Your trusted source for local Tampa Bay, FL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A driver lost control of his vehicle and collided with a Florida Highway Patrol patrol car on US-19 in Tarpon Springs on Saturday afternoon. Both the driver and the trooper sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to local hospitals for treatment.
Florida lawmakers convened in St. Petersburg to address the state's escalating home insurance crisis, exacerbated by climate change. Congresswoman Kathy Castor led a roundtable discussion in Shore Acres, an area significantly affected by recent flooding events. Residents reported drastic increases in their insurance premiums, highlighting the urgent need for solutions.
The Celma Mastry Ovarian Cancer Foundation's annual 5k race in St. Petersburg raised over $60,000 to support patients and survivors of ovarian cancer. Linda Condon, a cancer survivor, shared her inspiring journey and the vital assistance she received from the foundation, highlighting the event's significance in fostering community support and awareness.
Polk County Fire Chief Hezedean Smith has resigned following a report highlighting a toxic work environment and low morale within the fire rescue department. The resignation was accepted by County Manager Bill Beasley, emphasizing the serious nature of the allegations.
A Boca Raton-based real estate firm has acquired the Pinellas Business Center in North St. Petersburg for $27.2 million, encompassing 206,275 square feet of flex space. This transaction reflects the ongoing demand for commercial properties in the Tampa Bay area, despite challenging market conditions.
Donald Trump announced plans for mass deportations targeting Springfield, Ohio, and Aurora, Colorado, during a news conference in California. His claims about these cities being overrun by criminal migrants have been disputed by local officials. Trump's remarks have raised concerns about their potential impact on community safety and school threats.
Tampa Police have charged Estaban Del Valle, a 35-year-old man, with making a written threat to conduct a mass shooting at Gorrie Elementary School following his child's suspension. The threat was reported promptly, leading to Del Valle's arrest. Chief Lee Bercaw emphasized that such threats will not be tolerated in the community.
A new law in Florida mandates that all school doors remain locked while students are present, aimed at enhancing school safety. While the law is intended to protect students, some educators, such as third-grade teacher Tracey McConnell, argue that it hinders learning and suggests that reforming gun laws might be a more effective solution.
A strike by approximately 33,000 Boeing machinists has halted production of key aircraft models, including the 737 Max, following the rejection of a contract offer. While commercial flights are not immediately affected, prolonged disruption could lead to significant financial losses for the company.
Katherine Sticklin, a 28-year-old youth counselor at A Kid's Place in Tampa Bay, was arrested for allegedly performing sexual acts on a minor in her care. The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office reported that Sticklin pressured the child into sexual activity, using social media to send explicit images and continuing her advances even after being blocked. She faces serious charges, including lewd or lascivious touching and unlawful sexual activity with a minor.