In the Nation

LOS ANGELES - Eight people were under arrest yesterday after several dozen protesters shouting "no justice, no peace" attacked University of California, Berkeley, Chancellor Robert Birgeneau's home on campus, smashing windows, lights, and planters, and throwing torches at the house and police vehicles, authorities said.

The Friday night attack followed a four-day occupation of the school's Wheeler Hall and the arrest of 66 people who were protesting state funding cutbacks and a steep increase in student fees throughout the University of California system. They were released later.

No injuries or fires were reported in Friday's attack. Those arrested were charged with rioting, threatening an education official, attempted burglary, attempted arson, felony vandalism, and assault. They were being held yesterday on $132,000 bond each.

"These are criminals, not activists," Birgeneau said in a statement. "The attack at our home was extraordinarily frightening and violent. My wife and I genuinely feared for our lives."

- Los Angeles Times

WEST VALLEY CITY, Utah - Friends and family of a 28-year-old mother who disappeared nearly a week ago are fasting and praying for her safe return as volunteers post thousands of fliers with her image on it.

Susan Powell was reported missing Monday under what police are calling suspicious circumstances. A prayer service attended by about 100 people was held for her yesterday in West Valley City.

Since she was reported missing, authorities have questioned her husband and searched a desert area where he said he took the couple's two children, ages 2 and 4, camping early Monday in freezing conditions. Josh Powell returned Monday night, after police had already received a call from relatives who had not heard from the Powell family.

- AP

ORLANDO, Fla. - A Florida mother charged with killing her 2-year-old daughter sobbed in court Friday as a prosecutor speculated that the toddler was methodically drugged and suffocated with tape.

Casey Anthony cried as prosecutor Jeff Ashton suggested that Caylee Anthony's killer restrained her arms, dosed her with something that knocked her unconscious, and put duct tape over her mouth and nose. The cause of Caylee's death remains unknown, but duct tape was found on the body.

Ashton offered the scenario when explaining why he believes the case would qualify for the death penalty. Anthony has pleaded not guilty, and her trial is expected to start next year.

- AP

Rescue crews found the body of one of three climbers missing on Mount Hood, Ore., after a daylong search yesterday in harsh weather. Authorities said the search for the other two would resume today. The climbers, described as in their 20s and experienced, had been expected back Friday afternoon.