A single vehicle crash on Sparta road on Sunday afternoon claimed the life of an 80-year-old Sebring man. The Florida Highway Patrol reports that the man was driving a sedan east on Sparta road just west of the intersection of Charlotte drive around 3:08 PM. After leaving the roadway, the sedan entered the western grass shoulder, overturned, and the sole occupant was ejected. According to reports the driver was not wearing a seatbelt. The crash remains under investigation.
A man is recovering after he was shot by deputies in Orange County. The sheriff’s office yesterday identified the man as 33-year-old Stuart Anthony Hyatt. He was shot a week ago at a gas station. Deputies say he crashed his car into another car, punched someone, broke the window of a truck, tried to carjack it and crashed into some gas pumps. Then, Hyatt allegedly approached deputies while holding a metal rod, refused orders to drop it, was Tased and then shot by two deputies when the Taser was ineffective. The FDLE is investigating, and the deputies who shot him are on paid administrative leave during the hearing.
A man is accused of trying to kill a deputy in Hillsborough County. The sheriff’s office announced yesterday that William Lewis, Jr. is charged with attempted murder of a law enforcement officer. Lewis allegedly hit a deputy with his car two weeks ago. Lewis’ mom was arrested yesterday for allegedly helping her son after he hit the deputy and fled the scene. She’s charged with being an accessory after the fact. Sheriff Chad Chronister says the mother’s involvement is deeply troubling. He also says the deputy who was hurt in the incident continues to work hard towards a full recovery.
First Lady Casey DeSantis says it’s easier than ever for law enforcement officers to get the help they need. DeSantis addressed the Florida Sheriffs Association in Orlando yesterday. She says those who need help and aren’t sure where to start can call just one phone number for Hope Florida. DeSantis adds Hope Florida is a simple way for law enforcement to ensure those who need help can be connected quickly to those who are ready to offer assistance.
The search is on for a 10-year-old Sebring boy who ran away from his home late last night on South Eucalyptus Street. Logan Young went out a window at his home about 10:32PM and was observed on camera walking towards Lakeview Drive. Logan is approximately 70 lbs and was last seen wearing a tan colored shirt, unknown colored shorts, light up shoes, and carrying a Minecraft backpack. As of 7:00AM this morning, local authorities are still searching for Logan. Anyone who knows the whereabouts of Logan is asked to contact Sgt. Stephen Willimas at 863-471-5108.
According to data from the U.S. Department of Agriculture, citrus growers in Florida are finally starting to see some improvement to the industry after the damage Hurricane Ian caused in 2022. The USDA’s final citrus forecast report for the 2023-2024 growing season shows production is up more than 11% from the previous season as the industry recovers from historic lows caused by Ian. One Florida citrus grower says the last two years have been tough for the entire citrus industry in Florida but based on the latest USDA citrus forecast report, that stress for growers appears to be fading.
A man is dead after a meetup to sell headphones turned violent in Seminole County. Sanford Police announced yesterday that Brandon Leo was shot to death Saturday night outside a home on West Third Street. The 22-year-old was found dead in a truck that was submerged in a retention pond. Investigators believe Leo drove to the home to sell a pair of headphones, and during the sale, he tried reversing out of the driveway while shots were fired by two people. No arrests have been announced.
Magic fans can pay their respects to the man who helped bring the NBA to Orlando. Pat Williams’ family announced yesterday his celebration of life will be open to the public. It’s set for Friday at 3:00 at First Baptist Orlando on South John Young Parkway. The service will also be livestreamed. Williams died Wednesday at the age of 84.