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LovExtension: 25 years of quietly changing lives

By Trent Shipton, Special to Inside Lake TAVARES, Fla. — For 25 years, LovExtension has quietly changed lives one grocery bag, one roll of toilet paper and one act of kindness at a time. On Thursday afternoon, Bay and Lake Pharmacy had the privilege of attending the organization’s 25th anniversary celebration, and what we witnessed was nothing short of extraordinary. Behind the mission are two remarkable women whose compassion has inspired an army of volunteers dedicated to serving others. During a tour of the facility, we learned the staggering scope of their work. LovExtension currently serves nearly 1,700 clients throughout […]

LovExtension: 25 years of quietly changing lives Read More »

Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Features, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / June 11, 2026

Groveland man charged with cocaine trafficking after multi-agency drug raid

GROVELAND, Fla. — A Groveland man is facing a cocaine trafficking charge after a multi-agency narcotics investigation led to search warrants at a duplex on Blue Street Tuesday morning. Detectives with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Bureau and the Groveland Police Department executed narcotics search warrants at 745 and 747 Blue St. on Tuesday after determining narcotics were allegedly being distributed from both apartments, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team was used to secure the duplex while detectives from LCSO, Clermont, Eustis, Groveland and Leesburg searched both residences. During the

Groveland man charged with cocaine trafficking after multi-agency drug raid Read More »

Clermont, Eustis, Groveland, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / June 11, 2026

Head-on crash kills Leesburg man in Marion County, Eustis woman critically injured

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — A Leesburg man was killed and a Eustis woman was critically injured in a head-on crash Wednesday afternoon on County Road 42 in Marion County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 30-year-old Leesburg man was driving a sedan westbound near Southeast 105th Avenue when he crossed the center line and collided head-on with a pickup truck around 1:45 p.m., FHP said. The impact scattered debris across the roadway, and a second sedan struck the debris. The Leesburg man was pronounced dead at the scene. One of his passengers, a 27-year-old Eustis woman, suffered critical injuries

Head-on crash kills Leesburg man in Marion County, Eustis woman critically injured Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / June 3, 2026

Dad sentenced to 12 years in 2022 crash that killed two sons, injured third

TAVARES, Fla. — The man who was drunk and behind the wheel when he killed his two sons on Easter Eve 2022 has been sentenced to 12 years in prison. David Shawn Pelfrey, 25, of Fruitland Park, was picked up on a warrant in February 2024, nearly two years after the crash that killed his sons, Damian, 4, and Dominic, 2, and seriously injured their brother, Daylen, 1.     Pelfrey was charged with DUI manslaughter, vehicular homicide and operating a vehicle without a driver’s license causing death; he was scheduled to stand trial May 11 and pleaded no contest

Dad sentenced to 12 years in 2022 crash that killed two sons, injured third Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / May 17, 2026

From pandemic frustration to a new model: How Ultimate Health Direct Primary Care is redefining healthcare in Lake County

LEESBURG, Fla. —When access to healthcare became increasingly difficult in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, and frustrations with insurance-driven care reached a boiling point, Amanda Gaskin made a decision that would change not only her career, but the way many Lake County residents experience medicine. She walked away from the traditional model and built her own. What started in 2021 as a leap of faith has since grown into a thriving business rooted in Leesburg. Ultimate Health Direct Primary Care offers a different approach to healthcare, one that prioritizes time, access and relationships over insurance approvals and rushed appointments. “I was

From pandemic frustration to a new model: How Ultimate Health Direct Primary Care is redefining healthcare in Lake County Read More »

Inside Business, Leesburg / By / May 16, 2026

Overnight lane closures planned on 441 in Tavares, Leesburg this week for resurfacing projects

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — Motorists traveling on U.S. Highway 441 in Tavares and Leesburg should expect overnight lane closures this week as the Florida Department of Transportation continues resurfacing projects in both cities. The closures are scheduled for the week of May 3 through May 9 as part of roadway improvement projects aimed at rehabilitating asphalt surfaces and maintaining safe, reliable travel lanes. Pedestrian curb ramps will also be upgraded where needed to meet current Americans with Disabilities Act standards. In Tavares, crews are resurfacing U.S. Highway 441 from Lakeshore Boulevard to Lake Eustis Drive. In Leesburg, the project includes

Overnight lane closures planned on 441 in Tavares, Leesburg this week for resurfacing projects Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Tavares / By / May 3, 2026

Search warrant at ‘The Carwash’ in Leesburg nets drugs, pair of arrests

LEESBURG, Fla. — Two people are being held without bond in the Lake County Jail after a search warrant at what deputies described as a “fake business” uncovered a large quantity of drugs Thursday, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Bureau executed a narcotics search warrant at 1645 Veech Road in Leesburg, a location commonly known as “The Carwash,” LCSO Sgt. Jim Vachon said. “This location has been identified as a fake business and a known location where multiple individuals will hang out and distribute narcotics,” Vachon said. “Furthermore, back in December

Search warrant at ‘The Carwash’ in Leesburg nets drugs, pair of arrests Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / April 27, 2026

Murder suspect captured in Leesburg, police say

LEESBURG, Fla. — A man wanted for murder in a fatal shooting Friday morning has been taken into custody, according to Leesburg Police Department. Matthew Pasco, 43, was apprehended Sunday on North Citrus Boulevard by LPD Officer Kira Smith, the department said in a social media post. Lake County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Jim Vachon confirmed Pasco was in custody in an email. Pasco was wanted for first-degree murder after deputies said he attempted to shoot a dog attacking a woman and instead shot the dog’s owner in the area of 1904 Griffin Road near a homeless encampment Friday. The man

Murder suspect captured in Leesburg, police say Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / April 19, 2026

Man wanted for murder in Leesburg shooting remains on the run

LEESBURG, Fla. — A warrant has been issued for the arrest of a man deputies say fatally shot a dog owner Friday. Matthew Pasco, 43, is considered “armed and dangerous,” Lake County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Jim Vachon said. Witnesses told deputies a woman was being attacked by a large dog in the area of 1904 Griffin Road near a homeless encampment when Pasco attempted to shoot the dog Friday morning, LCSO Public Information Officer Deputy Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake. The dog’s owner was shot. He was airlifted to an area hospital, where he was pronounced dead. His identity has

Man wanted for murder in Leesburg shooting remains on the run Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / April 18, 2026

Dog attack leads to fatal shooting in Leesburg; deputies seeking person of interest

LEESBURG, Fla. — A man is dead and a woman is injured after a dog attack led to a shooting Friday morning in Leesburg, prompting a nearby school to be placed on lockdown. Witnesses told deputies a woman was being attacked by a large dog in the area of 1904 Griffin Road near a homeless encampment when Matthew Pasco, 43, attempted to shoot the dog to help her, Lake County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Deputy Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake. The dog’s owner was shot, Earley told Inside Lake. He was airlifted to an area hospital, where he was

Dog attack leads to fatal shooting in Leesburg; deputies seeking person of interest Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / April 17, 2026

Friends, family demand answers in deputy-involved shooting; LCSO releases statement

TAVARES, Fla. — There is no body-worn camera footage of the deadly encounter between a Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputy and a 38-year-old man, LCSO said, as family and friends held a rally in Tavares Wednesday. At 6:19 a.m. Sunday, a 911 caller reported a man had been stabbed in the neck, according to audio released earlier this week. Deputies with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and officers with Leesburg Police Department responded to 2415 Montclair Road. Bystanders pointed deputies in the direction the suspect fled on foot, and a deputy located Timotheus Reed. During the encounter, the deputy shot

Friends, family demand answers in deputy-involved shooting; LCSO releases statement Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Tavares / By / April 15, 2026

Bodycam, 911 call released in Leesburg deputy-involved shooting

Editor’s note: The 911 call and body camera footage included in this story contain explicit language and graphic content that may be disturbing to some readers. LEESBURG, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office released body camera footage and a 911 call Monday in connection with the death of a man Sunday. At 6:19 a.m., a 911 caller reported a man had been stabbed in the neck, according to audio released Monday. Deputies with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and officers with Leesburg Police Department responded to 2415 Montclair Road, LCSO Public Information Officer Deputy Stephanie Earley said Sunday afternoon.

Bodycam, 911 call released in Leesburg deputy-involved shooting Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / April 15, 2026

BREAKING NEWS: Man shot, killed by deputy in Leesburg

LEESBURG, Fla. — A man is dead after he was shot by a Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputy before daybreak Sunday. At approximately 6:19 a.m., a 911 caller reported someone had been stabbed multiple times. Deputies with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office and officers with Leesburg Police Department responded to 2415 Montclair Road, LCSO Public Information Officer Stephanie Earley said. Bystanders pointed in the direction the alleged suspect fled on foot, and a deputy located Timotheus Reed, 38, Earley said. During the encounter, the deputy shot Reed. He was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased.

BREAKING NEWS: Man shot, killed by deputy in Leesburg Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / April 12, 2026

Leesburg police searching for vehicle in deadly hit-and-run

LEESBURG, Fla. — Leesburg police are searching for a vehicle involved in a fatal hit-and-run early Friday morning. Officers with the Leesburg Police Department were conducting a well-being check around 12:09 a.m. near U.S. Highway 27, south of Singletary Park, when they found 40-year-old Ashleah C. Hayes deceased in the roadway near the intersection of U.S. Highway 27 and English Road, Lt. Shannon Walsh said. The preliminary investigation found Hayes was crossing U.S. Highway 27 when she was struck by a northbound gray Hyundai sedan, Walsh said. The driver fled the scene. “The suspect vehicle is believed to have front-end

Leesburg police searching for vehicle in deadly hit-and-run Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / April 10, 2026

SUV crash near Leesburg kills passenger, driver airlifted

LEESBURG, Fla. — A woman was killed and a man was seriously injured in a single-vehicle crash near Leesburg Thursday afternoon, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 2:10 p.m., a 69-year-old New Boston, Michigan man was driving a 2023 Ford Explorer northbound on County Road 473 near Allyson Road when the SUV ran off the roadway for an unknown reason and struck a tree, FHP said. The driver was airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center with serious injuries. His passenger, a 69-year-old woman, also of New Boston, Michigan, was transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares, where she was pronounced

SUV crash near Leesburg kills passenger, driver airlifted Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / March 19, 2026

Leesburg police identify man found shot multiple times

LEESBURG, Fla.— Leesburg Police Department has released the identity of the man found shot multiple times Wednesday. LPD responded to Parkside Apartments, 706 West Dixie Avenue, on a report of a man shot multiple times, just after 1 a.m., and found Jody L. Ross outside on the ground with “several” gunshot wounds. Ross was transported to UF Health Leesburg Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased, LPD Lt. Shannon Walsh said. LPD detectives are continuing the investigate the shooting, Walsh said. If you have information, call LPD detectives at 352-728-9862 or Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS. Crimeline callers can remain anonymous and may

Leesburg police identify man found shot multiple times Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / March 5, 2026

Man found shot multiple times; Leesburg police investigating

LEESBURG, Fla.— A man has died after being shot multiple times, Leesburg Police Department said Wednesday. Just after 1 a.m. Wednesday, LPD responded to Parkside Apartments, 706 West Dixie Avenue on a report of a man shot multiple times, LPD Lt. Shannon Walsh said. Officers arrived and found a 37-year-old white male outside on the ground with “several” gunshot wounds. He was transported to UF Health Leesburg Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased, Walsh said. The man’s name has not been released pending notification of next of kin. Walsh said detectives are interviewing residents and potential witnesses. If you have

Man found shot multiple times; Leesburg police investigating Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / March 4, 2026

Pair charged in deadly Leesburg park shooting

LEESBURG, Fla.— The two persons of interest in the murder of a Grand Island teen have been formally charged, according to Leesburg Police Department. D’Yuntre Wright has been charged with second degree murder and James Fenderson IV has been charged with principle to murder in the third degree and unlawful possession of a firearm by a delinquent, in the death of Juan Gomez Jr., LPD Lt. Shannon Walsh said. Gomez Jr., 18, of Grand Island, was found dead shortly before 1 p.m. Dec. 14, 2025 in a vehicle at Berry Park, 2121 Johns Avenue, after LPD responded to a report

Pair charged in deadly Leesburg park shooting Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / March 2, 2026

High fire danger Thursday, officials say

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.— Lake County is under a Red Flag Warning from 1 to 6 p.m. Thursday due to high fire danger conditions, according to Lake County Fire Rescue. Dry air, combined with strong winds and dry vegetation, can cause fires to spread and become dangerous quickly, LCFR said. They are asking residents to avoid outdoor burning and use caution with anything that could create sparks. LCFR is monitoring conditions closely, they said, and will provide updates as needed. If you see smoke or fire, call 911 immediately.

High fire danger Thursday, officials say Read More »

Around the County, Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / February 26, 2026

Second person of interest in deadly Leesburg park shooting now in custody

LEESBURG, Fla.— A second person of interest in the murder of Juan Gomez Jr.,  has been taken into custody, according to Leesburg Police Department. The U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force took  D’Yuntre Wright into custody late Thursday morning and detectives with LPD conducted interviews at the Orange County Jail, LPD said. Gomez Jr., 18, of Grand Island, was found dead shortly before 1 p.m. Dec. 14, 2025 in a vehicle at Berry Park, 2121 Johns Avenue, after LPD responded to a report of a shooting victim, LPD Chief Joe Iozzi said in December. After the murder, LPD quickly identified two

Second person of interest in deadly Leesburg park shooting now in custody Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / February 20, 2026

Pedestrian killed in Leesburg crash Friday

LEESBURG, Fla.— Leesburg Police Department is investigating a crash that killed a pedestrian and closed the southbound lanes of U.S. Highway 27 for three hours Friday night. Around 7 p.m., LPD responded to a report of a crash involving a pedestrian on U.S. Highway 27 and County Road 48, according to LPD Lt. Shannon Walsh. A white 2016 van driven by Ryan Surjan, 50, of Orlando, was traveling southbound on U.S. Highway 27 when it struck a Leesburg man attempting to cross the roadway, a preliminary investigation determined. “The pedestrian, a 53-year-old male from Leesburg, sustained life-threatening injuries and was

Pedestrian killed in Leesburg crash Friday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / February 7, 2026

Person of interest in deadly Leesburg park shooting taken into custody Thursday

LEESBURG, Fla.— Nearly two months after a Grand Island teen’s murder, Leesburg police have one person of interest in custody, but another remains on the run. According to Leesburg Police Department, the U.S. Marshal Fugitive Task Force took James Fenderson IV into custody early Thursday afternoon. Fenderson IV, is a “person of interest” in the murder of Juan Gomez Jr., 18, who was found dead shortly before 1 p.m. Dec. 14, 2025 in a vehicle at Berry Park, 2121 Johns Avenue, after LPD responded to a report of a shooting victim, LPD Chief Joe Iozzi said in December. Police continue

Person of interest in deadly Leesburg park shooting taken into custody Thursday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / February 5, 2026

Leesburg police arrest suspect in Eustis park stabbing, second violent attack

LEESBURG, Fla.— A man accused of stabbing a victim nine times at a Eustis park and later attacking another person in Leesburg has been arrested on multiple felony charges, including attempted murder and aggravated battery, police said. James Edward Thompson, 32, is being held at the Lake County Jail on no bond and is also facing charges of battery on a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest with violence.     Eustis incident  Shortly before 1 p.m. Tuesday, Eustis Police Department received a call in reference to a battery at Ferran Park. An unnamed witness said a man, later identified

Leesburg police arrest suspect in Eustis park stabbing, second violent attack Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / February 4, 2026

Missing woman found, Silver Alert canceled

Update: 10:30 p.m. Ann Vaida has been located safe. THE VILLAGES, Fla.—A Silver Alert has been issued for a 77-year-old woman of the Villages, according to Leesburg Police Department. Ann Vaida is described as 5 feet, 4 inches tall, weighs 130 pounds, and has brown hair and blue eyes. She was last seen in the 1000 block of Walsh Lane in The Villages and was wearing a jean jacket and black tights. She has a shunt on the back side of her head. Vaida may be traveling in a white Ford Fusion, license plate 76EIQZ. If you have information in

Missing woman found, Silver Alert canceled Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / February 2, 2026

FWC to host Open House on Harris Chain of Lakes later this month

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is scheduled to host an Open House on the Harris Chain of Lakes later this month. Scheduled for Jan. 28, visitors can stop by anytime between 3 and 7 p.m. at The Venetian Center, 1 Dozier Circle. Leesburg. FWC biologists will showcase a variety of research and management projects taking place throughout the Harris Chain of Lakes. Visitors can explore exhibits and speak directly with staff about fisheries management, aquatic plants, habitat restoration, hunting opportunities and more. “This open house is a great opportunity for the community to learn more about the

FWC to host Open House on Harris Chain of Lakes later this month Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / January 16, 2026

2 killed in Sumter County golf cart crash

SUMTER COUNTY, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a golf cart crash that killed two people Friday night. Around 9:30 p.m., a 64-year-old Lady Lake man was driving a golf cart westbound on County Road 109 and failed to stop at a red light at the intersection of U.S. Highway 27, FHP said. The golf cart collided with a Kia Soul that was traveling southbound on U.S. Highway 27 and overturned. The golf cart driver, and his passenger, a 58-year-old woman of The Villages, were transported to a local hospital, where they later succumbed to their injuries, according to FHP.

2 killed in Sumter County golf cart crash Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg / By / January 10, 2026

BREAKING NEWS: Santa Claus is coming to town

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—At press time Christmas Eve, the jolly fellow best known as Santa Claus was last spotted in the Czech Republic and had delivered nearly 4 billion gifts, according to the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD.) Girls and boys can track the big guy’s movements online as he makes his way across the world with his trusty reindeer crew, by visiting NORAD Tracks Santa. NORAD began tracking Santa in 1958 after taking over the duty from the U.S. Air Force.  

BREAKING NEWS: Santa Claus is coming to town Read More »

Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / December 24, 2025

Leesburg man killed, passenger airlifted after crashing into semi-trailer blocking roadway Monday

LEESBURG, Fla. — A Leesburg man was killed and his passenger seriously injured after the pickup truck they were in crashed into a semi-truck’s trailer as it backed into a private driveway before daybreak Monday, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly after 5:45 a.m., the 57-year-old man from Leesburg was driving a 2005 Ford F-150 southbound on County Road 473, near Lake Eustis Drive, when he struck the left side of the trailer of a 2016 semi-truck that was blocking the roadway while backing into a private driveway, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The Leesburg man was pronounced

Leesburg man killed, passenger airlifted after crashing into semi-trailer blocking roadway Monday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / December 22, 2025

Fatal crash closes CR 473 Monday morning

LEESBURG, Fla. — County Road 473 is shut down as the Florida Highway Patrol investigates a fatal crash that occurred shortly before 6 a.m. Monday. The crash at County Road 473 and Lake Eustis Drive involves a 2016 semi-truck and a 2005 Ford F-150. The driver of the F-150 was killed and had not been identified at press time, according to FHP. A passenger in the F-150 was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. The occupants of the semi-truck, a 67-year-old man and a 63-year-old man, both from Arkansas, were not injured.

Fatal crash closes CR 473 Monday morning Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / December 22, 2025

Police search for persons of interest in deadly Leesburg park shooting

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is on the hunt for two persons of interest in the death of a Grand Island teen Sunday. Tuesday, LPD released the names and photos of two people they are calling “persons of interest” in the shooting death of Juan Gomez Jr. “The Leesburg Police Department is actively seeking information regarding the whereabouts of James Fenderson IV and D’Yuntre Wright, who are persons of interest in an ongoing homicide investigation,” LPD Lt. Shannon Walsh said. Gomez, 18, was found dead shortly before 1 p.m. Sunday in a vehicle at Berry Park, 2121 Johns Avenue, after LPD

Police search for persons of interest in deadly Leesburg park shooting Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / December 16, 2025

Trial set to begin in ’24 murder of Leesburg store owner

TAVARES, Fla.—The trial of the man accused of killing a Leesburg store owner is scheduled to begin this week, according to court records. Alex Lopez, 26, is accused of gunning down Raied “Ray” Shihadeh, 51, during a robbery at Fast Stop Superette, 3702 Picciola Road, on May 30, 2024 and fleeing the scene. Shihadeh was airlifted to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, where he died from his injuries. Lopez, of Wildwood, was on the run for nearly a month after the murder, before being captured at a Kissimmee motel by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Violent Crimes Task Force.

Trial set to begin in ’24 murder of Leesburg store owner Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / December 15, 2025

Grand Island teen found shot to death in vehicle at Leesburg park Sunday

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is investigating the death of teenager found Sunday. LPD patrol officers responded to Berry Park on a report of a possible shooting victim, shortly before 1 p.m. Sunday, LPD Chief Joe Iozzi said. When they arrived, they found Juan Gomez, 18, of Grand Island, with at least one gunshot wound. Leesburg Fire Rescue and EMS responded, and Gomez was pronounced dead on the scene, Iozzi said. Crime scene investigators and LPD detectives responded and detectives are following up on leads. The West Leesburg Community Development Corporation released a statement Sunday. “We are aware of the situation

Grand Island teen found shot to death in vehicle at Leesburg park Sunday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / December 14, 2025

FHP continues to investigate Orange County hit-and-run crash that killed Leesburg man

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla.—The car believed to be involved in an Orange County hit-and-crash that killed a Leesburg man Monday night is in the custody of the Florida Highway Patrol, troopers said Saturday. A 36-year-old Orlando man was driving a 2003 Honda Accord eastbound in the center lane of Silver Star Road near Le Harve Boulevard when he struck a 33-year-old Leesburg man who was walking in the eastbound lanes around 11:15 p.m., FHP said. The Leesburg man was not in a marked crosswalk. The Orlando man stopped, and while he was assisting the Leesburg man, they were both struck by

FHP continues to investigate Orange County hit-and-run crash that killed Leesburg man Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / December 13, 2025

Man once declared insane arrested again after alleged Leesburg attack, police say

LEESBURG, Fla.—A man once cleared of an aggravated assault charge by reason of insanity is back behind bars after allegedly attacking a good Samaritan last week. Preston Wade Greenlee, 54, was arrested Wednesday, after Leesburg Police Department responded to a report of a physical altercation between two men at Palm Plaza on 14th Street around 4:30 pm. One of the men was described as a white male wearing a red and white plaid shirt, armed with a pair of scissors, according to an arrest affidavit. When LPD arrived, an officer found the victim, beaten and bloody, and a witness said

Man once declared insane arrested again after alleged Leesburg attack, police say Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / November 10, 2025

Need a warm place? Lake County opening cold weather shelter Monday

EUSTIS, Fla. — As cold weather moves into Central Florida, Lake County is preparing to open a shelter Monday night to help protect residents from the chilly temperatures. The shelter will open at 5 p.m. Monday, at LifePointe Church, 3551 East Orange Avenue, Eustis. Lake County Transit will provide free transportation via a fixed route (LakeXpress), paratransit (Lake County Connection), and a cold weather shelter shuttle. For information on LakeXpress’s Fixed Route Bus Service, call (352)742-1940. For information on Lake County’s Connection Paratransit Service, call 352-742-2612. The county will determine how long the shelter remains open based on weather conditions

Need a warm place? Lake County opening cold weather shelter Monday Read More »

Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / November 9, 2025

Lake County cities to honor Veterans with parades and ceremonies

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — Communities across Lake County will host a series of events in observance of Veterans Day, beginning Saturday with three parades and continuing Tuesday with two special ceremonies. CLERMONT The City of Clermont 2025 Veterans Day Celebration begins at 10 a.m. with a parade at 12th Street and Montrose Street, and ending at Waterfront Park with a car show, vendors, food trucks, music, guest speakers and a kids zone. A ceremony is scheduled for noon. EUSTIS The City of Eustis’ Salute to Veterans is an all-day event scheduled for Saturday at Ferran Park in Downtown Eustis. The

Lake County cities to honor Veterans with parades and ceremonies Read More »

Clermont, Eustis, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Mount Dora, Tavares / By / November 7, 2025

Collision with tow truck kills teen on Turnpike Saturday night

LEESBURG, Fla—A teenager was killed on Florida’s Turnpike Saturday after she hit a tow truck merging into traffic, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 18-year-old woman was driving a 2023 Ford Mustang Mach-E southbound, north of mile marker 291, when she hit the back of a 2024 Hino tow truck that was merging from the outside shoulder into the outside lane, around 9:45 p.m., FHP said. The impact killed the Southwest Ranches woman; the tow truck driver, a 53-year-old Ocala man, was not injured. Previous story: Two Deadly Crashes Close Major Roads near Groveland and Leesburg – Inside Lake

Collision with tow truck kills teen on Turnpike Saturday night Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / October 26, 2025

Two Deadly Crashes Close Major Roads near Groveland and Leesburg

LAKE COUNTY, Fla—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating two deadly crashes that completely shut down State Road 50 near Groveland and one lane of Florida’s Turnpike near Leesburg Saturday night. The first crash occurred around 9:45 p.m. Saturday, killing at least one person and shutting down the southbound right lane at mile marker 291 near Leesburg, according to FHP’s website. FHP is also investigating a fatal crash that occurred less than 30 minutes later on State Road 50 near Sloans Ridge Road, outside of Groveland, completely shutting down State Road 50. This is the second fatal crash in that area

Two Deadly Crashes Close Major Roads near Groveland and Leesburg Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / October 25, 2025

The Leesburg Blue Foundation Blue Runway 5K scheduled for Saturday night

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Leesburg Blue Foundation is gearing up for its one-of-a-kind Blue Runway 5K scheduled for Saturday night at Leesburg International Airport.  Participants can walk, jog or run on the airport’s runways while supporting the nonprofit organization that provides resources to support Leesburg Police Department. The race begins at 7 p.m., and all proceeds will benefit the Leesburg Blue Foundation, which is an independent nonprofit organization that provides resources to support Leesburg Police Department, LPD Lt. Shannon Walsh said last year. “The organization aims to help innovate and improve the quality of its services; build bridges with the community; and

The Leesburg Blue Foundation Blue Runway 5K scheduled for Saturday night Read More »

Leesburg, News Briefs / By / September 30, 2025

Boy, 8, airlifted after falling off pontoon boat Tuesday

LEESBURG, Fla.—An 8-year-old boy was airlifted after falling off a boat on Lake Harris, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC.) FWC and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded to single-vessel incident on Lake Harris Tuesday and found that the boy fell overboard from pontoon boat he was on with his family. He was airlifted to a local hospital for treatment, and the incident remains under investigation.

Boy, 8, airlifted after falling off pontoon boat Tuesday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / September 17, 2025

Technology leads police to suspect in Leesburg crash that injured woman last month

LEESBURG, Fla—A Wildwood man has been released on $25,000 bond after being arrested for fleeing a crash that left a woman with a severely broken leg last month. Freddie Southall III, 33, is accused of hitting a woman who ran into the roadway on Center Street, near North 15th Street on Aug. 27, and fleeing the scene, according to an arrest affidavit. Court records identify the woman as Massie Williams, 39. Following the hit-and-run, Leesburg Police Department located Williams at 3:22 a.m. and she was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center with a “severely” broken leg. Police found vehicle parts

Technology leads police to suspect in Leesburg crash that injured woman last month Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / September 16, 2025

FWC identifies boater found in Lake Harris Friday

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has identified the man found deceased in Lake Harris Friday. Thomas “Tommy” Griffin, of Leesburg took his jon boat out on Lake Harris Thursday night and it was discovered empty around 9 a.m. Friday, FWC Officer Chad Weber told Inside Lake Saturday.  FWC and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded to Singletary Park on South 14th Street in Leesburg and began searching for Griffin.  Around 7:30 pm. Friday, LCSO’s helicopter, Eagle One, found Griffin deceased, according to Weber. The incident remained under investigation Sunday and no other information has been released.

FWC identifies boater found in Lake Harris Friday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / September 14, 2025

Body recovered Friday after unattended boat found on Lake Harris

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is investigating the death of a man found in Lake Harris in Leesburg Friday. Around 9 a.m. Friday, someone reported finding an unattended boat, and FWC and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded and began searching, FWC Officer Chad Weber told Inside Lake. Authorities spent the day searching the area near Singletary Park on South 14th Street in Leesburg. Around 7:30 pm., LCSO’s helicopter, Eagle One, found the man deceased, according to Weber. The man’s name and cause of death have not been released, pending confirmation of notification of next of

Body recovered Friday after unattended boat found on Lake Harris Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / September 13, 2025

K9 Code is on the case: LCSO’s newest pup has a nose for electronics

TAVARES, Fla.—There’s a new pup strutting his stuff through Lake County, sniffing out electronics and working economic crimes, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Electric Detection K9 Code—pronounced “Cody” — a 2-year-old Labrador retriever, will be working alongside his handler, Investigator Dunn, in the Economic Crime Unit, specializing in cryptocurrency investigations, LCSO Public Information Officer Deputy Stephanie Earley said. “With a strong background in criminal investigations, Investigator Dunn took on the unique role of working with K9 Code,” Earley said. “Together, Investigator Dunn and K9 Code completed an intensive certification process, spending hundreds of hours side by side.” At

K9 Code is on the case: LCSO’s newest pup has a nose for electronics Read More »

Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / September 9, 2025

Eustis man sentenced to 15 years in prison in ‘23 drug trafficking case

TAVARES, Florida— A man arrested many times for multiple felonies but seldom convicted in past cases, was convicted of drug trafficking and sentenced to 15 years in prison stemming from a 2023 case, according to the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office. Emmanuel Cazeau, now 41, of Eustis, was pulled over in June 2023 by Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies for a minor traffic offense as he pulled out of Circle K, at the corner of County Road 44 and County Road 473 in unincorporated Leesburg, according to an arrest affidavit. Deputies asked for consent to search Cazeau’s vehicle, which

Eustis man sentenced to 15 years in prison in ‘23 drug trafficking case Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By / August 28, 2025

Leesburg schools locked down Thursday after report of “possibly” armed person

LEESBURG, Fla.—A report of person who was possibly armed locked down an elementary school and a middle school in Leesburg Thursday morning, according to Leesburg Police Department. Around 8:30 a.m., someone reported seeing an individual who was possibly armed near Leesburg Elementary School (LES) on South Street and officers were immediately dispatched to LES and nearby Oak Park Middle School, LPD said. Both schools were placed on lockdown and LPD and Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a thorough search of school grounds and the surrounding area, on foot and with the assistance of drones and LCSO’s helicopter, Eagle One.

Leesburg schools locked down Thursday after report of “possibly” armed person Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / August 28, 2025

Trenton Duckett candlelight vigil set for Wednesday

LEESBURG, Florida—Wednesday marks 19 years since Trenton Duckett was reported missing and his family once again will hold a candlelight vigil in his honor. The vigil is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Leesburg Town Square, 500 West Main Street, hosted by Trenton’s father Joshua, and his grandmother Carla Fort. Nineteen years ago, Leesburg and Lake County drew national attention when a mother embroiled in a divorce and custody dispute reported her toddler missing. In the two weeks after Trenton Duckett was reported missing, the case took dramatic turns as police found sonogram photos in a dumpster, accused his father of

Trenton Duckett candlelight vigil set for Wednesday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / August 26, 2025

Alleged Leesburg drunk driver returned to deadly scene by family member, FHP says

LEESBURG, Fla.— A elderly Leesburg man is dead, and another Leesburg man is facing charges in his death after a hit-and-run on Radio Road Monday night, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 9:10 p.m., Kevin Custer, 37, was driving a 2012 Toyota Tacoma northbound on Radio Road, approaching Patrick Drive, when he struck a 75-year-old man walking on Radio Road. Custer fled the scene, and the pedestrian was transported to UF Health Leesburg Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased, FHP said. Custer was returned to the scene by a family member and arrested for hit-and-run involving death and DUI

Alleged Leesburg drunk driver returned to deadly scene by family member, FHP says Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / August 19, 2025

Mount Dora woman killed in Leesburg crash

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Mount Dora woman was killed early Saturday morning after crashing into a tree, according to Leesburg Police Department. Just before 3:45 a.m., LPD responded to a report of a crash near the intersection of Main Street and Mike Street, and found Paulakay Gupton Dubose, 57, suffering from life-threatening injuries, Lt. Shannon Walsh said. Dubose was transported to UF Health Leesburg, where she died from her injuries. Police believe Dubose was traveling eastbound on Main Street in a 2024 blue Nissan when she left the roadway and struck a tree. The crash closed the westbound lanes of Main Street

Mount Dora woman killed in Leesburg crash Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Mount Dora / By / August 4, 2025

Leesburg teen killed, 3 teens in serious condition after early morning crash

DeLAND, Fla—A 17-year-old Leesburg girl was killed, and four other people are in serious condition after a pickup truck and car collided before daybreak Saturday in the DeLand area of Lake County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly before 4:15 a.m., a 43-year-old DeLand man was driving a 2011 Dodge Ram 1500 eastbound on State Road 44 when the front right of the truck struck the front right of a 2015 Dodge Charger traveling westbound near Tomahawk Trail. The sequence of events that led to the crash is still under investigation, Trooper Migdalisis Garcia said. The driver of the

Leesburg teen killed, 3 teens in serious condition after early morning crash Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / August 2, 2025

BREAKING NEWS: 911 down across Central Florida

Update: 911 services have been restored.  TAVARES, Fla.—The 911 system across Central Florida is down and residents are urged to use text to 911 to report an emergency. All emergency and non-emergency phone lines are down, officials said. Cell phone and landline calls were intermittent at press time and dispatchers are monitoring calls and attempting to return dropped or missed calls. The cause of the outage has not been released.

BREAKING NEWS: 911 down across Central Florida Read More »

Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / July 9, 2025

Leesburg shooting victim identified, suspect facing murder charges

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has identified the man shot and killed Friday night. Around 7 p.m., Dontae D. Copeland, 20, of Leesburg was found suffering from at least one gunshot wound in the 1000 block of Tuskegee Street, LPD Lt. Shannon Walsh said. Officers and EMS personnel rendered aid to Copeland, and he was transported to UF Health Leesburg Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. While investigating the murder Friday, Kameryn Pickard, 18, of Mount Dora, turned himself in with his father at LPD, Walsh said. He was later arrested for premeditated murder and conspiracy – solicit, and is being

Leesburg shooting victim identified, suspect facing murder charges Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Mount Dora / By / June 28, 2025

Father turns son in after man shot and killed in Leesburg Friday night

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story inaccurately stated Kameryn Pickard’s age due to incorrect information released by Leesburg Police Department. The story has been updated with Pickard’s correct age.  LEESBURG, Fla.—An 18-year-old Mount Dora man is facing charges for killing another man after his father turned him in to Leesburg police Friday. Leesburg Police Department responded to a shooting in the 1000 block of Tuskegee Street around 7 p.m. Friday. When officers arrived, they found a 20-year-old man shot and officers, along with EMS, rendered aid to the man. He was transported to UF Health Leesburg Hospital and

Father turns son in after man shot and killed in Leesburg Friday night Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Mount Dora / By / June 28, 2025

Leesburg man accused of uploading child pornography to social media, arrested and released

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Leesburg man has been released on $25,000 bond following an arrest by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) for possession of child pornography. FDLE began its investigation in November 2024 after receiving a cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Endangered Children (NCMEC) regarding an individual uploading child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) to a Snapchat account. The investigation identified Bautista as the owner of the email address attached to the account, according to FDLE. FDLE agents executed a search warrant at Bautista’s Leesburg home and seized multiple electronic devices. A consequent forensic analysis of the phone

Leesburg man accused of uploading child pornography to social media, arrested and released Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / May 23, 2025

Tavares cleaning company eases the burden for cancer patients

TAVARES, Fla.— A local cleaning company is continuing its mission of giving back to residents who are fighting cancer—and to them, the mission is personal. For the third year running, Bright Side Services Inc. of Tavares has partnered with Cleaning for a Reason, a non-profit organization that pairs residents who are undergoing cancer treatment with local cleaning companies that donate two free house cleaning sessions. Founded by Debbie Sardone of Buckets & Bows Maid Service in Texas, cleaning companies from across the country participate, including Tavares-based Bright Side Services Inc., owned by Michelle and Mike Krueger. They have participated in

Tavares cleaning company eases the burden for cancer patients Read More »

Eustis, Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Mount Dora, Tavares / By / May 19, 2025

Leesburg motorcyclist killed in hit-and-run crash in Minneola Saturday night

MINNEOLA, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is looking for the driver of a Chevy Tahoe that killed a motorcyclist late Saturday night and fled the scene, FHP said Sunday morning. Just before 10:45 p.m., a 36-year Leesburg woman on a 2009 Yamaha motorcycle was stopped at the traffic light in the inside lane at U.S. Highway 27 and Citrus Grove Road and a 2024 Honda HR-V, was southbound approaching the light, according to FHP. The light turned green, and the motorcycle started to proceed forward and the Honda swerved into the outside lane to avoid the motorcycle. A 2001 Chevy Tahoe

Leesburg motorcyclist killed in hit-and-run crash in Minneola Saturday night Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Minneola / By / May 11, 2025

Eustis bicyclist killed near Leesburg Sunday

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Eustis man was killed while riding a bicycle when he swerved in front of a pickup truck Sunday, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Just after 6:30 p.m., a 61-year-old Leesburg man was driving a 2020 Toyota Tacoma southbound on County Road 473 near Fountain Lake Boulevard in the Bassville Park area of Leesburg, when a 69-year-old man riding a bicycle northbound in the southbound lane, swerved in front of the truck, FHP said. The truck collided with the bicycle, and the Eustis man was pronounced deceased on the scene. The driver of the Tacoma was not injured.

Eustis bicyclist killed near Leesburg Sunday Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / May 4, 2025

6th Annual Lake County Back the Blue & Red Walk scheduled for Saturday

TAVARES, Fla.—For the sixth year running, public safety and its supporters will join forces for the annual Lake County Back the Blue & Red Walk. Scheduled for 9 a.m. Saturday at Wooton Park in Tavares, this is one of many law enforcement-related events around Lake County held in May during Law Enforcement Appreciation Month and last year, Organizer Shannon Cook added firefighters to the appreciation walk. The walk began in 2019 to show support for law enforcement during a time when the “defund the police” movement was making its way across the country, Cook said, representatives from several law enforcement

6th Annual Lake County Back the Blue & Red Walk scheduled for Saturday Read More »

Around the County, Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Features, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / May 7, 2025

Wrong way crash near Groveland kills Altamonte Springs woman, injures 2 Leesburg women

GROVELAND, Fla.—A woman driving the wrong way down U.S. Highway 27 was killed Wednesday and two other women were injured, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 9:45 p.m., a 30-year-old Altamonte Springs woman was driving a 2017 Dodge Charger southbound in the northbound inside lane north of Adkins Lane near Groveland when she struck a 2017 Toyota Corolla head-on. The Charger rotated clockwise, causing a 2016 Jeep Renegade to collide with the left side of the Charger. The driver of the Charger was pronounced deceased on the scene, the driver of the Corolla, a 45-year-old Leesburg woman, suffered minor

Wrong way crash near Groveland kills Altamonte Springs woman, injures 2 Leesburg women Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / April 24, 2025

FWC to host series of virtual public meetings on bear hunting proposals

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is holding a series of virtual public meetings to collect feedback directly from Florida residents on proposals for highly-regulated black bear hunting in Florida that will be presented to commissioners at FWC’s May meeting. The content covered in all meetings is identical, and it is not necessary to attend more than one virtual public meeting. The meeting dates and times are as follows: April 2 from noon to  3 p.m.: Virtual meeting via Zoom April 3 from 5 to 8 p.m.: Virtual meeting via Zoom April 5 from 9 a.m.to noon: Virtual meeting via Zoom

FWC to host series of virtual public meetings on bear hunting proposals Read More »

Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, News Briefs, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / March 19, 2025

Additional arrest made in 2024 Leesburg murder

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has made another arrest in the murder of a 20-year-old man last year. Neville G. Muirhead, 22, was arrested on Jacaranda Drive in Lady Lake by Leesburg Police Department with the assistance of Lady Lake Police Department and Mid Florida SWAT around 2 p.m. Tuesday, LPD Lt. Shannon Walsh said. “Detectives from the Leesburg Police Department have been diligently investigating this case, focusing on locating additional evidence and collaborating with the State Attorney’s Office,” Walsh said in an email. “Our detective division will continue to investigate this case and encourages the public to come forward with

Additional arrest made in 2024 Leesburg murder Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / March 19, 2025

Man arrested for crash that killed Leesburg man in 2023

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Leesburg man has been arrested in the death of a 94-year-old man killed in a crash in December 2023. Donald Urban Jass, also of Leesburg, was driving a 2015 Subaru Forester eastbound on Plantation Boulevard when a 2017 Chevy Malibu slammed into him at the intersection of U.S. Highway 27. The Malibu was traveling between 62 and 74 miles per hour at impact, and was traveling at 81 miles per hour just 1.5 seconds before the crash, the vehicle’s data later showed. The Malibu’s driver, Graedonn Humphrey, was southbound on U.S. Highway 27 when he ran the light

Man arrested for crash that killed Leesburg man in 2023 Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / March 18, 2025

Pedestrian killed near Leesburg Thursday morning

LEESBURG, Fla.—A pedestrian walking in the road was killed after a car hit her early Thursday morning, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 40-year-old Wildwood woman was walking in the eastbound lane of County Road 44 near Cypress Drive, outside of Leesburg, and was struck by a 2015 Ford Focus being driven by 69-year-old Leesburg man around 4:10 a.m.. The woman was transported to UF Health Leesburg Hospital, where she was pronounced deceased. The Leesburg man was not injured.

Pedestrian killed near Leesburg Thursday morning Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / March 6, 2025

Victim shot and robbed Sunday, Leesburg police searching for accused gunman

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is searching for a man it says robbed and shot someone Sunday night. Around 8 p.m., LPD responded to the 100 block of Truitt Street on a report of a shooting and found the 51-year-old victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body, LPD Lt. Shannon Walsh said. Police have not released the victim’s name or gender. The suspect fled the scene and police searched the area; Eagle One, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office helicopter, assisted in the search, but law enforcement was unable to locate him. The victim was transported to an area

Victim shot and robbed Sunday, Leesburg police searching for accused gunman Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / February 17, 2025

Summerfield man facing murder charges in deaths of victim and alleged accomplice in 2022 gunfight outside Leesburg

LEESBURG, Fla.—A man on the run for nearly a year is in custody facing murder charges in the deaths of his intended home invasion victim – and his alleged accomplice. Dieuseul Charlemon, 22, was taken into custody on multiple warrants including first- and second-degree murder on Jan. 31 by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Ocala Police Department and US Marshals at 10131 SE 169th Lane, Summerfield after a months-long investigation, MCSO said. On Feb. 16, 2022, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded to 804 Montclair Road in unincorporated Leesburg on a report of a shooting around 4:30 a.m. There were

Summerfield man facing murder charges in deaths of victim and alleged accomplice in 2022 gunfight outside Leesburg Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / February 12, 2025

Charge dismissed against dentist in 2023 golf course altercation, “Stand Your Ground” motion granted

TAVARES, Fla.—An aggravated battery charge a Leesburg dentist was facing has been dismissed after a Lake County Circuit judge granted a motion, based on Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law filed by his defense attorney last year. Dr. Eddie Orobitg was arrested following an altercation on the Harbor Hills golf course in unincorporated Leesburg in April 2023, accused of beating another man with a golf club. The altercation began when Orobitg yelled at Dr. Joseph Sivak and his wife as they walked on the 11th fairway, approximately 60 yards away from where Orobitg was golfing with his minor son, according to

Charge dismissed against dentist in 2023 golf course altercation, “Stand Your Ground” motion granted Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By / February 7, 2025

Mount Dora man killed in single-vehicle Tavares crash

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is investigating after a man was found deceased in his crashed vehicle by a passerby early Wednesday morning. At 12:50 a.m., a 911 caller reported he was walking and saw overturned truck in an open construction field in the area of Dead River Road and Sierra Drive approximately 50 yards from the roadway. Police are unsure how long the 2018 Chevrolet pickup truck was there before it was discovered, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said, and are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash to contact them. The driver, Michael Winterbottom, 63, of Mount

Mount Dora man killed in single-vehicle Tavares crash Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Mount Dora, Tavares / By / February 6, 2025

Motorcyclist and passenger fighting for their lives after Tavares crash Friday morning

TAVARES, Fla.—A motorcyclist and his passenger are fighting for their lives after crashing into the back of a pickup truck Friday morning, according to Tavares Police Department. According to witnesses, shortly before 9:30 a.m., a 61-year-old Tavares man driving a white 2015 Chevy Silverado was on State Road 19 southbound stopped at the light at Dead River Road.  A 74-year-old man, who has a home in Leesburg and Michigan, was riding a 2003 Harley-Davidson motorcycle southbound on State Road 19 and failed to slow as he approached the light, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said. The motorcycle slammed into

Motorcyclist and passenger fighting for their lives after Tavares crash Friday morning Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Tavares / By / January 31, 2025

Purple Alert canceled, missing man found in Leesburg

Update: 9:45 p.m. Mark Lang has been found safe at Gateway Plaza in Leesburg, according to LPD. Lt. Shannon Walsh.  LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing man. A Purple Alert has been issued for Mark Lang, 64,  who is described as a white male, 125 pounds, 5 feet, 11 inches tall, with gray hair and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing a blue shirt with a fishing design, black dress pants and black Skechers shoes. He walks with a stagger that may cause him to drag his legs. Lang may be driving

Purple Alert canceled, missing man found in Leesburg Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / January 26, 2025

Pedestrian hit by tractor-trailer on US 27 in Leesburg Monday night

LEESBURG, Fla.—A pedestrian has died from injuries he sustained after he was hit by a tractor-trailer in Leesburg Monday night. The pedestrian, a 34-year-old male of Leesburg, who has not been identified pending notification of next of kin, was struck crossing U.S. Highway 27 near County Road 48, by a red 2024 International tractor-trailer being driven southbound by Daniel Morales-Barrios, 34, of Davenport, Leesburg Police Department Lt. Shannon Walsh said. The crash closed U.S. Highway 27 for nearly three hours. The Leesburg man sustained life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center, where he died, according to Walsh.

Pedestrian hit by tractor-trailer on US 27 in Leesburg Monday night Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / January 21, 2025

One dead, one injured in early morning crash near Leesburg

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that killed a man outside of Leesburg early Sunday morning. A 26-year-old man of Puerto Rico was driving a 2024 Chevy Malibu eastbound on County Road 48 approaching County Road 33, shortly before 2:30 a.m. He ran the stop sign at County Road 33, went off the roadway, became airborne over a ditch, struck a tree and overturned, FHP said. The driver suffered minor injuries and was transported to UF Health Leesburg Hospital; his passenger, a 41-year-old male, also of Puerto Rico was also transported and pronounced deceased. The crash remains

One dead, one injured in early morning crash near Leesburg Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / January 19, 2025

Leesburg High freshman arrested after loaded gun found in backpack

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Leesburg High School freshman was arrested for possessing a loaded, stolen gun Thursday after a Lake County Sheriff’s Office vape-detection dog alerted on the student’s backpack. K9 Samba and her handler Erica Samborski assisted Leesburg Police Department school resource officers with a prescheduled visit to LHS for a routine check for contraband and illegal items. Samba alerted on a backpack in the media room where students often leave their belongings, according to LCSO. No students were present at the time of the search and after Samba’s alert, the backpack was searched and a loaded 9mm Glock was found.

Leesburg High freshman arrested after loaded gun found in backpack Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / January 16, 2025

CR 439 shut down near Eustis as FHP investigates fatal crash involving dump truck

EUSTIS, Fla.—An Altoona woman was killed Tuesday morning after a dump truck veered into her lane and slammed into her head-on outside of Eustis, shutting down County Road 439. Just before 8:30 a.m., a 1994 dump truck was northbound on County Road 439, when the driver, a 28-year-old Leesburg man, attempted to brake for traffic stopped ahead near County Road 44A. He veered into the southbound lane and hit a 2019 Toyota Corolla head-on. The driver of the Toyota, a 23-year-old Altoona woman, was transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares, where she was pronounced deceased. The Leesburg man was not

CR 439 shut down near Eustis as FHP investigates fatal crash involving dump truck Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / January 14, 2025

Cold weather shelter and warming station scheduled to open this week

EUSTIS, Fla.—A cold weather shelter and warming station are scheduled to open this week in anticipation of colder temperatures, officials with Lake County government announced late Monday morning. According to the U.S. National Weather Service, lows in Lake County are expected to be between 33 and 38 degrees between 3 a.m. and 9 a.m. Tuesday. The cold weather shelter is scheduled to be open from 5 p.m. to 7.a.m. Monday through Friday at LifePointe Church, 2551 East Orange Avenue, Eustis; and the Salvation Army will open a warming station from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 2605 South

Cold weather shelter and warming station scheduled to open this week Read More »

Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / January 6, 2025

BREAKING NEWS: Santa Claus is coming to town

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—At press time Christmas Eve, the jolly fellow best known as Santa Claus was last spotted in Lithuania and had delivered more than 3 billion gifts, according to the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD.) Little boys and girls can track the big guy’s movements online as he makes his way across the world with his trusty reindeer crew, by visiting NORAD Tracks Santa. NORAD began tracking Santa in 1958 after taking over the duty from the U.S. Air Force.

BREAKING NEWS: Santa Claus is coming to town Read More »

Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / December 24, 2024

Head-on collision kills Leesburg woman Monday

GROVELAND, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that killed a Leesburg woman and seriously injured a Mascotte woman Monday afternoon. Shortly before 12:15 p.m., a 36-year-old Leesburg woman was driving a 2008 Chevrolet HHR southbound on County Road 33 near Soto Road in unincorporated Groveland when she failed to maintain her lane and hit and 2015 Ford Fusion being driven by a 43-year-old Mascotte woman, head-on, seriously injuring her. Both drivers were transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center, where the Leesburg woman succumbed to her injuries. The crash closed County Road 33 for nearly seven hours.

Head-on collision kills Leesburg woman Monday Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Mascotte, Unincorporated Lake / By / December 17, 2024

Ocala woman, 25, dies after crashing into pond near Leesburg

LEESBURG, Fla.—An Ocala woman was found dead Monday morning in a retention pond, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The woman, 25, was traveling northbound on County Road 452 in a 2019 Dodge Challenger when she ran of the right side of the road, hit a pole, crashed through a chain link fence and drove into a retention pond, fully submerging the car. The pond is located at Lake Yale Baptist Conference Center, 39034 County Road 452, Leesburg. “The exact time of the crash is under investigation,” Trooper Migdalisis Garcia said. FHP responded to the scene around 8 a.m. Monday

Ocala woman, 25, dies after crashing into pond near Leesburg Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / November 18, 2024

Vehicle found in pond Monday morning in unincorporated Leesburg, one confirmed fatality, FHP says

Update: Ocala woman, 25, dies after crashing into pond near Leesburg – Inside Lake LEESBURG, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating after a deceased person was found in vehicle at the bottom of a pond Monday morning. The vehicle was found in a small pond at Lake Yale Baptist Conference Center, 39034 County Road 452, Leesburg around 7:45 a.m. Monday. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team is on scene and assisting FHP with recovery, LCSO Cpl. Chanel Martin told Inside Lake. Inside Lake was on the scene and a large portion of fence was broken in front of the

Vehicle found in pond Monday morning in unincorporated Leesburg, one confirmed fatality, FHP says Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / November 18, 2024

Police: Leesburg High principal arrested for DUI, refused breath test

CLERMONT, Fla.—A Lake County Schools principal is facing a DUI charge after a Clermont Police Department officer pulled him over for failing to maintain his lane, according to an arrest affidavit. Michael Randolph, 38, principal of Leesburg High School, was spotted by CPD swerving and speeding on State Road 50 near Citrus Tower Boulevard in a white pickup truck shortly before 2 a.m. Saturday and officers pulled Randolph over less than three miles from his home. He provided his driver license and when asked for his registration and proof of insurance, he provided his registration and then handed an officer

Police: Leesburg High principal arrested for DUI, refused breath test Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / October 28, 2024

Leesburg shooting victim, 87, dies, 2 arrested for murder

LEESBURG, Fla.—The 87-year-old victim of a shooting in late September has died and two Leesburg men have been arrested for his murder, according to Leesburg Police Department. Clarence Ervin, 87, of Leesburg was shot shortly before 2:45 p.m. Sept. 28, at 2101 West Main Street, as he sat in a car at a gas pump, video released by LPD showed. Ervin was transported to an area hospital and later died from his injuries on Oct. 6, LPD Lt. Shannon Walsh said. On Friday, Kenneth D. Bailey, 22, and Craig A. Stevenson Jr., 22, were arrested on charges of capital murder and

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Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / October 14, 2024

Leesburg police release videos of suspects in shooting of man, 87

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

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Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / September 30, 2024

Leesburg police searching for suspects in shooting of 87-year-old victim

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

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Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / September 29, 2024

Lake County prepares for Helene

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   Closures: Butler Street Boat Ramp, 55400 Butler Street, Astor, 5 a.m. Wednesday City of Eustis, Thursday City of Groveland, Thursday Lake County Board of County Commissioners,

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Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / September 25, 2024

BREAKING NEWS: Lake County Schools closed Thursday

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.

BREAKING NEWS: Lake County Schools closed Thursday Read More »

Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / September 24, 2024

Leesburg police make arrest in July murder

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has made an arrest in the murder of a 20-year-old man in July. Ondrique D. Mosely, 18, of Lady Lake was arrested Friday without incident in Lady Lake for principal to homicide- premediated, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. He is being held on no bond. James Jordan was found lying in the yard of a home in the 2200 block of Aitken Loop in Overlook at Lake Griffin around 2:30 p.m. July 8 suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to UF Health Leesburg, where he died from his injuries, Walsh said in July. LPD

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Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / September 4, 2024

The Leesburg Blue Foundation Blue Runway 5K slated for next month, registration promo code available for Inside Lake readers

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Leesburg Blue Foundation is gearing up for its one-of-a-kind Blue Runway 5K scheduled for Sept. 21.  Participants can walk, jog or run on Leesburg International Airport’s runways while supporting the nonprofit organization that provides resources to support Leesburg Police Department. Race day registration begins at 7 a.m., followed by the race at 8 a.m. Participants will start at the taxiway intersection Alpha 4, Leesburg International Airport, 8807 Airport Boulevard, Leesburg and will receive a t-shirt and finisher medal “All proceeds will benefit the Leesburg Blue Foundation, which is an independent nonprofit organization that provides resources to support, assist

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Leesburg, News Briefs / By / August 30, 2024

Girlfriend of accused murderer turns herself in

LEESBURG, Fla.—Kaili Dupuis, the girlfriend of accused murderer Alex Lopez, is in custody after turning herself in at the Lake County Jail Tuesday, Leesburg Police Department Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. Dupuis, 25, turned herself in Tuesday afternoon after being wanted by LPD for less than a week. Dupuis is accused of helping Lopez dodge law enforcement after a warrant was issued for his arrest for the tragic murder of Raied “Ray” Shihadeh, 51, May 30 at Fast Stop Superette on Picciola Road in Leesburg. Shihadeh was killed on his daughter’s 16th birthday. Lopez’ mother, Patricia Kinchens, 43, and his sister,

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Eustis, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / August 28, 2024

Mom and sister of accused Leesburg murderer arrested, girlfriend wanted by police

LEESBURG, Fla.—The mother and sister of accused murderer Alex Lopez were arrested Thursday for their role in helping Lopez elude capture, and Lopez’ girlfriend is on the run. Patricia Kinchens, 42, and Breanna Lopez, 27, were taken into custody by Leesburg Police Department, with assistance from Lady Lake Police Department and Wildwood Police Department, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. Lopez’ girlfriend Kaili E. Dupuis, 25, remains wanted. Alex Lopez, 25, is facing charges of premeditated murder, armed robbery and two other weapons offenses; he is accused of gunning down father of five, Raied “Ray” Shihadeh, 51, at Fast Stop Superette,

Mom and sister of accused Leesburg murderer arrested, girlfriend wanted by police Read More »

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg / By / August 22, 2024

Suspect casually strolls away from stolen ambulance, quickly apprehended by deputies (video)

TAVARES, Fla.—A Leesburg man remains in the Lake County Jail, accused of stealing an ambulance from a Leesburg hospital last week. Derek Tyrone Watkins, 22, was apprehended near Independence Boulevard in Groveland by Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies casually strolling away from the ambulance early Friday morning, dash cam video obtained by Inside Lake shows. According to an arrest affidavit, Watkins stole the fully-stocked ambulance from the emergency bay at UF Health Leesburg Hospital, 600 East Dixie Avenue, Leesburg, while a paramedic from Sumter County cleaned off a stretcher inside the hospital after dropping off a patient around 2:30 a.m.

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Groveland, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / August 22, 2024

Leesburg man uninjured in fatal Hillsborough County pedestrian crash

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla.—A Tampa man has died after running in front of a truck being driven by a Leesburg man Sunday morning in Hillsborough County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 31-year-old Leesburg man was driving a GMC Sierra westbound on State Road 674 east of 30th Street Southeast in the Ruskin area when a 34-year-old Tampa man ran across the highway and was struck by the Sierra shortly after midnight, FHP Sgt. Steve Gaskins said. The Tampa man was transported to a local hospital, where he died from his injuries. The Leesburg man was not injured.

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Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / August 18, 2024

LCSO Master Deputy Bradley Link to be honored with run Wednesday night

TAVARES, Fla.—Lake County Sheriff’s Office Master Deputy Bradley Link is scheduled to be honored Wednesday night by a young man who will run his 1,550th mile in support of fallen first responders. Zechariah Cartledge founded Running 4 Heroes Inc., a non-profit organization in 2019, to raise funds for fallen first responders. Cartledge is scheduled to run the mile at 8 p.m. Wednesday, at Tavares Middle School, 13032 Lane Park Cutoff Road, Tavares. Attendees are asked to arrive between 7 and 7:30 p.m.

LCSO Master Deputy Bradley Link to be honored with run Wednesday night Read More »

Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / August 14, 2024

Pedestrian killed attempting to cross Sumter County road Wednesday

SUMTER COUNTY, Fla.—A pedestrian attempting to cross a road was killed Wednesday morning when she was struck by a vehicle, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 77-year-old woman, of The Villages, was attempting to cross Old Mill Run near Buena Vista Boulevard when she was struck by a Toyota Corolla being driven eastbound by a 23-year-old Leesburg woman shortly before 7:15 a.m., FHP Sgt. Steve Gaskins said. The pedestrian was transported to a local hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.

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Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / August 14, 2024

VIDEO: Hundreds of people line U.S. Highway 27 in support of fallen deputy Monday morning

LEESBURG, Fla.—Hundreds of residents, law enforcement officers and firefighters lined U.S. Highway 27 to pay their respects and show their support for Master Deputy Bradley Link and his coworkers at the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Monday morning. Residents stood in the rain along the 15-mile trek from Leesburg to Minneola, waving flags and saluting Link as he was transported to the funeral home handling his arrangements, bringing tears to the eyes of deputies and residents alike.  

VIDEO: Hundreds of people line U.S. Highway 27 in support of fallen deputy Monday morning Read More »

Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / August 5, 2024

BREAKING NEWS: 911 down in Lake County

TAVARES, Fla.—Lake County Public Safety Communications (911) is experiencing intermittent outages due to Hurricane Debby. Residents may not be able to reach dispatchers in an emergency. If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, call the non-emergency number at 352-343-2101.

BREAKING NEWS: 911 down in Lake County Read More »

Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / August 5, 2024

Fallen deputy to be transported Monday morning

LEESBURG, Fla.—Lake County Sheriff’s Office fallen deputy Bradley Link will be transported to the funeral home handling his arrangements Monday morning. Link will be escorted by his unit, LCSO Agriculture and Marine, from the Medical Examiner’s Office in Leesburg at 10 a.m. Monday. The public may show their support for Link and LCSO by standing anywhere along U.S. Highway 27, south of Dixie Avenue in Leesburg to the city limits of Minneola.

Fallen deputy to be transported Monday morning Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Minneola, Unincorporated Lake / By / August 4, 2024

Leesburg police release identity of man found dead near Ski Beach Monday

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has released the name of the man found dead near Ski Beach Monday night. Lucious W. Austin, 67, was spotted in Lake Harris near Ski Beach Bar and Grill around 7:15 p.m. and LPD, along with Leesburg Fire Department and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Underwater Search and Recovery Team responded to the scene and recovered Austin, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. Austin was turned over to the medical examiner (ME) and the preliminary investigation does not indicate foul play, Walsh said. LPD is still awaiting the ME’s final report and said Tuesday the department was

Leesburg police release identity of man found dead near Ski Beach Monday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / July 17, 2024

Leesburg police investigating possible drowning

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is investigating after a man’s body was found floating in Lake Harris near Ski Beach Monday night. The man’s body was spotted near Ski Beach Bar and Grill around 7:15 p.m. and Leesburg Fire Department (LFD) responded with its boat, along with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Underwater Search and Recovery Team. The man’s body was recovered, and he was turned over to the medical examiner’s office to determine cause of death, but police believe it may have been a drowning, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. Police have identified the man, described as a 67-year-old black

Leesburg police investigating possible drowning Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / July 16, 2024

Vehicle believed to be involved in Leesburg murder found, detectives actively working the case

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has located a vehicle believed to be involved in the murder of a 20-year-old man Monday. James Jordan was found lying in the yard of a home in the 2200 block of Aitken Loop in Overlook at Lake Griffin around 2:30 p.m. Monday suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to UF Health Leesburg, where he died from his injuries, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. LPD located and seized the vehicle believed to be involved, and executed search warrants on the vehicle and the location it was recovered from, Walsh said. LPD has not released

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Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / July 12, 2024

Man dies after being found with multiple gunshot wounds in Leesburg yard

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is investigating after a 20-year-old man was found suffering from multiple gunshot wounds Monday afternoon. LPD responded to Aitkin Loop in Overlook at Lake Griffin around 2:30 p.m. Monday in reference to a shooting and found James Jordan in the front yard of a home in the 2200 block, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. Officers rendered aid to Jordan until EMS and Leesburg Fire Department arrived and Jordan was transported to UF Health Leesburg, where he succumbed to his injuries. LPD set up a perimeter and utilized a K9 unit and

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Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / July 8, 2024

Accused murderer back in Lake County

TAVARES, Fla.—The man police believe is responsible for the murder of a Leesburg store owner was booked into the Lake County Jail Friday morning. Alex Lopez, 25, is facing charges of premeditated murder, armed robbery and two other weapons offenses, and is being held on no bond. Lopez was on the run for nearly a month, while Leesburg Police Department worked with state, federal and local agencies to track him down and finally located him at a motel in Kissimmee around 7 p.m. Wednesday, Leesburg Police Department Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. He was taken into custody by the FDLE/Orlando –

Accused murderer back in Lake County Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By / June 28, 2024
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