Latest News in Tampa Bay, FL

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Rabid bat found in toy bag, Polk County Sheriff's Office says

A rabid bat was discovered in a toy bag at a home in Lakeland, Florida, prompting a response from Polk County Sheriff's Office Animal Control Officers who initiated a rabies investigation. The incident, which took place last week, raises public health concerns regarding wildlife and rabies exposure in the community.

Pinellas County applies for grant to replace the Dunedin Causeway Bridge

Pinellas County has applied for a grant to replace the aging Dunedin Causeway Bridge, originally constructed in 1963. The initiative aims to enhance infrastructure and improve transportation access between Dunedin and Honeymoon Island. This critical project reflects the county's commitment to maintaining safe and effective transit routes for residents and visitors alike.

Tampa Police Release Footage From Movie Theater Disturbance

Tampa Police are actively seeking to identify a woman who discharged a firearm into the air during a disturbance at an AMC parking lot on November 30, 2024. Fortunately, no injuries resulted from the gunfire, but three individuals sustained minor injuries during the chaos. This incident highlights growing concerns about public safety in local entertainment venues.

The narrow shoulders on Florida’s I-4 are getting even slimmer

Narrow shoulders along Florida's I-4 are becoming increasingly dangerous as a $2.5 billion improvement project is set to begin, aiming to widen 14 miles of the congested interstate. Roadside assistance workers, like Vernon Stewart, express concern over the perilous conditions that already exist due to limited shoulder space and heavy traffic.

Florida Package Thieves Face Stiffer Penalties This Holiday Season

Florida is tightening penalties for package thieves this holiday season, aiming to deter crimes that often occur during the busy shopping period. As online shopping peaks, the legislation seeks to protect consumers from opportunistic thefts that can lead to significant financial losses.

Tampa Bay Rays continue blaming county for ‘falling short’ as the new stadium saga continues

The Tampa Bay Rays have responded to Pinellas County commissioners, indicating their discontent with the county's handling of stadium negotiations. The team was given a deadline of December 1 to decide on plans for a new ballpark, which has been a contentious issue for the franchise. The ongoing saga highlights the complexities of sports infrastructure development in the region.

How might Florida’s higher education vision play in Trump’s plans?

Florida's higher education model is under scrutiny as it aligns with Donald Trump's administration's educational policies. The article highlights the influential role of New College of Florida and Christopher Rufo's initiatives, exploring the potential national implications of these changes.

Florida county issues nearly $600K in fines from school zone speeding cameras in less than 3 weeks

Manatee County, Florida, has issued nearly $600,000 in fines from speeding tickets generated by newly installed school zone cameras in less than three weeks. The program, aimed at enhancing child safety, began on November 1, following an extended warning period that started with the school year. Public safety officials stress the importance of adhering to speed limits in school zones to protect children.

Biden pardons his son Hunter despite previous pledges not to

President Joe Biden has granted a pardon to his son Hunter, alleviating potential prison time for federal gun and tax convictions. This decision reverses Biden's earlier commitments not to use presidential powers for family benefit and comes just weeks before Hunter's sentencing.

VIDEO: TPD working to identify woman that fired gun during fight in AMC parking lot

Tampa police are on the hunt for a woman who fired a gun during a violent altercation in the AMC Highlands 20 parking lot. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about public safety and gun violence in the area. Authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward.

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