How and why do certain news stories capture public attention?

The news might cover only specific stories because of limited resources or because those stories fit a particular agenda or narrative. Also, sometimes it's based on what's considered most newsworthy at the time.

It's often to attract more viewers and increase ratings. When a story gets a lot of hype, it catches people's attention and they tune in.

Because sharks are mysterious creatures. We don't fully understand their behavior all the time. So when there's a scary story about them, it makes us curious and a bit scared at the same time.

Maybe they lack sufficient evidence or reliable sources to be published.

Well, they often create intrigue. For example, the opening of 'The Great Gatsby' - 'In my younger and more vulnerable years my father gave me some advice that I've been turning over in my mind ever since. "Whenever you feel like criticizing any one," he told me, "just remember that all the people in this world haven't had the advantages that you've had."' This makes you curious about what that advice will lead to and what kind of story the narrator has to tell. It's like a hook that pulls you in.

They often start with something unexpected. For example, in 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory', 'These two very old people are the father and mother of Mr. Bucket.' It makes you wonder who Mr. Bucket is and what the story will be about.

By creating mystery. For instance, a first line that poses a question or presents a strange situation makes the reader want to find out more.

Great opening lines often introduce an element of mystery or intrigue. For example, in 'The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy' with 'Far out in the uncharted backwaters of the unfashionable end of the Western Spiral arm of the Galaxy lies a small unregarded yellow sun.' It makes you wonder about this strange, uncharted place.

Well, they often introduce a mysterious or alluring character right away. For example, 'She had eyes that held a thousand secrets, and he was determined to unlock every one.' It makes you curious about the woman and the man's intentions.

It really varies. Some news stories might only be in the spotlight for a day or two, while others could stay relevant for weeks or even months.