BREAKING NEWS
Nation’s best Naval Sea Cadet Corps in Windermere faces new challenge
Read full article: Nation’s best Naval Sea Cadet Corps in Windermere faces new challengeA group of young cadets in Windermere is making national headlines after being named the top U.S. Naval Sea Cadet Corps unit in the country, but the recognition comes as the not-for-profit program faces a new challenge: outgrowing its current home.
‘A lot larger footprint:’ Mount Dora fire station to undergo $6M upgrade
Read full article: ‘A lot larger footprint:’ Mount Dora fire station to undergo $6M upgradeMount Dora Fire Chief, Joseph Hightower, said the renovation of Fire Station 34 in Mount Dora and the addition of a 4800 square foot administration building is expected to cost somewhere between 5 and 6 million dollars.
DeSantis signs off on 12 more Florida laws. Here’s what each one changes
Read full article: DeSantis signs off on 12 more Florida laws. Here’s what each one changesOn Friday, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed off on 12 more state laws, adding to the growing list of new legislation this year.
12 Florida bills sent to DeSantis’ desk. Here’s what happens if he signs them
Read full article: 12 Florida bills sent to DeSantis’ desk. Here’s what happens if he signs themThese bills cover subjects like farm products, capital felonies, and even new designations for several roadways across the state — including one for President Donald Trump.
New documents in case against former Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez released
Read full article: New documents in case against former Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez releasedNews 6 has obtained newly released documents that show Osceola County deputies raided an alleged casino months before the former sheriff was arrested.
Co-defendant of suspended Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez bonds out of jail
Read full article: Co-defendant of suspended Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez bonds out of jailA co-defendant in the racketeering case involving suspended Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez was arrested late Tuesday. He has now bonded out of the Lake County jail.
Only on News 6: 1-on-1 with Osceola County’s new sheriff Chris Blackmon
Read full article: Only on News 6: 1-on-1 with Osceola County’s new sheriff Chris BlackmonNew Osceola County Sheriff Chris Blackmon gave News 6 Community Correspondent Laverne McGee an exclusive interview today on how he is going to deal with the crisis unfolding in the office.
Court hearing for Former Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez canceled
Read full article: Court hearing for Former Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez canceledFormer Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez was scheduled to have a motion hearing on Wednesday, according to the Lake County clerk of courts website. But that hearing is now canceled.
‘Going to get worse:’ Tavares residents concerned over proposed mixed-use development
Read full article: ‘Going to get worse:’ Tavares residents concerned over proposed mixed-use developmentPeople living in Tavares say they're concerned about a drastic change to the area after learning about the proposal of a large development south of Lake Dora.
‘Everybody’s moving to Central Florida:’ Growing Eustis plans police force expansion
Read full article: ‘Everybody’s moving to Central Florida:’ Growing Eustis plans police force expansionThe Eustis Police Department plans to seek federal funding to add more officers to its ranks as the city experiences significant population growth.
Undocumented migrant jailed for life after raping, trafficking child in Florida
Read full article: Undocumented migrant jailed for life after raping, trafficking child in FloridaAn undocumented immigrant received a life sentence last week after he coerced a child into prostitution and raped her, state officials announced on Tuesday.
What’s next for Lake County’s hurricane-damaged Britt Road?
Read full article: What’s next for Lake County’s hurricane-damaged Britt Road?Lake County officials have reached a purchase agreement for land needed to repair Britt Road, a crucial thoroughfare that has remained closed since Hurricane Milton struck in October 2024.
Mixed-use development to bring apartments, 12K square feet of commercial space to downtown Tavares
Read full article: Mixed-use development to bring apartments, 12K square feet of commercial space to downtown TavaresNew mixed-use development plans are set to transform downtown Tavares, as city officials announce potential groundbreaking this summer for an apartment complex featuring ground-floor retail space.
Lake County holds public listening sessions on growth, development. Here’s when
Read full article: Lake County holds public listening sessions on growth, development. Here’s when“Our goal is really to focus on growth management and protecting Lake County’s character, while still having a vibrant and thriving economy,” Commissioner Leslie Campione said.
‘Trying to save my leg:’ Tavares man recounts contracting rare bacterial infection
Read full article: ‘Trying to save my leg:’ Tavares man recounts contracting rare bacterial infectionFresh off his release from the hospital, Bobby Henderson stood by the boat ramp where he contracted a rare bacterial infection, cracking jokes about the most harrowing two weeks of his life.
These homes are built to withstand Category 5 hurricane winds. Now, they’re coming to Central Florida
Read full article: These homes are built to withstand Category 5 hurricane winds. Now, they’re coming to Central FloridaImagine a home that can withstand 175 mph sustained winds, heavy rain, flooding and power outages while you and your family stay safe inside. Well, this isn’t just a dream anymore.
Woman accused in deadly Lake County deputy ambush is again found incompetent to proceed
Read full article: Woman accused in deadly Lake County deputy ambush is again found incompetent to proceedJulie Sulpizio, the woman accused of luring Lake County deputies into an ambush that killed one and wounded two others, has been committed to Department of Children and Families after once again being found incompetent to proceed.
Deputy killed in Lake County ambush honored alongside surviving colleagues
Read full article: Deputy killed in Lake County ambush honored alongside surviving colleaguesNearly 10 months after a deadly ambush claimed the life of a Lake County sheriff’s deputy and injured two others, a national nonprofit has honored the fallen and surviving officers for their bravery.
Lifeguard shortage delays Eustis pool opening, city hopes to fill part-time roles
Read full article: Lifeguard shortage delays Eustis pool opening, city hopes to fill part-time rolesDirector Sam Brinson of Parks and Recreation for the City of Eustis said the pool was supposed to open on May 1, but said it was pushed back to June 2 as a result of a lifeguard shortage.
‘Concerning uptick’ in Tavares car break-ins results in 2 stolen guns, stolen checkbook
Read full article: ‘Concerning uptick’ in Tavares car break-ins results in 2 stolen guns, stolen checkbookAfter eight car break-ins resulted in the theft of two pistols and a checkbook, Tavares police are urging people to bring in their valuables and make sure their doors are locked.
Groveland hosts first Memorial Day ceremony at restored African American Cemetery
Read full article: Groveland hosts first Memorial Day ceremony at restored African American CemeteryMonths after celebrating the restoration of the Oak Tree Union Colored Cemetery of Taylorville, the city of Groveland honored veterans buried there during what was likely the first Memorial Day Ceremony held there in decades.
PHOTOS: Memorial Day events in Central Florida ‘respect and honor those who fell’
Read full article: PHOTOS: Memorial Day events in Central Florida ‘respect and honor those who fell’As a veteran, I made it my mission this Memorial Day to visit as many events and ceremonies tied to the holiday as I could.
These may be Florida’s 2 most popular cities, study shows. Here’s how they compare
Read full article: These may be Florida’s 2 most popular cities, study shows. Here’s how they compareOn Thursday, U.S. News & World Report issued its list of the top places where people are thinking about moving so far in 2025.
Son of Tavares councilmember arrested, accused of child sex crimes, records show
Read full article: Son of Tavares councilmember arrested, accused of child sex crimes, records showThe son of a Tavares councilmember is accused of possessing, sharing and creating child pornography among other such crimes, according to police.
Body-camera video released in Lake County ambush that left 1 deputy dead, 2 wounded
Read full article: Body-camera video released in Lake County ambush that left 1 deputy dead, 2 woundedBody-camera video was released from an ambush that left one Lake County sheriff’s deputy dead and two others wounded.
Forgotten roads: Groveland residents demand action after close calls, crashes
Read full article: Forgotten roads: Groveland residents demand action after close calls, crashesResidents living along Bay Lake Road, Empire Church Road, and Lake Erie Road in Groveland say their once-peaceful area has become a racetrack for reckless drivers and exotic cars.
Construction complete on new SR-44 bridge connecting Lake, Volusia counties
Read full article: Construction complete on new SR-44 bridge connecting Lake, Volusia countiesConstruction is now complete to replace the old drawbridge connecting Lake and Volusia counties above the St. Johns River near DeLand, according to the Florida Department of Transportation.
‘Harden our schools more:’ 1K locks being replaced at Lake County elementary schools
Read full article: ‘Harden our schools more:’ 1K locks being replaced at Lake County elementary schoolsLake County Schools will begin switching out locks on elementary school campuses in order to ensure student safety.
‘Growth is always going to happen:’ Groveland officials to vote on key infrastructure projects
Read full article: ‘Growth is always going to happen:’ Groveland officials to vote on key infrastructure projectsAs local leaders have been working to keep up with growth in Lake County, the city of Groveland is addressing some key infrastructure improvements.
‘Choice of Champions:’ Clermont offers unique landscape, commitment to sports tourism
Read full article: ‘Choice of Champions:’ Clermont offers unique landscape, commitment to sports tourismNews 6’s Lisa Bell takes a closer look at how this motto came about and how the city is capitalizing on athletics.
‘Blood kind of boil:’ SR-19 project brews trouble for Eustis businesses
Read full article: ‘Blood kind of boil:’ SR-19 project brews trouble for Eustis businessesBusiness owners feel there’s a lot of potential in downtown Eustis, but also said they feel like the economic development isn’t as strong as it could be.
Training, shields save Clermont police officers during ambush
Read full article: Training, shields save Clermont police officers during ambushNews 6 is Hitting the Road with Clermont’s newly-appointed interim Police Chief John Graczyk breaking down what he called “by far one of the most intense [police body camera] videos I’ve ever watched in my career.”
Man sentenced to 35 years in shooting death of girlfriend in Clermont driveway
Read full article: Man sentenced to 35 years in shooting death of girlfriend in Clermont drivewayA man who shot and killed his girlfriend in the driveway of her Clermont home in 2019 was sentenced to 35 years after accepting a plea deal last month.
Downtown Clermont parking challenges, FSU shooter faces judge, fixing stuck screen door
Read full article: Downtown Clermont parking challenges, FSU shooter faces judge, fixing stuck screen doorDowntown Clermont has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, evolving from a quiet area into a bustling hub for entrepreneurs and visitors alike.
From groves to gridlock: Clermont’s population boom comes with growing pains
Read full article: From groves to gridlock: Clermont’s population boom comes with growing painsOnce renowned for its sprawling orange groves, Clermont has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years. While the citrus trees have largely vanished, something else is flourishing — the city's population.
Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards in Clermont: From family roots to award-winning wines
Read full article: Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards in Clermont: From family roots to award-winning winesBut behind the stainless-steel tanks and the sprawling 127-acre vineyard lies something far more personal - a story rooted in legacy.
‘A safe place for my disabled son:’ Family of 6 appeals for help after Lake County fire destroys home
Read full article: ‘A safe place for my disabled son:’ Family of 6 appeals for help after Lake County fire destroys homeThis Mother’s Day, a local mother is trying to figure out where her family will live after a devastating blaze burned their home last week in Sorrento.
Leesburg woman killed in hit-and-run crash; FHP seeks driver who abandoned SUV
Read full article: Leesburg woman killed in hit-and-run crash; FHP seeks driver who abandoned SUVTroopers are calling on the public for information about a driver who allegedly abandoned an SUV after fatally rear-ending a motorcyclist with it in Lake County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
‘She was my everything:’ Investigation underway after Eustis woman found dead
Read full article: ‘She was my everything:’ Investigation underway after Eustis woman found deadLake County officials confirmed that 44-year-old Monica Islam’s body was found on May 2. Originally from Bangladesh, Monica Islam moved to Eustis in 2021 with her daughter and worked as a cashier in a local convenience store.
Fire hydrant testing in Mount Dora may cause temporary water discoloration, city says
Read full article: Fire hydrant testing in Mount Dora may cause temporary water discoloration, city saysDuring the testing, residents may notice brief periods of discolored or “brown water” coming from their faucets. The discoloration is a result of the hydrant testing process, but crews are actively flushing the system to improve water clarity.
This city has the worst student debt in Florida, study finds. Here’s how much
Read full article: This city has the worst student debt in Florida, study finds. Here’s how muchWalletHub has released its list of cities with the most student loan debt in the country, revealing which spot in Florida carries the worst debt statewide.
Lake County food pantry expands services with new facility
Read full article: Lake County food pantry expands services with new facilityA local food pantry is expanding with the hopes of serving even more people in Lake County. The Lake Cares Food Pantry celebrated its brand new 22,000-square-foot building on Monday morning.
Rainy day a welcome respite during brush fires in Marion County, officials say
Read full article: Rainy day a welcome respite during brush fires in Marion County, officials sayWidespread rain swept across Central Florida as the U.S. Forest Service and Florida Forest Service worked to contain ongoing brush fires in Marion County.
‘I’ve never seen a state so green burn so fast:’ Dry, drought-like conditions impact Florida farm
Read full article: ‘I’ve never seen a state so green burn so fast:’ Dry, drought-like conditions impact Florida farmCentral Florida is facing its worst drought in nearly a decade, with extreme conditions taking a toll on farms and communities across the region.
Florida Gov. DeSantis, first lady plan to bring ‘Hope Florida’ pilot program to school districts
Read full article: Florida Gov. DeSantis, first lady plan to bring ‘Hope Florida’ pilot program to school districtsFlorida Gov. Ron DeSantis and first lady Casey DeSantis announced a program to bring Hope Florida to school districts at an event at Fruitland Park Elementary School in Lake County Wednesday.
Mount Dora’s ‘Starry Night’ home gets fresh coat of paint, new symbol for autism awareness
Read full article: Mount Dora’s ‘Starry Night’ home gets fresh coat of paint, new symbol for autism awarenessThe family behind the ‘Starry Night’ home artwork is celebrating a major milestone — and a message that goes far beyond paint.
10-year-old Xavier Williams laid to rest in Connecticut; Tavares mother, her boyfriend face charges in boy’s death
Read full article: 10-year-old Xavier Williams laid to rest in Connecticut; Tavares mother, her boyfriend face charges in boy’s deathXavier Williams, the 10-year-old boy who died after being tortured and abused by his mother and her boyfriend in Tavares was laid to rest on Saturday in Connecticut.
Woman accused in deadly Lake County deputy ambush found competent to proceed, records show
Read full article: Woman accused in deadly Lake County deputy ambush found competent to proceed, records showJulie Sulpizio, the woman accused of luring Lake County deputies into an ambush which killed one and wounded two others, has been ordered back to jail after being found competent to proceed.
Leesburg Bikefest returns this weekend, and businesses are revving up
Read full article: Leesburg Bikefest returns this weekend, and businesses are revving upBusinesses in downtown Leesburg are preparing for a big weekend ahead of Bikefest 2025. The three-day festival kicks off on April 25 and runs through April 27.
‘We gotta go in there!’ Armed Clermont man slain by deputy after pulling gun on front door, video shows
Read full article: ‘We gotta go in there!’ Armed Clermont man slain by deputy after pulling gun on front door, video showsFollowing a deputy-involved shooting earlier this month that left a man dead, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office has finally released footage showing exactly what happened.
VIDEO: Florida deputy fatally shoots man trying to force his way into home
Read full article: VIDEO: Florida deputy fatally shoots man trying to force his way into homeFollowing a deputy-involved shooting earlier this month that left a man dead, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office has finally released footage showing exactly what happened.
COUNTY-BY-COUNTY: Sign up for Central Florida emergency alerts
Read full article: COUNTY-BY-COUNTY: Sign up for Central Florida emergency alertsFrom boil water notices to sand bag locations to shelters, emergency alerts are sent out by the county to get important information to its residents — especially during a major storm or hurricane.
Florida homeowners could use ‘reasonable force’ against spying drones under new bill
Read full article: Florida homeowners could use ‘reasonable force’ against spying drones under new billHomeowners in Florida would be allowed to use “reasonable force” against surveillance drones under a new bill pushed by lawmakers.
Residents take concerns to Rep. Daniel Webster event in Apopka. Here’s what they said
Read full article: Residents take concerns to Rep. Daniel Webster event in Apopka. Here’s what they saidNews 6 went to Apopka City Hall, where a representative from Congressman Daniel Webster’s office was meeting with constituents. Our camera was not allowed inside the meeting, but we did meet a handful of people outside who showed up to share their concerns.
This group tells Florida cities how much growth they need to account for
Read full article: This group tells Florida cities how much growth they need to account forThe Bureau of Economic Business and Research is contracted by the state to tell cities and counties how much growth they need to accommodate in the coming years.
Severe drought conditions in Central Florida spark urgent wildfire warnings
Read full article: Severe drought conditions in Central Florida spark urgent wildfire warningsJust like how Floridians take precautions for a hurricane, the Lake County Public Safety Director said the same should be done for a brush fire.
‘Nowhere to go:’ Fruitland Park fire devastates family, leaving son hospitalized
Read full article: ‘Nowhere to go:’ Fruitland Park fire devastates family, leaving son hospitalizedMike Cox was watching TV at home with his family in their Fruitland Park trailer when he heard the blood-curdling screams from his 6-year-old son’s bedroom.
‘Poor life choice:’ Male steals entire vape display from Tavares store, police say
Read full article: ‘Poor life choice:’ Male steals entire vape display from Tavares store, police sayA male was caught on surveillance video stealing an entire vape display from a store in Tavares, according to the police department.