News of the day from across the nation, Jan. 1

1 Parents killed: A 16-year-old armed with an assault rifle fatally shot his parents, sister and a family friend in a gruesome burst of violence that took place just before the start of the new year, officials in New Jersey said Monday. The teen, who was not identified, is expected to be charged with four counts of murder, prosecutor Christopher Gramiccioni said. The incident unfolded just before midnight Sunday at the family’s house in Long Branch. Officials did not say what sparked the outburst. The teenager’s grandfather and brother were able to escape. The victims were identified as Linda and Steven Kologi, 42 and 44; Britney Kologi, 18; and Mary Shultz, 70.