Texting Bills, Naked Man Dies After Stopping Traffic, Tow To Go

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:

Dump Truck Driver Killed In Accident At Tampa Sweeper Facility

The Tampa Police Department is investigating a fatal accident that occurred at the City of Tampa’s sweeper facility on Maritime Boulevard early Wednesday morning.

Police ID Naked Man Who Died After Stopping Tampa Traffic

As the investigation into a fatal Wednesday morning incident that stopped traffic along Dale Mabry Highway continues, Tampa Police have released some details in the case. The “naked man” who jumped on a car, prompting the disruption, has been identified as Nathan Howard Hamilton.

Starbucks Giving Away Free Espresso: Reminder

As Starbucks continues its effort to spread goodwill over the holiday season, more “Pop-Up Cheer Parties” are popping up in the Tampa Bay area.

$15.9 Million Belleair Mansion Delivers Views

Tampa Bay area house hunters with a passion for waterfront properties that deliver breathtaking views might want to check out a listing on the Belleair market. At $15.9 million, this 12,935-square-foot home might not be right for those on a tight budget though. After all, views of Clearwater Harbor and Sand Key don’t necessarily come cheap.

2 New Zika Virus Cases Confirmed In Tampa Bay Area

The total number of Zika virus cases reported in Florida climbed to 1,286 Wednesday. That number includes two new travel-related cases in Polk County.

Tow To Go Offers Safe Rides Home Through The New Year

With the holiday party season still in high gear, AAA is doing its part to help keep Tampa Bay area motorists safe. The auto club has once again teamed up with Bud Light to offer safe rides home for impaired drivers and their vehicles.

Bills Target Floridians Who Text Behind The Wheel

Motorists who text behind the wheel may soon find themselves facing tougher penalties in the Sunshine State if two bills introduced into the Florida House garner approval next year. One bill would make texting while driving a primary offense while another would target young drivers who text.

Hazardous Weather Outlook Issued For Tampa Bay Area

Sunshine, blue skies and daily highs in the low 80s might make the Tampa Bay area the envy of the country as winter storms continue to pummel some regions. Even so, forecasters at the National Weather Service are warning that conditions might not be as perfect as they seem.

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