Renowned fashion designer and long-time partner of Mick Jagger, L’Wren Scott , was found dead in her Manhattan apartment in an apparent suicide.

Following a Sunday vote, Crimea's parliament formally declared independence from Ukraine to join Russia, reporting a 96% majority in favor.

Actor Wayne Knight , famous for his role in Seinfeld , took to Twitter to debunk a viral hoax claiming he had died in a car accident. News Roundup and Notes: Just Security

Government forces, supported by Hezbollah, seized the strategic rebel-held town of Yabrud near the Lebanese border.

President Barack Obama announced new sanctions targeting Russian and Ukrainian officials responsible for the "illegal referendum," stating the U.S. would not recognize the secession.

Major sponsors like Guinness and Heineken, as well as New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio , boycotted the NYC parade due to its exclusion of openly gay organizations.

On March 17, 2014, the following major news events occurred:

A 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Chile, prompting temporary tsunami warnings. Culture & Sports