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Pinellas and Clearwater law enforcement officials say they are intensifying efforts to stop teen takeover events after a 17-year-old was shot during a gathering at Clearwater Beach on May 31. Authorities have arrested a 16-year-old suspect and plan to use increased enforcement and new social media monitoring tools to identify and prevent future incidents.
A Hillsborough County Sheriff's deputy was arrested May 30 on DUI-related charges following a traffic stop in Citrus Park, according to officials.
Advocacy groups say they plan to sue the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the National Marine Fisheries Service, alleging violations of the Endangered Species Act tied to the Port Everglades Inlet Sand Bypass Project.
A 19-year-old bicyclist died after a hit-and-run crash near West Waters Avenue and North Albany Avenue on May 25, and Tampa Police are asking the public for help identifying a 2013-2016 Toyota RAV4 believed to be involved.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office made 36 DUI arrests and responded to multiple boating incidents during its Memorial Day weekend safety operation conducted with local law enforcement partners.
Tampa Bay remains under Phase III water restrictions as drought conditions persist across the region and water violations continue to rise. City officials said more than 430 customers have received citations since the order took effect in December 2025
Florida officials announced registration is open for the 2026 Florida Python Challenge, which encourages the public to help remove invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades.
Detectives say a sophisticated retail theft ring operating across four states led to 14 arrests and the seizure of millions in stolen goods during “Operation D-Fence.”
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has launched a new AI-enhanced 911 platform designed to improve emergency response times, dispatcher awareness and communication with deputies through real-time video sharing and instant call transcription.
Plant City residents voiced frustration and demanded stronger domestic violence prevention efforts during a Plant City commission meeting following multiple recent shootings, including a quadruple homicide involving a mother, grandmother and two young children.
Mayor Jane Castor’s 2026 State of the City Address highlighted major investments in infrastructure, housing, transportation, public safety and climate resilience, as she outlined Tampa’s continued growth strategy focused on strengthening the city’s foundation for the future.
Lovebugs are returning across the Tampa Bay area as temperatures rise. Experts say the insects are harmless but can become a nuisance, especially for drivers dealing with buildup on vehicles during peak mating season.
The National Weather Service has designated May 3 through May 9 as Hurricane Preparedness Week, encouraging residents to prepare ahead of the June 1 start of hurricane season. Officials urge households to review evacuation plans, build emergency kits and stay informed on storm alerts to reduce risks and improve safety.
Sheriff Chad Chronister held a press conference providing a timeline of the investigation involving two University of South Florida students, outlining key developments from the initial missing person reports through forensic findings and ongoing investigative efforts.
Sea turtle nesting season has begun and will continue through October 31, marking a critical period for adult turtles to lay their eggs. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium has launched its annual nesting patrol and is urging residents and visitors to follow guidelines to help protect the species.
The Tampa Bay Ferry will link Tampa and St. Petersburg with two vessels operating daily, seven days a week.
Residents will have the opportunity to safely dispose of unused or expired medications April 25 during the 30th annual National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.
The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is investigating the disappearance of two University of South Florida doctoral students last seen April 16 in Tampa. The Tampa Bay Observer is continuing to follow the case and will provide updates as new information becomes available.
