Your trusted source for local Tampa Bay, FL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Sarasota's Celery Fields, a prime bird-watching destination attracting over 100,000 visitors annually, is at the center of community debate due to plans for a redevelopment project involving 170 homes. Local organizations, particularly the Audubon Society, are raising concerns that such development could jeopardize the ecological integrity and appeal of this significant natural area.
Tampa is set to unveil its newest Veterans Plaza today, marking a significant step towards establishing a memorial in each of the city's four Council districts. This dedication honors US military members and their families, reflecting the city's commitment to recognizing their service.
The Tampa Police Department is conducting investigations into two unrelated deaths discovered in the waters near the Courtney Campbell Causeway. The first body, recovered on November 17, 2024, is that of a deceased black male believed to be in his mid-teens, with no apparent signs of trauma. Authorities are working to identify the individuals involved and notify their next of kin.
A Hillsborough County deputy fatally shot a man who brandished a gun during a traffic stop in Tampa on Saturday night. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the incident, which occurred after the deputy pulled over the man for an obscured license tag. Sheriff Chad Chronister emphasized the deputy's duty to protect the community when faced with a deadly threat.
An employee of Home Plate on the Trail Restaurant in Dunedin was arrested for allegedly stealing over $57,000 since 2021 by canceling transactions and pocketing the cash. The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office reported the incident following complaints from the restaurant's owners. The case underscores significant issues of employee theft and its impact on local businesses.
A man was arrested at a Pinellas Park Circle K for allegedly using his phone to film another man in a bathroom stall. This incident raises concerns about privacy rights and public safety, highlighting ongoing issues related to surveillance and harassment in public spaces.
Tropical Storm Sara has weakened into a tropical depression after making landfall near Belize, with forecasters predicting rapid dissipation over the Yucatan Peninsula. Leftover moisture from the storm is expected to enhance rainfall along the U.S. Gulf Coast, particularly affecting areas from Louisiana to the Florida Panhandle early next week.
The Sacred Heart Festival in Pinellas Park was abruptly cut short due to disruptions caused by juveniles, according to local police. Typically a family-friendly event, the festival's early conclusion highlights concerns about safety and community dynamics.
Oldsmar has entered an interlocal agreement with Pinellas County to streamline debris removal and home inspections following hurricanes Helene and Milton. This collaboration aims to save costs for the city while ensuring compliance with federal regulations and enhancing resilience against future natural disasters.
A 19-year-old bicyclist from Guatemala was tragically killed in a hit-and-run accident on SR-674 in Ruskin, as reported by the Florida Highway Patrol. The authorities are currently searching for the driver involved in the incident, highlighting a growing concern over road safety for cyclists in the region.