Your trusted source for local Tampa Bay, FL news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The University of Florida abruptly canceled support for an Israel-Palestine symposium, leading to concerns about academic freedom and freedom of speech. Organizers claimed they had received prior approval and funding, raising questions about the university's decision and its motivations, as the event featured pro-Palestinian speakers. The symposium proceeded at a nearby church and via Zoom despite the cancellation.
A 17-year-old suspect, Jaylen Dewayne Edgar, has been charged with two counts of second-degree murder following a Halloween shooting in downtown Orlando that left two men dead and several others injured. State Attorney Andrew Bain announced plans to present evidence to a grand jury to potentially upgrade the charges to first-degree murder. The incident, which occurred during a crowded celebration, has raised significant concerns regarding public safety in the community.
A couple in Town N' Country, Florida, faced a disheartening situation when their flood insurance claim was denied, as their living room was classified as a “basement” not covered by their policy. After twelve years of paying for flood insurance, Jaime Giangrande-Holcom and her husband are now navigating the complexities of insurance claims in the wake of Hurricane Helene. This incident highlights the challenges homeowners can face with flood insurance policies.
A baby was tragically found dead inside a vehicle at a Florida middle school, where deputies reported that the infant was supposed to be dropped off at daycare. This incident raises significant concerns regarding child safety and the responsibility of caregivers. The investigation is ongoing, as the Sumter County Sheriff's Office seeks to determine the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking incident.
This week in Tampa Bay features a variety of engaging events, including Cyndi Lauper's farewell tour and the free Pops in the Park concert series. Local residents can enjoy diverse cultural activities, highlighting music and entertainment options throughout the region.
Soccer star Lionel Messi is set to play in Tampa, generating excitement among local fans and sports enthusiasts. This announcement signifies Messi's impact on Major League Soccer and the growing popularity of the league in the United States.
Hillsborough County voters face a significant decision on Election Day regarding a proposed property tax increase aimed at boosting teacher salaries. School district leaders have actively campaigned to persuade the community to support this referendum, emphasizing its importance for local education.
Body cam footage has been released by police to shed light on two separate incidents that occurred during the highly watched Florida-Georgia football game. This release aims to provide more context to the viral altercations that took place at the event, reflecting on issues of public safety and law enforcement responses in high-stakes situations.
A growing system in the Caribbean is expected to develop into Tropical Storm Rafael and could intensify into a hurricane as it moves towards the Gulf of Mexico. The National Hurricane Center indicates that this system may bring significant rainfall and wind to Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and parts of Cuba before potentially impacting the U.S. Gulf Coast later in the week.
Students and staff at Anna Maria Elementary School have returned home after being displaced for two months due to Hurricane Helene. The school community was welcomed back with open arms, emphasizing the resilience and recovery efforts following the natural disaster.