial.
Pittsburgh synagogue shooter gets death sentence
A jury recommended the death sentence for the man who killed 11 worshippers at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh in 2018. Shanelle Kaul reports.
Death penalty for Tree of Life shooter
A jury has unanimously recommended the death sentence for the gunman who killed 11 people at a Pittsburgh synagogue in 2018. Robert Bowers was convicted in June of 63 counts related to the shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue, believed to be the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history.
Jury deciding Tree of Life gunman's sentence
A federal jury in Pittsburgh is deciding whether the gunman who killed 11 people at the Tree of Life synagogue in 2018 will be put to death. In June, Robert Bowers was convicted of 63 criminal counts related to the shooting, the deadliest antisemitic attack in American history. CBS News Pittsburgh investigative reporter Andy Sheehan has the latest.
Synagogue shooter eligible for death penalty
A federal jury in the trial of the Pittsburgh synagogue mass shooter has decided he is eligible for the death penalty. The panel reached a decision in less than two hours. Prosecutors say Robert Bowers acted "out of pure hate" when he killed 11 people in October of 2018. Reporter Andy Sheehan has more.
Pittsburgh synagogue mass shooter found eligible for death penalty
The jury agreed with prosecutors that Robert Bowers had formed the requisite legal intent to kill.
Pittsburgh shooter could face death penalty
A jury on Friday found 50-year-old truck driver Robert Bowers guilty on all counts in the 2018 shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue that killed 11 worshipers and left seven people wounded. Bowers had a history of spewing antisemitic hatred and his attorneys admitted during trial that he was responsible for the massacre. CBS News Pittsburgh reporter Meghan Schiller reports from outside the courthouse.
Pittsburgh synagogue gunman convicted
Robert Bowers was found guilty of all counts in the 2018 massacre at a Pittsburgh synagogue that killed 11 people and injured seven others. The trial will take a one-week break before moving to the sentencing phase, where the jury will decide whether Bowers should get the death penalty.
Pittsburgh synagogue shooter found guilty in Tree of Life attack
Defense attorneys admitted during trial that he was responsible for the massacre that killed 11 people and wounded 7.
Pittsburgh synagogue shooting trial underway
A second day of jury selection is underway in the federal hate crime case against the man charged in the deadliest antisemitic attack in U.S. history. Robert Bowers is accused of killing 11 and wounding two others at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh in 2018. CBS News legal contributor and Loyola Law School professor Jessica Levinson discusses the case.
Death penalty trial begins in 2018 killing of 11 at Pittsburgh synagogue
The families of those killed were divided over whether the government should pursue the death penalty, but most were in favor.
Antisemitism uptick 4 years after synagogue attack
The Jewish community in Pittsburgh came together to honor the memory of those who were murdered four years ago at the Tree of Life Synagogue. The ceremony comes as antisemitism is on the rise nationwide and as fallout from Kanye West's antisemitic comments continues. Elise Preston has the details.
4 years since Tree of Life synagogue attack
A commemoration ceremony is taking place in Pittsburgh to mark four years since the massacre at the Tree of Life synagogue where 11 people were killed. The anniversary comes as antisemitic incidents in the U.S. have hit an all-time high — including hateful remarks from superstar Kanye West. CBS News' Bradley Blackburn reports.
New book details life after synagogue shooting
Over the last three years, the Jewish community in the Squirrel Hill neighborhood of Pittsburgh has come to rely on hope. In October of 2018, 11 Jews were murdered while worshipping in a local synagogue. The horrific attack is the subject of a new book, “Squirrel Hill: The Tree of Life Synagogue Shooting and the Soul of a Neighborhood.” Author Mark Oppenheimer spoke to Dana Jacobson about how the entire community rallied, illuminating the idea of hope, to overcome the darkness of hate.
3 years since Tree of Life synagogue massacre
Three years ago today, a gunman armed with an assault rifle and multiple handguns opened fire inside the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh. It is considered the deadliest antisemetic attack to take place on U.S. soil. Rabbi Hazzan Jeffrey Myers, who survived the massacre, joins CBSN to discuss that devastating day and how the community has come together.
Darwin's early notebooks on evolution feared "stolen" from Cambridge
The notebooks, missing since 2001 and worth millions, contain Darwin's "Tree of Life" sketch and notes on his then-revolutionary thoughts on the natural world.
Hate crime murders reached record high
Hate crime murders in the U.S. reached a 27-year high in 2018, according to data released Tuesday by the FBI. Twenty-four people were killed in incidents classified as hate crimes, which includes the 11 worshipers slain last year at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh, the deadliest anti-Semitic crime in U.S. history.
Tree of Life Synagogue to reopen as "symbol against hatred"
Pittsburgh synagogue is the site of a 2018 mass shooting where 11 people were fatally shot.
Pittsburgh newspaper donates Pulitzer Prize money to synagogue
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette has donated its $15,000 Pulitzer Prize winnings to the Tree of Life – Or L'Simcha Congregation, where 11 people were shot and killed last October
Pittsburgh approves gun restrictions months after synagogue shooting
Pro-gun advocates have already vowed to take legal action against the new gun control measures
Trump celebrates Hanukkah at the White House
In his first of two Hanukkah events, President Trump remembered the life of former President George H.W. Bush, calling him a wonderful man. He went on to condemn anti-Semitism, specifically mentioning the mass shooting at the Tree of Life Synagogue. Watch his remarks here.
Carolina Panthers bring flowers to Tree of Life before Steelers game
#StrongerThanHate: A message from the Carolina Panthers football team ahead of Thursday's game
Live
Trump says Strait of Hormuz deal could happen as soon as today
President Trump told reporters Tuesday evening that an announcement on the Strait of Hormuz could happen today or tomorrow, following talks between Iran and Oman.
Progressive Abdul El-Sayed projected to win Michigan Democratic Senate primary
Former state health official Abdul El-Sayed faced Rep. Haley Stevens in the Democratic Senate primary in Michigan in a closely watched contest that represented the latest test of the party's divisions.
White House declassifies info on secret FBI probe into Trump's firing of Comey
The White House has declassified information claiming the FBI probed whether President Trump acted as a Russian asset when he fired James Comey, a theory an administration official said wasn't backed up by evidence.
Abdul El-Sayed says "there's a lot of healing to do" after Senate primary
Abdul El-Sayed has a narrow led in the state's Democratic Senate primary against Rep. Haley Stevens.
First on CBS
Senator pushes DoD to release probe of Iranian attack that killed 6 U.S. troops
A CBS News investigation found troops had flagged military leaders about the lack of defenses and insufficient medical supplies ahead of the attack in Kuwait at the beginning of the war with Iran.
Senate confirms Erica Schwartz as CDC director
The Senate confirmed Dr. Erica Schwartz in a 51 to 44 vote.
Pirro brought box of evidence to show Trump what caused Reflecting Pool damage
U.S. Attorney for D.C. Jeanine Pirro was seen with a large box as she left the White House Monday after her meeting with President Trump.
Perez Hilton hospitalized after livestreaming acts of self-harm, officials say
In the livestream, which has since been taken down, Hilton appears to be bloodied and in a distressed mental state.
Norah O'Donnell: 7 things I learned from trainer Kira Stokes
Kira Stokes, who has been in the fitness industry for three decades, taught me to treat movement as medicine for both your body and mind.
U.S.
More U.S.
Some Gen Zers swap smartphones for "dumb" phones in a bid to unplug
"It really opens up your mind," said one 23-year-old who ditched smartphones to wean herself off social media.
Senate confirms Erica Schwartz as CDC director
The Senate confirmed Dr. Erica Schwartz in a 51 to 44 vote.
Why SpaceX stock is falling despite strong revenue growth
Investors are focused on whether SpaceX will be able to deliver on its ambitious artificial intelligence agenda.
First on CBS
Senator pushes DoD to release probe of Iranian attack that killed 6 U.S. troops
A CBS News investigation found troops had flagged military leaders about the lack of defenses and insufficient medical supplies ahead of the attack in Kuwait at the beginning of the war with Iran.
Abdul El-Sayed says "there's a lot of healing to do" after Senate primary
Abdul El-Sayed is now projected to win Michigan's Democratic Senate primary against Rep. Haley Stevens.
MoneyWatch
More MoneyWatch
Some Gen Zers swap smartphones for "dumb" phones in a bid to unplug
"It really opens up your mind," said one 23-year-old who ditched smartphones to wean herself off social media.
Why SpaceX stock is falling despite strong revenue growth
Investors are focused on whether SpaceX will be able to deliver on its ambitious artificial intelligence agenda.
Disney partners with TikTok to offer creator content on its app
Disney and TikTok are teaming up to let users create short-form videos that draw on the entertainment giant's large stable of movies and TV shows.
SpaceX shows strong growth in its first earnings report since IPO
Elon Musk's rocket, satellite and AI provider reported quarterly revenue of $7.8 billion, topping Wall Street forecasts.
Chipotle removes jalapeños linked to Minnesota salmonella outbreak
The restaurant chain said it pulled the peppers and replaced them with product from another grower amid a food-poisoning probe.
Politics
More Politics
Senate confirms Erica Schwartz as CDC director
The Senate confirmed Dr. Erica Schwartz in a 51 to 44 vote.
$25 million reward offered for U.S.-born leader of powerful cartel
Juan Carlos González is the stepson of "El Mencho," who was killed by the Mexican military.
First on CBS
Senator pushes DoD to release probe of Iranian attack that killed 6 U.S. troops
A CBS News investigation found troops had flagged military leaders about the lack of defenses and insufficient medical supplies ahead of the attack in Kuwait at the beginning of the war with Iran.
Progressive Abdul El-Sayed projected to win Michigan Democratic Senate primary
Former state health official Abdul El-Sayed faced Rep. Haley Stevens in the Democratic Senate primary in Michigan in a closely watched contest that represented the latest test of the party's divisions.
Abdul El-Sayed says "there's a lot of healing to do" after Senate primary
Abdul El-Sayed is now projected to win Michigan's Democratic Senate primary against Rep. Haley Stevens.
HealthWatch
More HealthWatch
Norah O'Donnell: 7 things I learned from trainer Kira Stokes
Kira Stokes, who has been in the fitness industry for three decades, taught me to treat movement as medicine for both your body and mind.
Exercise: Your Insurance Policy for the Future
In this episode of Healthful, Norah O'Donnell is joined by her personal trainer and fitness expert, Kira Stokes. Since they started exercising together 12 years ago, Kira pushed Norah to lift heavier weights - something Norah initially resisted. Norah has since learned that you lose up to 8-percent of your muscle mass every decade after the age of 30. The two discuss the emotional connection between movement and mental health, how to get started exercising, and what about those weighted vests! Plus - Norah answers what her favorite and least favorite exercises are. We'd love to hear what topics you want to hear covered on Healthful. Text Norah at 202-217-1107.
Chipotle suspected in salmonella outbreak
At least 110 people have fallen ill from salmonella in Minnesota, the vast majority of whom reported having eaten at the Mexican chain Chipotle. Tom Hanson has the story.
Michigan reports 2 cyclosporiasis deaths
Two people have died of cyclosporiasis in Michigan, officials said Monday, as the state battles the worst outbreak of the disease in the country. Carter Evans has the details.
Michigan health officials report 2 deaths among cyclosporiasis cases
Two Michigan residents who had "significant underlying health conditions" have died after contracting cyclosporiasis, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services said.
World
More World
$25 million reward offered for U.S.-born leader of powerful cartel
Juan Carlos González is the stepson of "El Mencho," who was killed by the Mexican military.
Baby "cocaine hippo" linked to infamous drug lord is rescued in Colombia
Colombia has around 200 so-called "cocaine hippos" living in the wild, all of which descended from a colony brought to South America by slain cocaine kingpin Pablo Escobar.
Record-low Danube River levels threaten shutdown of Hungary's nuclear plant
Three of four units of Hungary's Paks nuclear power plant were not in operation and the fourth was operating at about 50%, as of Wednesday morning.
Russian drone factory director seriously injured in car explosion
Vladimir Tkachuk has been pictured showcasing his drones to President Vladimir Putin.
First on CBS
Senator pushes DoD to release probe of Iranian attack that killed 6 U.S. troops
A CBS News investigation found troops had flagged military leaders about the lack of defenses and insufficient medical supplies ahead of the attack in Kuwait at the beginning of the war with Iran.
Entertainment
More Entertainment
Entertainment
Aaron Pierre talks new series, "Lanterns"
Actor Aaron Pierre is starring as John Stewart in the new series "Lanterns." He tells "CBS Mornings" why this character is special to him, what it's like to join the DC Universe and how he managed undergoing surgery during the audition process.
Stranger rescues band from car troubles
A kind stranger named Ernie helped rock band The Autumn Kings make it to their tour stop after their car broke down in Wisconsin. Matt Gutman reports.
Ariana Grande on her plans to take break
One day after announcing she'll step back from the spotlight after her tour ends, Ariana Grande spoke directly to fans at Monday night's show in Chicago. The singer said the decision was her own and "was made from a thoughtful and empowered place."
Jordan Roth talks "The Shards"
Tony Award-winning producer Jordan Roth talks about starring in the "The Shards" and describes what it was like to go from behind the scenes on Broadway to making his major on-screen acting debut.
Hollywood on hot streak at the box office
"Spider-Man: Brand New Day" leapt straight to the top of the box office this weekend. Its $360 million opening weekend debut is the biggest in U.S. history. Marlow Stern, chief correspondent at Variety, joins CBS News to discuss all the latest movie news.
Technology
More Technology
Some Gen Zers swap smartphones for "dumb" phones in a bid to unplug
"It really opens up your mind," said one 23-year-old who ditched smartphones to wean herself off social media.
Why SpaceX stock is falling despite strong revenue growth
Investors are focused on whether SpaceX will be able to deliver on its ambitious artificial intelligence agenda.
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.
Disney partners with TikTok to offer creator content on its app
Disney and TikTok are teaming up to let users create short-form videos that draw on the entertainment giant's large stable of movies and TV shows.
Myspace plans relaunch
Y2K nostalgia is in full swing -- and soon, 2000s social media site Myspace may be making a full comeback to the World Wide Web. TechRadar editor-at-large Lance Ulanoff shares his reaction.
Science
More Science
Science
Bezos, DiCaprio set up massive wildlife fund
Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio and Amazon founder Jeff Bezos have announced a $200 million fund set to protect species on the brink of extinction. Carter Evans has the story.
Dramatic photos show lava spewing from Fuego volcano in Guatemala
Guatemalan officials on Monday began evacuating two villages near the Fuego volcano due to the ongoing eruption.
Rare footage of humpback whale birth captured on drone video
The footage is believed to be only the fourth complete humpback whale birth ever recorded on film anywhere in the world and the first-ever captured by drone.
Rare video shows humpback whale birth
A photographer operating a drone off the coast of Australia captured a humpback whale giving birth. It's believed to be the first time such a birth has been recorded by a drone.
How plants feel
Science shows us that, even though plants don't have brains, they seem to have a nervous system that responds to touch in remarkable ways. Robert Krulwich and puppeteer Barnaby Dixon explore the science of thigmomorphogenesis (the phenomenon of plants reacting to outside stimulae), a discussion that plants the seeds for a song.
Crime
More Crime
Crime
Latest details from Lindsay Clancy trial
The murder trial of Lindsay Clancy wrapped its seventh day on Wednesday. Clancy has admitted to killing her three children, but her defense says she was experiencing an extreme mental health crisis at the time of their deaths. CBS News' Shanelle Kaul has more.
$25 million reward offered for U.S.-born leader of powerful cartel
Juan Carlos González is the stepson of "El Mencho," who was killed by the Mexican military.
Russian drone factory director seriously injured in car explosion
Vladimir Tkachuk has been pictured showcasing his drones to President Vladimir Putin.
What is postpartum psychosis?
Massachusetts mom Lindsay Clancy is on trial for murder after she allegedly killed her three children. Her lawyers say that she was overmedicated during her mental health crisis, which sparked postpartum psychosis. Dr. Veerle Bergink, director of Mount Sinai Women's Mental Health Center, explains more about postpartum mental health.
Lindsay Clancy speaks in court at her trial
In court on Tuesday, Lindsay Clancy spoke for the first time as she agreed to a "stipulation of facts" that would fast-track her trial. Her lawyers claim she was mentally ill and not responsible for her actions when she killed her three young children. Shanelle Kaul reports.
Space
More Space
SpaceX rocket booster slams into moon, creating crater that could be 16 feet deep
The impact wasn't visible to the naked eye, but photos are expected to come from a lunar satellite at a later time.
Russian Soyuz brings three home after 8 months at space station
The Soyuz MS-28 landing in Kazakhstan brought a 241-day stay in space to a successful conclusion.
SpaceX's Super Heavy-Starship blasts off on 13th test flight
An upgraded version of the world's most powerful rocket is key to landing NASA astronauts on the moon in the agency's Artemis program.
Meteorite that hit home contains "alien world chemistry," experts say
When scientists examined the preserved fragments of a meteorite that crashed in 2024, they found brine-like fluids and key molecules.
Russian Soyuz rocket launches fresh crew to space station
The new crew will replace three other Soyuz fliers wrapping up a 240-day stay aboard the International Space Station.
Latest Galleries
More Latest Galleries
Notable Deaths in 2026
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Summer music highlights of 2026
Summer is the time to enjoy live music, indoors and out. Scroll through our gallery of some of 2026's leading musical acts, featuring images by CBS News photojournalist Jake Barlow and photographers Ed Spinelli and Kirstine Walton.
Investigating the death of designer Sylvie Cachay
Sylvie Cachay was found dead in an overflowing bathtub at the exclusive Soho House in New York City on Dec. 9, 2010. A water leak at the hotel gave away a timeline that may have revealed her killer.
Photos show celebrations at Obama Presidential Center
The Obama Presidential Center, museum and library opens in Chicago with a star-studded grand opening ceremony and public watch party on Midway Plaisance.
Timeline: The disappearance of George Smith
Family seeks answers in death of newlywed who disappeared in 2005 while on Mediterranean honeymoon cruise.
Latest CBS News Videos
More Latest CBS News Videos
Latest CBS News Videos
SpaceX stock falls on high AI spending
CBS News business contributor Javier David breaks down why SpaceX shares fell on Wednesday after the company announced higher spending on AI in its earnings report.
Spokane braces for continued fire danger
As wind conditions worsen, Washington officials are concerned that firefighters may have an even harder time containing the devastating fires burning the Spokane area. CBS News' Kris Van Cleave and Jessica Burch report.
Trump says Hormuz deal could happen Wednesday
President Trump told reporters "a lot of progress had been made" on reopening the Strait of Hormuz and suggested a deal could be announced as early as Wednesday. CBS News' Natalie Brand has the details.
8/4: The Takeout with Major Garrett
Five states held primary elections Tuesday, including a key Democratic Senate race between Abdul El-Sayed and Haley Stevens.
Info on secret FBI probe into Comey's firing
The White House on Wednesday released information claiming the FBI opened an investigation into whether President Trump was acting as an asset for Russia when he fired FBI Director James Comey. CBS News' Jake Rosen has more.