Deputies searched West Elementary in Arcadia after an alleged shooter report; the sheriff's office later said the call was a hoax and CID is investigating.

A woman is in critical condition after a hit-and-run on Gulf Boulevard in St. Pete Beach; deputies later arrested a 43-year-old after locating a 2019 Escalade.

Manatee County deputies freed an alligator tangled in a soccer net at Greyhawk Landing in Bradenton; photos from the sheriff's office show the rescue.

Troopers say a speeding driver ran a red light with seven juveniles aboard — two were found in the trunk with an open container. The driver now faces DUI and culpable‑negligence charges.

Applebee’s corporate will acquire a 57-unit Tampa franchisee after a Chapter 11 filing that lists roughly $22 million in liabilities and multiple local closures.

Hillsborough detectives say three people were arrested after roughly $75,000 in high-end liquor was recovered from a Tampa distributor. Charges include grand theft and dealing in stolen property.

A morning fire at a Citgo on West Busch Boulevard closed lanes and slowed traffic; firefighters reported no injuries and investigators are on scene.

City leaders will consider deleting a code exemption that lets builders pay instead of installing sidewalks. Advocates say the change could help stitch together thousands of miles of missing sidewalks while some neighbors push back.

Body-cam footage shows Joseph Davis, wanted for years, arrested in St. Petersburg after living under a fake name and a five‑year relationship. He faces theft and stalking charges and an Oregon warrant.

Tom Brady says he asked the NFL about returning while owning a Raiders stake. League rules and salary‑cap math make a comeback complicated.

USF has hired veteran coach Chris Mack to lead the Bulls, bringing a history of 20‑win seasons and an Elite Eight run. The move follows Bryan Hodgson's departure to Providence.

Investigators say the woman found in a trunk in St. Petersburg in 1969 has been identified as Sylvia June Atherton, but the killer remains unknown and tips are wanted.

A Pinellas Park UPS worker was arrested after authorities say he pawned 32 cellphones taken from deliveries. The arrest affidavit lists dozens of low‑payout transactions stretching from 2024 to 2025.