Double Homicide Motive, 125 Wildfires, Data Breach

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:

Social Security Numbers Swiped In State Data Breach

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services is offering free credit protection for an estimated 469 people whose social security numbers may have been compromised during a recent data breach. Another 16,000 concealed weapons licensees’ names may also have been obtained during the hack, state officials say.

Firefighters Dive In To Rescue Injured Owl

Daring water rescues aren’t necessarily out of the ordinary for firefighters in a state like Florida. It’s not every day, however, that first responders find themselves diving in to rescue an injured owl from a backyard pool.

125 Wildfires Burn Across Florida Despite Rain

While the Tampa Bay area and much of the state saw much-needed rain over the weekend, it wasn’t enough to end drought conditions or threats of wildfires, according to state officials. As of Monday, in fact, 125 active wildfires continued to burn across the state. Most counties in Central and Southwestern Florida were also still experiencing moderate to very high wildfire risks, state officials say.

Disrespect For Islam Angered Accused Double Murderer: Cops

As the Tampa Police Department continues to investigate a Friday night double homicide, authorities have released information about the alleged motive in the case. Detectives say the man accused of shooting and killing his two roommates was upset over what he viewed as disrespect for his religion.

Click It Or Ticket, Florida Troopers Warn

The Florida Highway Patrol and law enforcement officers across the state are teaming up to remind folks of the importance of buckling up. The annual “Click It or Ticket” campaign kicked off Monday, May 22. It runs through June 4.

Florida No. 1 For Military Retirees: Study

Military veterans looking for a place to lay down permanent roots during their retirement years may want to consider the Sunshine State. According to the folks at WalletHub, Florida is the best state for military retirees.

Palatial Beachfront Estate Boasts Labyrinth Garden

House hunters with deep pockets and a passion for the beachfront lifestyle may find this estate on Siesta Key a dream come true. Situated on nearly four acres of land within Sanderling Club, this palatial estate boasts frontage on both Heron Lagoon and the Gulf of Mexico.

Cold Front Set To Shake Up Tampa Bay’s Weather

Tampa Bay area residents may want to batten down the hatches for the workweek ahead. According to the National Weather Service, a cold front heading into the region is expected to shake things up a bit.

Photo courtesy of Polk County Fire Rescue