One person is dead and four others were injured after a three-vehicle crash Friday night in Highlands County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Troopers say a 19-year-old man from St. Cloud attempted a left turn on State Road 70 near County Road 721, pulling into the path of a 21-year-old Moore Haven man traveling westbound. A third driver, an 18-year-old man from Okeechobee, then struck the second vehicle during the collision. The 18-year-old driver was critically injured and later pronounced dead at an area hospital. The investigation remains ongoing, and names have not been released.
The Sun ‘N Lake Improvement District has filed a lawsuit against the Highlands County Property Appraiser, seeking to have dozens of district-owned parcels classified as tax-exempt because they are used for public and governmental purposes. The lawsuit was filed in November 2025 after more than a year of discussions failed to resolve the issue. District officials say the disagreement has led to nearly one million dollars in unpaid taxes and the loss of hundreds of parcels through foreclosure. A judge is expected to issue a ruling this coming March.
Highlands Hammock State Park is celebrating Florida history, nature, and the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps on February 14th during its 39th Annual CCC Festival, running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. In honor of Presidents’ Day, Highlands Hammock is also offering free admission from February 13th through February 16th. Festival highlights include live music, keynote speaker and acclaimed nature photographer Clyde Butcher, historical demonstrations, wildlife exhibits, an antique car show, and hands-on activities for kids. Most events are free and open to the public.
A 51-year-old Plant City man was arrested in Fort Meade after deputies say he fired a gun into a crowd, claiming he was trying to “make fireworks.” According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a large gathering at Seminole Avenue South and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street Southwest, where Christopher Oniel Smith allegedly fired a handgun while standing just feet from a patrol vehicle. Smith, who was already on felony probation for attempted first-degree murder, was taken into custody and now faces multiple firearm-related charges.