A three-year-old male panther (UCFP501) was found dead March 25 on US-27 in Glades County after an apparent vehicle strike, wildlife officials confirmed.

Gin Khao, a Polk County Thai food truck, has filed plans to open its first brick-and-mortar at 750 W Main Street in Bartow. The owner confirmed the move.

A North Port High School teacher was arrested March 26 after police say he engaged in sexual activity with a minor. The district and police say the investigation is ongoing.

Neighbors in Hudson say years of crime and a recent e‑bike battery fire at a Cadillac Avenue home prompted Pasco County code action and a hearing next month.

A Tampa driver allegedly reached 132 mph on I‑275, crashed into another car and seriously injured its driver. Troopers say she kicked and bit officers during the arrest.

Three people were arrested after police say nearly 3,000 items were taken from a CVS on 54th Avenue South, with recovered merchandise valued at about $2,979.15.

Polk County and Bartow police have identified a 56-year-old man found outside an apartment complex; detectives are processing the scene and seeking tips.

The Bricks' building on E. 7th Ave. sold to a buyer tied to Ybor's Gasworx project; owners promise upgrades and a return to fuller service.

FDOT says the 1960s northbound span of the Howard Frankland Bridge has been demolished while crews finish express lanes, a shared‑use path and final touches ahead of a summer 2026 wrap.

Sunny and warm today with a high near 86°F. Cooler, breezier conditions and a few showers arrive Saturday night.

Hillsborough commissioners denied a proposal for what neighbors called “hundreds” of homes in Keystone‑Odessa after a packed public hearing. Residents cited traffic, schools and wetlands.

Device forensics led investigators to add 40 counts to a Venice man’s case, bringing the total to 42 felony charges in Sarasota County.

Weezer will headline Benchmark International Arena on Oct. 14, 2026 with The Shins and Silversun Pickups. Presales start March 31 and the public on‑sale is April 3.