August 28

Fatimah bint Muhammad, revered by Muslims, died on this day in 632 CE. She was the youngest daughter of the Prophet Muhammad and his wife Khadijah. Her death and its causes remain a matter of theological debate between Sunni and Shia traditions. Shia sources often highlight her suffering after her father's death, while Sunni accounts differ. Fatimah's legacy includes her role as an exemplar of piety and her marriage to Ali ibn Abi Talib. She is honored by millions as a symbol of devotion and righteousness. Her burial place is a subject of pilgrimage and scholarly discussion.

On August 28, 1973, bank robber Jan-Erik Olsson took four hostages inside Sweden's Kreditbanken at Norrmalmstorg Square. When Olsson's accomplice, Clark Olofsson, was brought in, he helped negotiate with the hostages. The standoff lasted six days, as police and negotiators worked to secure a peaceful resolution. During the crisis, hostages displayed sympathy toward their captors, refusing to testify against them—behavior that later became known as "Stockholm syndrome." Ultimately, negotiators agreed to a prisoner exchange and safe passage for the robbers in return for the hostages' release. The incident marked a turning point in police negotiation tactics worldwide. It also raised psychological questions about the bonds formed between captives and captors. The term "Stockholm syndrome" entered the lexicon as a result.

On August 28, 2003, Brian Wells, a pizza delivery man, lost his life in what would become known as the 'collar bomb' case. He was forced to rob a bank with an explosive device locked around his neck as part of an intricate scavenger hunt scheme. After exiting the bank, the device detonated, killing Wells instantly. The FBI described the case as one of the most complex and bizarre crimes in its history. Subsequent investigations revealed multiple conspirators and unanswered questions. The incident sparked widespread media coverage and public fascination. Legal proceedings against the accused dragged on for years, highlighting challenges in prosecuting such unusual crimes. The tragedy remains a haunting example of an elaborate and deadly criminal plot.

On August 28, 2022, a man opened fire on pedestrians outside a hotel in downtown Phoenix, killing two victims before being fatally shot himself. The incident occurred late in the evening near popular city streets, alarming residents and prompting a swift police response. First responders arrived within minutes, securing the area and aiding the wounded. Authorities later identified the shooter as a local resident with a history of mental health issues. Although motives remain unclear, investigators continue to piece together the events leading to the violence. The tragic episode sparked community discussions about public safety and gun control policies. Memorials and vigils were held in the following days to honor the victims, emphasizing the impact of sudden violence on urban life.