As far as I'm concerned, a kidnapping case from two states away isn't news.

News is something which could affect me or which I could affect; if it's an Amber Alert from my hometown or close by, it's news in a vague sense that, in theory, I might have some effect on it. (Statistically I'd have a better shot at winning a small prize in a lottery, but still...)

So: The Columbine school shooting? Not news. I've never lived near Columbine. The laws and changing social attitudes as a result of that? News.