A Puerto Rico woman was sentenced to five months in federal prison after threatening flight attendants on a Tampa flight and forcing the plane back to the gate.

A 74‑year‑old Crystal River passenger died after a pickup driver fled the scene of a five‑car crash on US‑41; troopers are asking the public for tips.

Two Clearwater women face felony animal‑cruelty charges after deputies say a 3‑pound dog named Princess was thrown from a moving SUV and seriously injured.

A 79-year-old Winter Haven woman was killed Friday in a two-vehicle crash at Winter Lake Road and Camellia Drive. Deputies say the other driver is in critical condition and an investigation is underway.

A 24-year-old Bushnell man died after his car struck a tree at a rural Sumter County intersection early Feb. 28. Troopers say the Hyundai Elantra ran through the intersection; the crash is under investigation.

PGIM and Greystar plan Birchway Bayside, a 376‑unit community at 5771 Roosevelt Boulevard in Clearwater, with 151 affordable homes and a 2026 start.

A City Council committee cleared ballot language to ask St. Pete voters about a 52,000‑sq‑ft, $30M expansion of the city’s maritime and defense tech hub.

The Rays have refashioned Tropicana Field’s premium spaces into lounges, a speakeasy, candy room and upgraded suites ahead of their April 6 home opener. Season memberships are limited.

Aqua Tequila's Parrish outpost opened Friday in Creekside Commons, bringing margaritas, street tacos and a tequila-forward menu to Manatee County.

ZooTampa closed a $33 million campaign to finish Florida Waters and the Straz Family Manatee Rescue, adding new habitats and expanded rescue capacity this spring.

Volta Wine + Market will begin buildout at 400 Central in March, bringing a 2,000‑sq‑ft wine shop, market and tasting bar to downtown St. Pete.

Clear and mild today with a high near 78°F. Patchy fog Friday morning and showers with thunderstorms expected Friday night into Saturday.

The sheriff’s office says reported crime fell 19.7% in 2025, with large drops in vehicle theft, robbery and violent crime. Local measures and staffing shifts are cited as possible factors.