Suspected fragrance thief arrested after string of robberies in Tampa Bay area: SPPD
A suspected fragrance thief was arrested after a string of robberies in the Tampa Bay area over the past month, according to the St. Petersburg Police Department. Police say that Brown and other co-conspirators went into multiple businesses late at night with face coverings and disguises to target fragrance storage...
Jury trial set in decades-old St. Petersburg cold case murder
A jury trial date was set Monday for Michael Lapniewski Jr., who is accused of killing an elderly St. Petersburg woman nearly four decades ago in a cold case investigators say was solved using modern DNA technology.
Crowds flock to see ‘Mama Duck’ in Clearwater
CLEARWATER — Go take a little waddle over to Coachman Park. Where one might overhear, “What the actual duck?!”. On Jan. 9, visitors, Jeep enthusiasts, and plenty of other onlookers tilted their heads upward to check out the self-proclaimed “World’s Largest Rubber Duck,” a 61-foot-tall attraction that will be...
School bus aide accused of hitting autistic child: sheriff
“Any form of abuse against a child is completely unacceptable."
Pinellas County victim loses $127K in ‘pop-up scam,’ sheriff’s office says
The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office is warning the community of an online scheme after a victim lost over $127,000.
Firefighters rescue dog trapped in drain pipe: HCFR
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. - An unexpected rescue ended with a wholesome moment after firefighters saved a dog that had fallen into a drain pipe Saturday morning, according to Hillsborough County Fire Rescue. The backstory:. Crews responded to the scene, where concerned residents explained that their dog, named...
8 Florida Restaurants Worth Planning A Road Trip Around
Florida is home to some of the most unique and memorable dining destinations in the country. From quirky roadside spots covered in dollar bills to historic establishments serving up classic Cuban fare, these restaurants offer more than just a meal. They provide an experience you will remember long after the...
Family mourns teen fatally struck by train while on his way to school
BRANDON, Fla. - The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office says Jamar Bond was found unresponsive Thursday morning along train tracks near Lakewood Drive in Brandon. Investigators say he was on his way to Brandon High School and was walking near the tracks when he was hit by a CSX freight train.
Concrete Jungle closes in downtown St. Pete
January 12, 2026 - Concrete Jungle, a Tulum-inspired restaurant and bar at 475 Central Ave. in downtown St. Petersburg, announced on social media that it has closed. The concept from local restaurateur Stephen Schrutt's Hunger Thirst Group opened in November 2023. According to a lawsuit filed in October 2025,...
Florida Pizza Spots That Prove Local Beats Corporate
Florida’s pizza scene is alive with independent pizzerias that create unforgettable experiences, far beyond what any chain could offer. From wood-fired crusts in Miami Beach to coal-oven masterpieces in Clearwater, local spots bring passion, creativity, and authenticity to every slice. These pizzerias prove that when...
