Babysitter Arrest | Dog-Fighting Ring | Swimmer's Body Found: FL News

FLORIDA — On the weekend, we present a week in review of the top stories and headlines from across Florida. Here's a roundup of some of the biggest and quirkiest stories across the state. You can also find your local Patch and catch up on those stories by clicking here.

4 Men Charged With Robbing Tampa Convenience Stores: U.S. DOJ

Four men are facing charges after robbing Tampa convenience stores, the U.S. Department of Justice said.

Southwest Flight Into Tampa Flew As Low As 150 Feet Over Water

The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating the Southwest flight's low descent over Courtney Campbell Causeway on July 14.

Man Dies In Accidental Shooting In St. Pete: Pinellas County Sheriff

Two roommates were pointing guns at each other, thinking they were unloaded, when one was accidentally shot in the chest, PCSO said.

11 FL Big Lots Stores To Close After Grim Earnings Report

Big Lots has designated stores for closure nationally, and in Florida, after $205 million in losses for the first quarter of 2024.

Speeding Tesla Driver Thrown Into Gulf After Driving Off I-275: FHP

A passing boater rescued the Tesla driver, who drove off I-275 into the Gulf of Mexico Wednesday, the Florida Highway Patrol said.

FL Officials React To Biden's Withdrawal From 2024 Presidential Race

"Democrats are just rearranging the deck chairs on the Titanic," Gov. Ron DeSantis tweeted after Joe Biden said he will not seek reelection.

New Downtown Sarasota Sprouts Sets Grand Opening Date

A 23,000-square-foot Sprouts grocery store will open its doors to shoppers soon. It’s part of the One Main Plaza project, reports said.

FL ID Numbers To Change Due To New State Law: What To Know

FL driver's license and ID holders must soon change their card numbers to comply with a new state law authorities say promotes security.

8th Best City To Live In U.S. Nestled On FL Coast

This Florida town is not only the eighth best city to live in the U.S., but it is also the 47th best city for livability globally.

Four Endangered Lemurs Born At FL Lemur Conservation Foundation

The Lemur Conservation Foundation recently welcomed 4 baby lemurs representing 3 endangered species at its Myakka City reserve.

Teacher Arrested For Relationship With Teen: Tarpon Springs Police

A Tarpon Springs High School math teacher had an inappropriate relationship with a 15-year-old student, police said.

7-Foot-Gator Wanders Into Garage: North Port Police

A North Port homeowner was surprised to find a 7-foot-gator in their garage, police said.

FL Babysitter Created Child Porn With Toddler In His Care: U.S. DOJ

A babysitter in Dade City will spend time in federal prison for creating child sex abuse videos with a 2-year-old in his care, US DOJ said.

FL Tops 23 Million Residents, Sets Population Record

Over the next five years, population increases in Florida will be the equivalent of adding a new city each year, a state report said.

Missing Swimmer’s Body Recovered In Madeira Beach: Reports

The swimmer's body was found along the shoreline Tuesday morning in Madeira Beach, reports said.

Robbery Suspect Jumped From Balcony To Balcony At Tampa Hotel: Watch

An armed robbery suspect made “dramatic attempts to escape” after being found at a Tampa hotel, the Hillsborough County sheriff said.

Diesel Thief Hits FL Deputy’s Vehicle While Leaving Scene: Sheriff

The thief stole 93 gallons of diesel before leaving deputies on a chase into Pinellas County, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said.

2 Zebus Found Wandering In Pasco County: Sheriff

Two zebus were found wandering in Lacoochee Thursday morning, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office said.

Dog Fighting, Drug Trafficking Arrests Made In St. Pete: Watch

More than 100 dogs were rescued during the investigation into a dog fighting and drug trafficking ring in St. Pete, police said.

Selby Botanical Garden Lands On Time’s List Of World’s Greatest Places

The Marie Selby Botanical Garden in Sarasota landed on Time’s annual list of World’s Greatest Places.

2 Men Stole Phones, Wallets From Women At Bars: St. Pete Police

The suspects, who face multiple charges, may be part of a statewide pickpocketing group in Florida, St. Pete police said.