British authorities say they are close to identifying the man who murdered American Journalist James Foley. British newspapers have named several suspects including a former rapper who left London last year to fight in Syria. Britain’s ambassador to the United States says a lot of resources have been put into the investigation.  

 

A strong earthquake has shaken Northern California injuring scores of people. The magnitude-six quake has hit the San Francisco Bay area causing several fires, damaging buildings and rupturing gas and water mains. At least 120 people have been injured, three of them seriously. 

 

Celebrated British actor and film director Richard Attenborough has died. He was 90. Lord Attenborough’s career spanned six decades. He starred in many films including the World War Two drama the Great Escape and the Blockbuster Jurassic Park. He also won the best director Oscar for Ghandi.

 

The federal government has been ramping up its budget warning as MPs return to Canberra today after the winter break. Finance minister Mathias Continues to block key budget measures.