Comcast says Epic Universe helped theme-park revenue jump 24.2% in Q1 2026, lifting EBITDA and boosting Orlando’s tourism economy. The park’s opening is already reshaping local demand.

Markeith Loyd asked judges to overturn his death sentence; a judge set an evidentiary hearing for May 7, 2026 when his lawyers will press competency and trial claims.

Two Tampa-area teens were arrested April 22 in the Dec. 25 Deltona shooting that killed 17-year-old Brenden Watkins, authorities say.

A fiber‑optic installation in Longwood damaged a water main and other utilities, prompting stop‑work orders and a city plan to test valves systemwide.

Thomas Haugh is returning to Florida for his senior season, passing on a likely first‑round draft spot and keeping the Gators’ title core intact. The decision reshapes NIL, roster plans and early 2026‑27 title odds.

A Frontier flight from Orlando to Houston turned back to MCO on Apr. 21 after pilots reported a cracked cockpit windshield. Passengers landed safely and were rebooked.

A 28-year-old Massachusetts man was arrested in Osceola County after traveling to meet someone he believed was 14; he faces multiple felony charges and investigators say the probe is ongoing.

Jerome Lloyd Anderson pleaded no contest and was sentenced to three consecutive life terms for a July 12, 2023 Daytona Beach shooting that killed three men.

A gopher tortoise in DeLand was found with spray‑foam insulation on its head and neck; volunteers cleaned and released it while FWC investigates.

UCF is exploring more than 60 acres along Alafaya Trail for a mixed‑use project that could add thousands of student beds, retail and a hotel near campus.

A tire blowout on I‑4 near the Gaylord Palms exit early Sunday overturned an SUV; one passenger who was ejected was struck and later died.

State necropsies and inspection records show more than 31 wild sloths died after being imported to Sloth World in Orlando. Conservation groups and regulators say the deaths raise urgent welfare and licensing questions.

Team Market Group revealed Eastwood, a live‑fire restaurant planned for 1024 N. Mills Ave in Mills 50. Early images show meats over open flames; no opening date yet.