LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has released two videos capturing the people suspected in the gas station shooting of an 87-year-old man.
One video shows the suspects walking across the parking lot of Citgo, 2101 West Main Street, and the second shows the incident occurring around 2:40 p.m. Saturday, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said.
Two suspects approached the passenger side of the vehicle, while another suspect approached the driver side, where the victim was sitting. During a confrontation, the victim was shot and all three suspects fled.
The victim, whose name has not been released, was transported to an area hospital and underwent surgery Saturday night, Walsh said.
Anyone with information on the shooting can call LPD at 353-787-2121 or Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS. Crimeline callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward.
LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is searching for three suspects who they say are involved in the shooting of an 87-year-old man.
LPD responded to Citgo, 2101 West Main Street on a report of a shooting around 2:40 p.m. Saturday, LPD. Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. Two suspects approached the passenger side of the vehicle, while another suspect approached the driver side, where the victim was sitting. During a confrontation, the victim was shot and all three suspects fled.
The victim, whose name has not been released, was transported to an area hospital and underwent surgery Saturday night, Walsh said.
Anyone with information on the shooting can call LPD at 353-787-2121 or Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS. Crimeline callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward.
Publisher’s note: Nina Rosania touched many lives in her short 43 years, including my own. I thought it was important to recognize her for the imprint she left on this community and the hole it now has to fill with her absence. I wanted to give people the opportunity to share stories and their feelings about Nina, so those who missed out on meeting her would know what a caring, selfless person she was. I met Nina after I started Inside Lake. She barely knew me in the beginning, and she’d come to my defense in these ever-so-popular word of mouth groups when people weren’t happy with a story I wrote. She’d tip me to different things, and she’d take photos for me too…and never wanted credit. Sometimes when a photo was labeled “Courtesy photo,” it was her. She truly wanted Inside Lake to succeed, as she did with all the Lake County small businesses. She’d send me random messages, most starting with “Hello, beautiful,” and she would tell me what I was doing was important and not to get discouraged when one of my stories was under attack. A bad day could change instantly when you got an encouraging message from Nina. In honor of Nina’s memory, I challenge everyone to perform a random act of kindness before the end of the year. I’m going to miss you, Nina. The world is a dimmer place. – Marilyn M. Aciego
EUSTIS, Fla.—Lake County is a dimmer place after a well-known small business advocate, law enforcement supporter, mother and friend, lost her battle with kidney disease earlier this month.
Nina Rosania, 43, died Sept 21 at AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares, after suffering a medical emergency at her Eustis home. Rosania fought hard for more than 10 years, undergoing numerous surgeries and countless hospital stays.
Known throughout the community, Rosania was a tireless advocate for small businesses and law enforcement, but first she was a mother. She often posted the meals she cooked for her two boys, Mikey, 17, and Joey, 10, on her Facebook page, giving her nearly 650 friends a small glimpse of the love she had for her boys. Many times, she was in the kitchen cooking up a meal just days or even hours after being released from the hospital.
Nina Rosania and her beloved boys, Mikey and Joey. Photo: Nina Rosania/Facebook
“My boys, my world” accompanied each post and her love for them was obvious from her other posts about Mikey’s sports and academic accomplishments, and trips to Mall at Millenia just to get Joey a video game he wanted.
Rosania was born in Newark, New Jersey and moved to Florida as a child. She was a graduate of Eustis High School and lost her parents when she was in her 30s, longtime friend Shannon Cook told Inside Lake. She enjoyed patronizing local restaurants and some of her favorites were El Marie and That Place, both in Eustis, and Tavares restaurants, Kalua Beach Bar, Tavares Dog House and Lake Harris Hideaway. She also loved the beach.
Nina Rosania. Photo courtesy of Sal Rosania
Before her health declined, Rosania worked in real estate and repossessed vehicles for a living and after, she bought and sold items on resale sites.
Rosania constantly advocated on local “word of mouth” Facebook groups for Lake County businesses, by sharing their posts, recommending them and even moderating groups to drum up business. Rosania was also a strong supporter of law enforcement, taking on a supporting role, helping Cook organize the annual “Back the Blue and Red Walk.” Rosania did not look for recognition for the things she did. She selflessly helped people behind the scenes and sometimes they did not even know she helped. Late last year, she helped organize a benefit for Lake County Sheriff’s Office Cpl. Adam Tytler who was battling cancer at the time. Tytler only found out last week Rosania was instrumental in helping with the benefit organized by Cook and LCSO Lt. Kristin Thompson. Inside Lake attended the benefit and spoke with Tytler in the hours after Rosania’s death.
“I first met her at the charity benefit,” Tytler told Inside Lake. “Life isn’t fair. It seems the good ones are taken too soon and the bad ones stay longer than they should.”
Photo courtesy of Sal Rosania
As news of Rosania’s passing made its way through Lake County, social media posts started pouring in about the friend she was, how she helped small businesses get the word out, her staunch support of law enforcement and her immense love for her two boys. Cook started a fundraiser to benefit Rosania’s boys, and at press time it had reached about 10 percent of its goal; to donate, visit Honoring Nina’s Legacy for Her Beloved Sons Bonnie Whicher Photography is also donating a portion of proceeds from some of her photo shoots to benefit Rosania’s boys. “Fifty percent of all family photo sessions in the studio or on-location scheduled with me in October will go directly to Nina’s children,” Whicher told Inside Lake.
Rosania was preceded in death by her parents, Frank Rosania and Noella Benton Clark, and stepfather, Robert “Bob” Clark. She is survived by her sons, Mikey Napoli and Joey Holt; and siblings, Sal Rosania, Shannon Houstoun, and half-brother Chuck Ania, along with close friends and supporters, Blaine and Nadzeya Langford. A Celebration of Life for Rosania is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6, Hamlin & Hilbish Chapel, 326 East Orange Avenue, Eustis, followed by a gathering from 3 to 5 p.m. at Tavares Dog House, 201 West Ruby Street, Tavares.
Nina Rosania, left, before she was sickened by kidney disease. Tavares artist Roger Ballas’ rendering of Nina he gifted to longtime friend Shannon Cook, right.
Inside Lake asked the community to share some words about Rosania.
I came into the picture when I was 16 years old, and I was the primary babysitter for (a family’s) children and any parties they had. (Mom of the family) liked to refer to me as her extra set of eyes. Through these parties, I got to meet Nina. Back then, she still had this metallic blue Lexus sedan sitting on the craziest looking rims I had ever seen, and I remember thinking to myself I wanted to grow up and be just like her! She was a repo lady and had zero fears at all, or so it seemed. Mikey, her oldest was barely walking when I came into their lives. She always had a French pedicure and made sure her makeup and hair were on point, even with such a young child (which honestly is a huge inspiration to me now, being a single mom). She made everything look so easy. The last time I got to see her out and about was my son’s 2nd birthday party last year. I’ve never seen her so frail until (her last hospital stay.) I opened Facebook to a flood of please pray for Nina, she’s on life support, and I broke. I knew I had to find out where she was, I had to go see her one last time. When I walked in the room, I immediately said, “Hey gorgeous, look at you with your hair braided,” I and kept the compliments flowing. All these children that I helped take care of so many years ago were coming to give tearful goodbyes to this angel we’ve had in our lives. I won’t lie, I broke quite a few times in that room with her. I brought her a seashell since I know she hasn’t been able to get in the water for some time, and anyone who knew Nina knows how much she loved the beach. I also had our last “teatime” with her, and we all noticed her blood pressure rising each time I told her more juicy tea. It was amazing and (another visitor) kept saying, keep talking Katie, she knows you are here!! I promised her I would spend the next two years collecting seashells for her and continuing to fight for myself and my child, which is something she taught me how to do. I intend on spreading love and positivity, just like Nina taught us all to do. – Katie Thompson, longtime friend
I think Nina Rosania’s signature greeting, was hello beautiful I don’t think she ever knew how much she touched my heart especially when I was fighting my own battles of kidney disease and this was after I had just got done with 6 months of doing chemo for stage 4 Endometriosis and 5 weeks every day of radiation! She was a rock for me. – Linda Sitterson, friend
Little did I know when I bought something from an online stranger 10 years ago it would be the start of a cherished, close friendship. She had just been diagnosed with kidney failure and we became fast friends. She was the most selfless person I have ever met! There was nothing Nina wouldn’t do for her boys and her community! I watched her suffer with the disease over the years, but she never gave up! Ten years ago, the doctors said she had a year! She fought for nine more years which I have no doubt she did for her children. I will forever cherish our friendship, our beach trips, our events we were worked on together and most definitely her assistance with my social media page. (I’m not a techy person!) More than anything I will miss our nightly talks when we sat on her bed talked about our days. I’m glad she isn’t suffering anymore but the selfish part of me isn’t sure how to live without her.– Shannon Cook, friend
Shannon Cook and Nina Rosania. Photo courtesy of Shannon Cook
I met Nina through a community initiative to support local families who were struggling with food, basic necessities, and school supplies. Nina didn’t just participate—she led by example, offering her time and skills to organize and execute the project. It was incredible to see her dedication and energy transform what began as a small effort into something that impacted so many. And this was just one of the countless ways Nina gave back to the community. She was always involved in something, always helping others. Her kindness and generosity touched so many lives, and her example will continue to inspire us all. – Natalie Werner, friend
I met Nina during my road patrol duties visiting the schools, she was very kind and introduced me to her Joey who absolutely loves law enforcement. I remember eating lunch with Joey and showing him my patrol car. From that point on, he was my little special friend. Nina and Joey would visit me at the station and give me donuts or a special card he made just for me. Nina told me anytime Joey saw a Eustis police car he would ask Nina if it was me. Nina was a very special person who always took time to help the community. She didn’t ask for fame or recognition; she just wanted to help the community because she truly loved this city, she loved law enforcement, and she loved people. She will be missed, and as long as I wear this uniform, I will do my best to look out for Joey.– Sgt. Lauren Brown, Eustis Police Department
Eustis Police Department Sgt. Lauren Brown and Joey in 2020. PHOTO: Eustis Police Department
Nina was the most giving person I’ve ever met. Even if you joked about wanting or needing something she would jump and get it for you. One time I commented on one of her many food posts on how amazing it looked and 5 minutes later she was at my door with a bowl for me. My wife was like, “Why is the garage sale lady making you food?” She always pointed people to Eustis Sign Co. and always promoted our business. I always called Nina my dealer since she sold 100’s of DVDs to me and helped me start my collection. – Jeremiah Ellsworth, friend
Nina was a tireless advocate for small businesses, always championing their growth and success. She believed in the power of local businesses to uplift and shape the character of our community. She knew the importance of coming together, and she brought people together in ways that strengthened the bonds between us all. Her giving spirit and generous nature extended to everyone. Nina was deeply involved in countless community initiatives, always the first to volunteer, to show up, to give of herself. Whether it was through volunteering with local community groups like CleanUp Eustis or lending a helping hand to anyone in need, Nina’s impact was felt far and wide. Though she has left this world, her influence remains in every corner of our town, in the lives she touched, and in the businesses, she helped thrive. Nina’s children—who she loved with every fiber of her being—carry forward her legacy. To them, we send all of our love and condolences. Please know that the entire community stands with you during this time. I will forever miss Nina’s kind heart, her unwavering commitment, and her radiant smile. The void she leaves behind in our community is immeasurable, but I take comfort in the knowledge that her spirit will continue to guide us all, reminding us to be generous, compassionate, and to always lift each other up—just as she did.–Christine Cruz, Interim Eustis City Commissioner
Christine Cruz and Nina Rosania. Photo courtesy of Christine Cruz
My son, Enzo and Mikey went to school together and were best friends when they were younger. Nina was such an amazing woman, mom and friend to so many! I remember her favorite thing was doing all the Halloween bags for so many kids! She was so giving to everybody no matter who you were! She will definitely be missed by so many as well as her giving heart to our community! Another good human taken too soon! – Wanda Baldwin, friend
She gave me a keychain with a phrase a few months ago that is with my truck key, a reminder of a standing argument we had. “I love you the most. The end.” – Sal Rosania, brother
TAVARES, Fla.—The father of 9-year-old Jamaria Sessions, and his girlfriend, have been indicted for Jamaria’s brutal murder.
Lojuan Sessions, 26, and Tyshael Martin, 34, are both being held in the Lake County Jail on no bond, accused of ongoing abuse that led to the death of Jamaria, who would have been in fourth grade this school year.
Martin pleaded not guilty to her crimes Monday morning and was ordered not to have contact with Jamaria’s next of kin, Althea Chenault. Chenault, known as, “Nana” to Jamaria, is Jamaria’s maternal grandmother. Chenault had custody of Jamaria and her little sister Jaliah, following the death of their mother, Tadrina Dort. Inside Lake named Jaliah in this story at the request of Chenault because the sisters were so close. Dort died in September 2022 from congestive heart failure after beating leukemia; she was only 24 years old. Sessions was serving a prison sentence when Dort died and he picked the girls up from school without Chenault’s permission in October 2023, after his release. A probable cause affidavit, written by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office detective who investigated Jamaria’s case, states the detective uncovered evidence that the abuse started the day the girls were picked up from school by their father.
Tyshael Martin was arraigned Monday. VIDEO: Marilyn M. Aciego/Inside Lake
Chenault was in attendance for Martin’s arraignment, along with her son, Trane Chenault. They also attended Martin’s first appearance right after she was arrested, and they plan on attending Sessions’ arraignment for aggravated manslaughter of a child, scheduled for Monday.
“We’re going to be there for everything,” Althea Chenault told Inside Lake.
Chenault is also fighting to get Jaliah back into her care, her next court date is the custody case is scheduled for November. Jaliah is currently in the care of another maternal family member.
Jamaria, left, Althea “Nana” Chenault and Jaliah. Photo courtesy of Althea Chenault
Martin is charged with first degree murder, aggravated child abuse and child neglect. During her arraignment, Circuit Judge James Baxley stated Martin was charged with second degree murder and documentation in the case also stated second degree murder. Inside Lake reached out to Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney Bill Gladson’s office for an explanation.
“The document… was supposed to be utilized as a placeholder for information until we formerly indicted on the more serious charge (Monday,)” Brittney Carman, Public Information Officer for Gladson’s Office said in an email.
Martin told Baxley she is retaining a private attorney and expected him to speak with her Monday; at press time Wednesday, she still did not have an attorney, according to Lake County Clerk of Court online records.
Publisher’s note: This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
LAKE COUNTY, Fla.— Tropical Storm Helene, expected to make landfall Thursday as Hurricane Helene, is expected to bring wind and rain to Lake County and residents should finish storm preparations by Wednesday afternoon. How to get information and sandbags, along with closures are listed below.
Citizens Information line: 352-253-9999
AlertLake Notification System: sign up at https://alertlake.com/ or text ALERTLAKE to 888777
TAVARES, Fla.- Lake County public schools will be closed Thursday due to Tropical Storm Helene, which is expected to be a hurricane when it makes landfall, according to Lake County Schools.
After-school activities on Wednesday are not cancelled and a decision will be made about Friday following Wednesday’s mid-day briefing, LCS said.
LADY LAKE, Fla.—A 15-year-old male was arrested Saturday night after being accused of firing several shots in a restaurant parking lot where a crowd of people had gathered.
Lady Lake Police Department officers were responding to a reported fight in progress at Fresh Jalapeno Mexican Restaurant, 360 South Highway 27/441 when they received information shots had been fired in the parking lot, around 11 p.m. Saturday, according to Communications Director Elisha Pappacoda.
As officers arrived on scene, a silver SUV being driven by the 15-year-old suspect, sped out of the parking lot and turned south on U.S. Highway 27/441. Officers from Fruitland Park Police Department deployed a tire deflation device, and the teen was taken into custody. His name has not been released.
Witnesses told LLPD a fight started between two groups inside the restaurant and continued outside in the parking lot, where the teen is accused of firing the shots, Pappacoda said. No one was injured. Officers found several shell casings in the parking lot and a handgun along the highway near where the teen fled police.
The teen was arrested for four counts of discharging a firearm in public, two counts of fleeing and eluding, driving without a license and aggravated battery. The aggravated battery charge stems from the teen hitting someone as he sped out of the parking lot, Pappacoda said.
MOUNT DORA, Fla.—Mount Dora Police Department is investigating after a male was shot in the area of East Jackson Avenue around 8:15 p.m. Monday.
Police released very little information Tuesday; Spokesperson Misty Sommer confirmed to Inside Lake a male was shot in the leg and airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. His name and age were not released and the incident is under investigation.
This is the second shooting in Mount Dora in a little more than a month. On Aug. 2, several people were at Cauley Lott Park, just a few blocks from Monday night’s shooting, along with vehicles parked along Pine Street, when a dark-colored, late model sedan backed out of a parking space. Two people walking down the sidewalk began firing at the sedan and a third shooter returned fire. A bystander was shot in the leg and was transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares by a family member for treatment. An unoccupied SUV was also struck with multiple bullets, Sommer said last month.
If you have information on either shooting, call MDPD’s Criminal Investigations Unit at 352-735-7130.
MOUNT DORA, Fla.—The City of Mount Dora has lifted its precautionary boil water notice, according to spokesperson Misty Sommer.
“Lab results have confirmed that no contaminates were found in our water supply, and it’s safe for all normal use,” Sommer said in an email shortly before 1 p.m. Friday.
Around 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, an independent contractor struck a water main while working on a development at U.S. Highway 441 and Natoma Boulevard. Residents and businesses lost water, and most were restored by 11 p.m. Tuesday. The city issued a boil water notice following restoration and expected it to be lifted by Friday.
EUSTIS, Fla.—A social media post about a Eustis group home set off a firestorm of comments earlier this week in the popular Facebook group Eustis FL Word of Mouth.
A member of the group posted about an interaction she had with young resident of the home and expressed her concerns that the child may have been abused. Inside Lake reached out to Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri and he said “there are no signs of abuse” at the Press Forward group home that houses teen and preteen girls. “It doesn’t appear any there is any abuse or neglect,” Capri told Inside Lake. “Everything is in compliance.”
Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri
The house, located at 1600 East Orange Avenue, has been the site of numerous calls for service, Capri said, and many of the residents suffer from mental health issues. He met with the owner of Press Forward this week to discuss how they can work together to reduce the number of calls for service. Last month, a 15-year-old girl was reported missing from the facility after she was picked up by an 18-year-old female. Both were later found safe and the staff member who allowed the 15-year-old to leave with the 18-year-old was fired from the facility, Capri said.
Eustis Police Department distributed this flyer after a teen was reported missing from a Press Forward group home.
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) inspected the facility following the report of the missing teen and they are “involved,” Capri said. “The safety of the children is the most important.”
