An hours-long standoff in Bradenton's Braden Castle Park neighborhood ended peacefully after negotiators secured a surrender. The suspect faces multiple charges as the case proceeds.

A Fire Weather Watch covered Pinellas County on Feb. 23 as forecasters warned low humidity and gusty winds could make fires spread fast. Local agencies urged no outdoor burning.

Clear and chilly Tuesday in Tampa with a high near 61°F. Morning rip-current risk at area beaches; shelters are open for anyone who needs warmth.

Florida's public counsel says FPL customers are already paying into a multiyear settlement and that his office is appealing the commission's approval.

Clearwater’s Sea‑Blues festival returns to Coachman Park Feb. 28–March 1 with national blues acts, seafood vendors and free admission. Captain’s Krewe VIP packages are available.

A 22-year-old was arrested after early-morning vehicle burglaries on Grove Street; police say officers recovered a handgun and charged him with armed burglary.

A Lake Mary man accused of a January I‑4 getaway was arrested weeks later when deputies recognized his car on the same stretch of highway.

Cru Hospitality will open Smith's Provisions and The Back Bar at Sparkman Wharf this March, adding quick-service burgers and a cocktail/wine bar to the Channelside waterfront.

A traffic stop on I‑4 near Davenport led to felony charges and a jail scuffle after deputies measured illegally dark front-window tint. The driver remains jailed in Polk County.

Polk County deputies say a Mulberry man who reported a drive‑by was actually shot by himself; he was arrested and faces a false‑report felony plus drug charges.

Tampa Fire Rescue says crews are on scene at the Olive Garden on East Busch Boulevard; eastbound lanes near 26th–30th streets are down to one lane.

Burger Vault opened on North 56th Street with halal beef, homemade sauces and plant‑based options after sampling more than 20 farms. The shop opens daily at 11 a.m.

Tampa Bay closed 2025 with positive office absorption and Westshore driving leasing, tightening Class‑A availability and nudging up rents in core submarkets.