Deadly Streets, Florida Mourns, Help Name a Basketball Team

Patch operates 24 daily news sites in the Tampa Bay area and surrounding counties. The following are some of the top stories from the past day or so:

Accused Orlando Cop Killer: Reward Rises To $100K

As the search continues for the man accused of killing an Orlando Police officer on Monday, the reward for information that leads to Markeith Loyd’s arrest has climbed to $100,000. The increased reward amount was announced Tuesday afternoon.

Help Name Orlando Magic’s Lakeland D-League Team

The Orlando Magic is hoping its fans have the ability to pull off a little wizardry of their own. The NBA franchise has kicked off an official contest that calls on basketball lovers to help name is D-League affiliate that’s set to start playing in Lakeland during the 2017-18 season.

Sarasota Couple Bilked Church For $40K: Sheriff

Sarasota husband and wife face felony scheme to defraud charges after deputies say nearly $40,000 was stolen from Faith Baptist Church.

Florida Deadliest State For Pedestrians: Report

Florida is the country’s most dangerous state for people who choose to soak up the sun by traveling on foot. That’s according to a report released by Smart Growth America on Tuesday.

Man Called 911 To Report Cops, Nearly Ran Over Officer: Police Say

A 34-year-old Holiday man faces a long list of criminal charges after New Port Richey Police say he failed to follow orders during a traffic stop, nearly struck an officer with his vehicle and then led them on a chase that ended in Hillsborough County early Tuesday morning.

Support For Orlando Pours In Following Officers' Deaths

The City of Orlando and the state of Florida are in mourning following two law enforcement deaths connected to a hunt for the same murder suspect. Orlando Police Master Sgt. Debra Clayton died Monday following an exchange of gunfire with the suspect. Orange County Deputy First Class Norman Lewis was killed during a motorcycle crash that occurred as he was taking part in the manhunt that was sparked by Clayton’s shooting.

Deadly Salmonella: Palmer Candy Issues Nationwide Recall

Folks with a sweet tooth might want to check their pantries. The Palmer Candy Company has issued a voluntary recall of certain products after concerns about possible salmonella contamination arose. The potentially tainted candy was shipped nationally and includes two popular Publix store brand items, as well.

Accused Orlando Cop Killer’s ‘Most Wanted’ Aspirations Aired On Facebook

As the search continues for the man accused of gunning down an Orlando Police officer Monday, just weeks after the shooting death of his pregnant girlfriend, more details about Markeith Loyd’s life have surfaced.

Photo of Master Sgt. Debra Clayton's patrol SUV courtesy of the Orlando Police Department