As the US celebrates its 249th Independence Day, a mix of festive celebrations and political protests marks the occasion. With the 250th anniversary on the horizon, Americans reflect on their nation's history, from fireworks and parades to discussions on freedom and national unity.

Police on Monday announced they had captured a person of interest associated with a shooting that killed six people and wounded more than 36 when a man with a high-powered rifle opened fire from a rooftop at a Fourth of July parade in the Chicago suburb of Highland Park.