Sarah Palin says she is stepping down as Alaska's governor at the end of the month. The former Republican vice presidential candidate makes the bombshell announcement from her home in Wasilla, Alaska. She does not say what her plans are, but her decision gives rise to speculation that she wants to focus on a run for the White House in 2012.

North Korea fires two missiles off its eastern coast, a South Korean official says. The Defense Ministry is trying to confirm whether they were short- or mid-range missiles. On Thursday, North fired four short-range missiles and it had been expected to launch more.

Elderly identical twin sisters are found dead in their San Antonio home. Authorities believe 82-year-old Florence and Emma Jernigan fell victim to the heat wave that has been gripping the city. The women had one window air conditioner but it was not turned on.

Fire roars through a high-rise apartment building in London, killing six people. There are three children among the victims, including a 7-year-old and a 3-week-old baby. At least 16 other people are injured.

Police interviewing an Ohio woman about a murder case get quite the surprise when a squirrel suddenly pops out of her tank top. The woman pushes the animal back into her top and continues with the interview.