MARYLAND
Apartment fire kills three
A woman, her son and her niece were killed early yesterday morning in a fast-moving fire that spread through their Franklintown apartment and displaced about a dozen other families. pg 1b
WORLD
N. Korea shuts down reactor
North Korea told the United States yesterday that it had shut down its nuclear reactor at Yongbyon and readmitted a permanent international inspection team, its first step toward reversing a four-year confrontation with the United States during which North Korea has made fuel for a small but potent arsenal of nuclear weapons. pg 14a
Russia suspends arms treaty
Russian President Vladimir V. Putin yesterday suspended his country's participation in a Cold War-era conventional arms-control pact that is looked upon as a cornerstone of European security. Putin's action deepens the rift between the Kremlin and Western governments. pg 14a
NATIONAL
Archdiocese settles abuse cases
The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Los Angeles will settle its clergy abuse cases for at least $600 million, by far the largest payout in the church's sexual abuse scandal. Attorneys for the archdiocese and the plaintiffs are expected to announce the deal tomorrow. pg 3a
BUSINESS
Foreclosures crowd the market
Thanks to a sharp rise in foreclosures, homebuyers are increasingly likely to encounter bank-owned properties in the housing market listed for sale, offered at auction or even praised as a good deal on lenders' Web sites. But getting a bargain on a foreclosed home is hardly a sure bet. pg 1c
SPORTS
Mora goes on disabled list
The Orioles place third baseman Melvin Mora on the 15-day disabled list with a Grade 1 sprain in his left foot. pg 9d
MODERN LIFE
Every dog has his day
The patter of little feet these days is likely to be four paws, as Americans lavish their pets with treats, toys, clothes and even strollers. A new survey finds owners spending record amounts on pet pampering. pg 1n