New Bodies Discovered, Serial Killer Suspected by Barnabas Cuffe
LONDON - Two more bodies were discovered on the steps of Gringott's Bank early this morning, causing the bank to remain closed for most of the morning. The two victims, muggleborn Astra Wilder (42) and her 16-year-old son Cyrus, were discovered by goblins shortly before the bank was due to open. Hit Wizards were called and cordoned off the scene to conduct their investigation, but eye-witnesses described it as "the most depraved thing I've ever seen." Both victims had elements of the Dark Mark carved into their bodies.
Aurors believe this attack to be connected to several other brutal crimes committed over the past couple of weeks. Other mutilated bodies were discovered on the 26th and 28th of November with scars and symbols carved into their bodies. All of the victims have been muggleborns, but the connection was not previously made due to the difference in the mutilations and in the disposal methods.
"It's a sign of escalation," said Hit Wizard Bilius Weasley, who responded to the latest discovery. "The first bodies were dumped in an alley - they were a test. The next were left right outside the Leaky Cauldron - that means the killer is getting more confident. Serial killers will often refine their style with each crime, but a few aspects are always the same." In this case, those constant aspects appear to be the carving of purist symbols and a very public disposal.
It is almost certain that the criminal is a Death Eater, or a Death Eater supporter, and it is suspected that he or she is responsible for at least 7 deaths so far. Lead Auror on the case Gabrielle Perrault commented, "The public can rest assured that I and my colleagues will not rest until the person or persons responsible are brought to justice."
Budget for New Year Delayed by Dean Ingold
LONDON - The Ministry of Magic budget committee is behind schedule compiling the 1979 yearly budget, which is due to the Minister by December 5th. The budget discussions, which started in early November, are traditionally conducted by a committee of Minister-appointed advisers. Discussions this year, however, have been delayed by a badly divided committee. Two parties have emerged, the more conservative of which is headed by Financial Adviser Edward Nott and calls for an increase in both taxes and long-term government investing. The more progressive party, lead by Tiberius Ogden, calls for increased government spending to stimulate the economy, to run in conjunction with some radical new policies. Talks have come to a proverbial stand-still, and it is uncertain whether or not the committee will meet their deadline.
Falmouth Falcons Upset Qudditch Standings, Beat Tornadoes 290-80 by Susan McCormack
FALMOUTH - The Falcons created a huge upset in their game against the Tutshill Tornadoes last night, winning the game 290-80. The Falcons were ranked 9th in League standings and expected to fall easily to the #1-ranked Tornadoes. This raises the Falcons' standing to 5th place and ensures them a place in next year's Championship Cup.
The Falcons's defense was especially firm, no doubt thanks to the new changes Captain Micheal Tanner put in place. Reserve Chaser Mopsa Mullet was brought forward despite an injury last month and replaced starting Chaser Andrea Hornblower, who's record this season has been steadily declining. Mullet made an impression in her first full-length match that was surpassed only by Benjamin Beery, who surprised fans by taking up the Keeper position instead of his usual Beater. The musical brooms did not end there, as everyone on the pitch seemed to fulfill multiple jobs throughout the course of the game, throwing the Tornadoes into confusion. Tanner may have just struck upon something worth keeping, if he can keep his teammates from getting similarly confused, that is.
Charity Fund for Destroyed Store a Success by Maggie Smith
LONDON - Last week, Rose and Tyler Blunsburg were dealt a devastating blow when the bakery and tea shop that they opened together 5 years ago, The Rose Garden, was destroyed in a Death Eater attack. The Blunsburgs, both muggleborns, were taken in by neighbors after the loss of both their livelihood and their home, but they refused to give up. Though friends and family members both urged them to sell the property and move to a safer location, the Blunsburgs began plans to rebuild the very same day of the attack. Inspired by this steadfast refusal to accept defeat, the patrons and other residents of Diagon Alley have gathered around the Blunsburgs to offer help and to set up a charity fund that will go toward the rebuilding of The Rose Garden. Shops all up and down the Alley have put out collection jars, plates, hats, ect and have told anyone asking the story of the Blunsburgs and by this simple act alone have managed to raise almost a third of the rebuilding cost in only six days! Rose and Tyler say they are touched beyond words at this display of community and support. They plan to stay in Diagon Alley, not matter what the future holds. "This place is our home," says Rose. "It's our lives. Why would we ever let someone make us leave?"