A Manatee County probe uncovered a statewide elder‑fraud network accused of taking more than $3.5M from seniors; arrests, counterfeit seizures and a federal sentence followed.

A 61-year-old Tampa man died after his Harley crashed into a tree while taking the Waters Avenue exit from SR‑589, troopers say. Investigators are probing the single-vehicle wreck.

U.S. aircraft struck Iranian missile and drone sites after a reported drone hit the Singapore‑flagged Ever Lovely in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting an IMO pause and putting Tampa‑based CENTCOM at the center of the response.

Hernando County officials warned that callers are spoofing the sheriff's office and demanding money to clear fake jury-duty bench warrants.

A New River resident admitted to submitting 14 false payroll returns that sought $7.7M in pandemic tax credits, federal prosecutors say.

Hernando County Fire Rescue says crews are battling a brush fire near Lomita Wren and Mountain Bluebird. Smoke may reduce visibility and drivers should avoid the area.

A man accused of robbing a Bradenton Wells Fargo was arrested in Sarasota; deputies say the cash was recovered and the suspect is jailed.

A 24‑story, mixed‑use tower at 275 5th Street South is moving from site testing to construction after developers closed financing. The building will add roughly 370 apartments and street-level retail.

After nearly two years of hurricane repairs, the Clearwater Beach Library & Recreation Center at 69 Bay Esplanade has reopened with pool, gym and a waterfront event room. A wedding expo is set for June 28.

DEAMiami says Homeland Security Task Force partners were present as the Coast Guard offloaded 3,522 kilograms of cocaine at Port Everglades; multiple arrests were reported. Officials have not yet released names or charges.

FWC recovered a two‑year‑old panther (UCFP506) after a suspected vehicle strike on SR 29 in Collier County. The agency and local outlets urge motorists to slow down.

Hot, muggy Saturday with highs near 96°F and scattered afternoon storms. Heat index could hit about 105°F—plan outdoor time accordingly.

DEA chemists in Miami say fentanyl and carfentanil have reappeared in seized samples, including a kilo that tested about 16% fentanyl. Officials warn tiny amounts can be deadly.