News Update for 10/15/20

One man is dead and four Polk County Sheriff’s deputies are on administrative leave following an incident last night in Frostproof. Lawmen were called to the home on Freedom Drive shortly before 7:PM on reports of a domestic disturbance.
There they encountered 28-year-old Yoel Arnaldo Mejia Santel. Crisis intervention officers reportedly talked with Santel, who ultimately charged deputies with a machete. He was shot and died at the scene.
A number of agencies have been called in to sort out exactly what happened.

Units from Lake Placid and Sun n Lakes were called to extinguish a brush fire in the fields south of Lake Placid Town Hall yesterday just before noon.
The Florida Forest Service joined up in putting out the four acre blaze. Authorities have determined equipment in the field had some sort of electrical malfunction.
The only structure in danger was a water pump house – which was not damaged. No injuries were reported.

Officials at South Florida State College say they have joined forces with the Florida Department of Education for a new workforce education initiative. It’s aimed at raising awareness of their career and technical education classes.
Dubbed “Get There,” it’s a campaign offering career and technical education programs. Trades to be offered will include manufacturing, automotive, construction, health and public safety services among others.

Bookworm alert. The Highlands County Library system soon will open their doors again. Schedules relaxed now show the facilities in Avon Park, Sebring and Lake Placid will be open Tuesday thru Thursdays from 9:30 until 5:30 and Fridays from 9:30 until 1:00.
They’ll also have Saturday hours but will be closed Sundays and Mondays. The new schedule starts next Tuesday.

Polk County sheriff’s officials are looking for a vehicle in connection with a hit and run accident. According to reports, 25-year-old John White was riding his bicycle on Highway 630 West in the Frostproof area Monday night,and was sideswiped by what authorities believe was a pickup or SUV.
They say the vehicle should have right side damage and may be missing a rear view mirror. The Lake Wales man remains in critical condition at Lakeland Regional.

Prosecutors are seeking the death penalty for a 26-year-old Frostproof man charged with three counts of first-degree murder in the fatal shootings of three friends who had gathered at a Polk County lake for some late night fishing.
The State Attorney’s Office has filed their intent to seek the death penalty for Tony “T.J.” Wiggins Jr. in Polk County circuit court.
He’s accused of the July slaying of Brandon Rollins, Damion Tillman and Keven Springfield.
Wiggins is being held without bond.