Attorneys for Zephen Xaver are asking an appeals court to overturn his death sentence for the 2019 Sebring SunTrust Bank killings that claimed five lives. The appeal argues that statements Xaver made to police should not have been shown to jurors because his Miranda rights were allegedly violated. Defense attorneys also say the trial should have been moved out of Highlands County due to widespread community impact. A jury ultimately recommended the death penalty by a 9–3 vote, and Xaver was sentenced to death in December 2024.
The Sebring City Council has approved a $37,000 feasibility study to explore redeveloping the Max Long Recreational Complex into a sports tourism destination. The expanded study by Synergy Sports will evaluate renovation costs, funding options, and economic impact, while still supporting local sports. Council members acknowledged the project could cost between $8 and $10 million but agreed the study is a key step toward long-term improvements.
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has released new details about a Central Florida murder-suicide that followed an argument over an NFL game. Investigators say a dispute between a husband and wife escalated inside their Lakeland-area home, prompting the woman to tell her son to call 911 before a gunshot was heard. Deputies later found the woman dead, her teenage daughter critically injured, and the suspect fled before taking his own life in Lake Wales. Authorities say the incident has left multiple children traumatized and are urging anyone in crisis to seek help through the 988 Lifeline.
South Florida State College and the SFSC Foundation are exploring options to address ongoing financial losses at the restaurant inside The Hotel Jacaranda. During a recent Foundation board meeting, SFSC President Fred Hawkins said the restaurant is losing money and leaders are reviewing possible changes, including adjustments to operations or future use. College officials say increased competition has made the restaurant especially challenging to sustain. Any proposed solutions will be brought back to the Foundation board for discussion.