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Suspected dog fighter arrested; 29 dogs found at east Lake County home

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story misstated Jason Biggers’ bond and did not list two charges because he had not completed the booking process. The story has been updated with the correct information.  DeLAND, Fla.—A suspected dog fighter has been arrested and is facing 29 counts of animal cruelty and 29 counts baiting and fighting animals following the execution of search warrant by the Lake County Sheriff’s office Agriculture and Marine Unit early Wednesday morning. Deputies arrived at the home at 31938 3rd Avenue in the DeLand area of Lake County shortly after 4:45 a.m. and found 29 […]

Suspected dog fighter arrested; 29 dogs found at east Lake County home Read More »

Babysitter jailed after leaving baby in scorching Eustis parking lot

EUSTIS, Fla.—A babysitter accused of leaving the infant she was caring for in a Eustis parking lot has been released from jail on $2,000 bond. Wendy Michelle Kirk, 46, was arrested after someone reported a baby was left unattended in a car seat in the parking lot of Martial Arts World, 284 West Ardice Avenue, Eustis, around 4:10 p.m. Thursday, according to an arrest affidavit. When Eustis Police Department arrived on scene, a witness told officers Kirk dropped off another child at the business around 3:30 p.m. She returned about 30 minutes later, picked up several children, and left. After

Babysitter jailed after leaving baby in scorching Eustis parking lot Read More »

Father of Eustis boy, 5, who shot himself last month, facing charges

EUSTIS, Fla.—The father of the young boy who found a gun under a pillow and shot himself last month has turned himself in after a warrant was issued for his arrest. Dexter Demond Neal, who has cooperated with the investigation, turned himself in early Sunday evening at the Lake County Jail on a warrant for child neglect and culpable negligence and is being held on no bond, Eustis Police Department Chief Craig Capri told Inside Lake. Inside Lake was the first to report Neal’s son shot himself in the head after finding an unsecured firearm June 29 at his home

Father of Eustis boy, 5, who shot himself last month, facing charges Read More »

Eustis honors longtime resident and volunteer with “Pat Davis Day”

EUSTIS, Fla.—A longtime volunteer who has helped keep the Lake Eustis shoreline clean for nearly half a decade was honored Friday after Eustis Mayor Willie Hawkins proclaimed July 7, “Pat Davis Day.” With Lake Eustis in the background, Hawkins read Davis the proclamation Friday, accompanied by Vice-Mayor Gary Ashcraft and City Manager Tom Carrino, recognizing Davis’ efforts with CleanUp Eustis. Volunteers were also in attendance for the celebration. Davis, 95, and a resident of Eustis for 47 years, has volunteered with CleanUp Eustis for more than four years, CleanUp Eustis Founder Christine Cruz said, “She’s become a living example of

Eustis honors longtime resident and volunteer with “Pat Davis Day” Read More »

Fatal crash closes CR 439 near Eustis Friday

EUSTIS, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol in investigating a crash that killed a Eustis man Friday afternoon. According to FHP, a 2013 Freightliner tractor-trailer being driven by a 78-year-old Orlando man was westbound on County Road 44A when it collided with a Dodge Ram just after 2 p.m. A witness told troopers the Freightliner ran the red light to turn left on County Road 439, in the direct path of a 56-year-old Eustis man driving the Dodge. The Eustis man was transported to HCA Lake Monroe Hospital in Sanford, where he was pronounced deceased. The Orlando man was transported to AdventHealth

Fatal crash closes CR 439 near Eustis Friday Read More »

LCSO: “Pastor Pete” strikes again

UMATILLA, Fla.— A local man well-known in the community and to law enforcement has been arrested again, accused of battering an elderly woman at a group home in unincorporated Umatilla. Earlier this month, Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a group home in unincorporated Umatilla on a report of a sex offense complaint but the incident was later was found to be a battery, according to a probable cause affidavit. For safety reasons, the responding deputy transported two women, one a victim and the other a witness, to Umatilla Police Department to be interviewed. During the interview, both women

LCSO: “Pastor Pete” strikes again Read More »

Name of hit-and-run victim released, Tavares police still investigating

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department has released the name of the man killed in a hit-and-run crash Sunday night. Frank Carrasquillo, 49, was riding a bicycle when he was hit and killed shortly before 9 p.m. Sunday night in the 600 block of East Alfred Street, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake. The driver fled the scene. Police are asking anyone with information or surveillance footage to call TPD’s non-emergency number at 352-343-2101, option 4.

Name of hit-and-run victim released, Tavares police still investigating Read More »

Tavares police investigating hit-and-run that killed bicyclist Sunday night

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is investigating a crash that killed a man on Alfred Street Sunday. TPD responded to the 600 block of East Alfred Street at 8:50 p.m. and found a bicyclist suffering from injuries sustained in a hit-and-run, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake. The bicyclist succumbed to his injuries, and his name has not been released pending notification of next of kin, Sullivan said. Investigators are continuing to canvass the area for witnesses and video, Sullivan said. If you have information or surveillance footage, call TPD’s non-emergency number at 352-343-2101, option 4.

Tavares police investigating hit-and-run that killed bicyclist Sunday night Read More »

More details released in deputy-involved shooting, suspect has history of domestic violence

DeLAND, Fla.—The suspect shot by Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies Tuesday night pointed a rifle at deputies before he was shot, according to LCSO. Around 8:10 p.m., LCSO responded to a domestic battery at 31801 Division Street in the DeLand area of Lake County. A woman reported her husband, Harold Malcolm Hughes, 62, was drunk and threw a hot coffee pot at her. The victim was able to escape the home and spoke with deputies at an undisclosed location near her home, LCSO said. Deputies went to the home to attempt to speak with Hughes, who exited the residence holding

More details released in deputy-involved shooting, suspect has history of domestic violence Read More »

Officials on scene of deputy-involved shooting in east Lake County

DeLAND, Fla.—Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies are on the scene of a deputy-involved shooting that occurred in the DeLand area of Lake County around 9 p.m. Tuesday. Limited information was released late Tuesday night; LCSO Deputy Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake no deputies were injured in the shooting on Division Street, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement will be investigating the shooting, which is standard procedure in deputy-involved shootings. More information is expected to be released Wednesday.

Officials on scene of deputy-involved shooting in east Lake County Read More »

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 »

Truck set ablaze after fatal crash, Eustis man turns himself in to troopers

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla.—A Eustis man is behind bars in Orange County after fleeing a crash that killed an Orlando bicyclist Monday. Around 9:15 a.m., Jermaine Williams, 42, was driving a Dodge Ram southbound on South Orange Blossom Trail in Orange County and failed to stop for a bicyclist traveling westbound in the crosswalk at 43rd Street. The Dodge struck the 43-year-old bicyclist, and he was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center and pronounced deceased, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Williams fled the scene and Orange County Sheriff’s Office deputies soon located the Dodge on fire behind a nearby business.

Truck set ablaze after fatal crash, Eustis man turns himself in to troopers Read More »

14-year-old boy shot in Eustis Sunday, police investigating

EUSTIS, Fla.—Eustis Police Department is investigating a shooting that sent a teenager to the hospital by helicopter Sunday night. According to a heavily-redated report, around 8:45 p.m., EPD responded to a report of a 14-year-boy who had been shot on Hazzard Avenue. As officers arrived, a woman flagged officers down and said the teen was inside a home, suffering from a gunshot wound. Police entered the home and found the boy lying on his back with a gunshot wound to his inner thigh, according to a report. An officer rendered aid, applied pressure to the wound until Lake EMS arrived

14-year-old boy shot in Eustis Sunday, police investigating Read More »

BREAKING NEWS: 3 airlifted, one transported by ground after Eustis crash Monday morning

EUSTIS, Fla.—Three people were airlifted to area hospitals, and one person was transported by ground following a crash at State Road 44 and the Eustis bypass near the Eleven Oaks subdivision, shortly before 7:30 a.m. Monday morning, according to Eustis Police Department. A witness told police a gold Dodge Ram had a green arrow and was turning westbound onto State Road 44/Orange Avenue from the Eleven Oaks subdivision when a red and white Ford F-150 traveling eastbound ran the light and collided with the Dodge. Three occupants in the Dodge were transported to area hospitals, two males of Eustis, aged

BREAKING NEWS: 3 airlifted, one transported by ground after Eustis crash Monday morning Read More »

Collision with truck kills Sorrento motorcyclist Wednesday

SORRENTO, Fla. —A Sorrento man was killed early Wednesday evening after a pickup truck turned in front of him, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 65-year-old man was riding a 2001 Yamaha motorcycle eastbound on State Road 46, also known as Sorrento Avenue, when a 49-year-old Apopka man driving a 2020 Chevy Silverado attempted to make a left turn into a parking lot near 4th Street. The front of the motorcycle collided with the Silverado and the impact killed the motorcyclist just after 6 p.m., FHP said. The driver of the Silverado was not injured.

Collision with truck kills Sorrento motorcyclist Wednesday Read More »

Eustis boy, 5, accidentally shoots himself Sunday, in stable condition

EUSTIS, Fla.—A Eustis boy is in stable condition after accidentally shooting himself in the head Sunday morning. Around 9:15 a.m. Sunday, Eustis Police Department, Eustis Fire Department, Lake County Fire Rescue, Lake County Sheriff’s Office and Lake EMS quickly responded to the home on Hunter’s Trail and after the boy was stabilized, he was airlifted to an Orlando hospital by Air Care Team, EPD Chief Craig Capri said. The boy’s name has not been released, and Capri said the investigation is still very active. The boy had surgery on Sunday and is now recovering. “Our prayers are with the boy

Eustis boy, 5, accidentally shoots himself Sunday, in stable condition Read More »

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 »

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 »

Umatilla woman killed in early morning Marion County crash

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story misidentified the crash victim’s gender due to incorrect information released by the Florida Highway Patrol. The story has been updated with the correct information.  MARION COUNTY, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that killed a 41-year-old Umatilla woman Friday morning. Shortly before 2:45 a.m. the woman was driving eastbound on County Road 42 when she failed to negotiate a curve near Southeast 258th Avenue Road in the Umatilla area of Marion County. The car left the roadway and struck a sign, a fence and a tree on the south shoulder.

Umatilla woman killed in early morning Marion County crash Read More »

Knife-wielding man shot at Mount Dora bus stop Thursday

MOUNT DORA, Fla.— A Winter Park man, arrested multiple times in Lake County, was shot in the leg at a Mount Dora bus stop Thursday morning and arrested, after accosting a man who first pepper-sprayed him, according to a report. William Tyler Barrett, 29, is facing a charge of aggravated assault on a person over 65 years old and is being held on $10,000 bond. Curtis Roberson, 67, of Eustis, told Mount Dora Police Department he was leaving the parking lot of Walmart Supercenter, 17030 U.S. Highway 441, around 10 a.m. when Barrett approached him and made a comment he

Knife-wielding man shot at Mount Dora bus stop Thursday Read More »

Deputies break up large party outside Eustis Thursday night

EUSTIS, Fla.—Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies and surrounding law enforcement agencies broke up a large party Thursday night after receiving information from a law enforcement agency in a neighboring county, according to a report. Around 10:20 p.m., Apopka Police Department (APD) shared information with LCSO it received about a large party of more than 200 teenagers who were reportedly coming from Aquatica in Orlando and headed to a party at a home at 34500 Tree Frog Lane in unincorporated Eustis. Some of that information included tips about weapons in multiple vehicles headed to the party that was promoted on social

Deputies break up large party outside Eustis Thursday night Read More »

Tavares deaths believed to be murder-suicide

TAVARES, Fla.—The deaths of two Tavares residents are believed to be the result of murder-suicide, Tavares Police Department said Thursday morning. TPD responded to the home Tuesday on Landing View in Etowah to conduct a well-being check and found Randy Rice, 70, and Karen Knight, 72, a married couple, both deceased in the home, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said. Rice and Knight had both sustained gunshot wounds, and a firearm was found in Rice’s hand. “Based on the preliminary investigation and physical evidence, detectives believe this to be an isolated incident and are investigating it as a likely

Tavares deaths believed to be murder-suicide Read More »

Update on Tavares death investigation expected Thursday

TAVARES, Fla.— Tavares Police Department continues to investigate after the bodies of two adults were discovered in a quiet neighborhood Tuesday afternoon. Inside Lake, the first to report the bodies of two adults were discovered in a Tavares home, asked TPD for more information Wednesday morning, “We have no updates right now; however, we will likely release something tomorrow morning,” TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said. Tuesday night, Sullivan said the bodies of two adults were found at the home on Landing View in the Etowah neighborhood, and evidence on the scene indicated the deaths were an isolated incident.

Update on Tavares death investigation expected Thursday Read More »

2 found dead in Tavares, police conducting death investigation

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is investigating after two people were found dead Tuesday afternoon, Inside Lake has learned. Details were limited Tuesday night; TPD Det. Courtney Sullivan, who also serves as one of the department’s public information officers, said two adults were found deceased in a home, and detectives are at the home on Landing View, located in Etowah conducting a “death investigation.” “Evidence indicates it’s an isolated incident,” Sullivan told Inside Lake. This is a developing story.

2 found dead in Tavares, police conducting death investigation Read More »

VIDEO: Tavares woman flees police with 2 children, drives through 2 fences, over boat and into home

TAVARES, Fla.— A situation that started as an argument last week ended in a trip to jail for a Tavares woman after she fled from police, drove through two fences, over a boat and finally into a house — all with two young children in the vehicle, according to documents obtained by Inside Lake. On June 1, Tavares Police Department responded to a verbal disturbance involving an “ex-girlfriend,” later identified as Myesha Mosley, 22. Prior to their arrival, officers were informed Mosley had left the location in her ex-boyfriend’s black Chevy Trax with her two children, including one she shares

VIDEO: Tavares woman flees police with 2 children, drives through 2 fences, over boat and into home Read More »

Motorcyclist killed trying to pass truck in no-passing zone near Groveland Monday

GROVELAND, Fla.— A Lakeland motorcyclist was killed Monday afternoon while attempting to pass a truck in a no-passing zone on State Road 33 near Groveland, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Just after noon, the 28-year-old Lakeland man was riding a 2024 Yamaha YZF-R1 motorcycle southbound on State Road 33 approaching Pine Island Road when he attempted to pass a 2019 Ford F250 that began to make a left turn onto Pine Island Road. The motorcycle crashed into the side of the truck, throwing the Lakeland man from the bike, FHP said. The motorcyclist was pronounced deceased on the scene

Motorcyclist killed trying to pass truck in no-passing zone near Groveland Monday Read More »

Fatality shuts down SR 33 near Groveland

GROVELAND, Fla.— State Road 33 near Groveland is shutdown while the Florida Highway Patrol investigates a crash that killed at least one person. The crash occurred shortly after noon near the intersection of Pine Island Road. According to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, motorists traveling south on State Road 33 will be rerouted to Redwing Road, motorists traveling north on State Road 33 will be rerouted to Florida Boys Ranch Road and motorists traveling west on Pine Island Road will be rerouted to Montevista Road. This is developing story.

Fatality shuts down SR 33 near Groveland Read More »

Fruitland Park woman arrested for DUI manslaughter in bicyclist’s death

BELLEVIEW, Fla. — A Fruitland Park woman is being held in the Marion County Jail on no bond, accused of killing a bicyclist early Saturday morning. Shortly before 2 a.m., Janice Schwarz, 34, of Fruitland Park was driving a sedan westbound on State Road 25 just past the intersection of Southeast 80th Court near Belleview, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. She struck a bicyclist from behind who was riding westbound on the north shoulder, killing the man, FHP said. The bicyclist, a 37-year-old Ocala man, was pronounced deceased on the scene by Marion County Fire Rescue. Schwarz was arrested

Fruitland Park woman arrested for DUI manslaughter in bicyclist’s death Read More »

Grandmother seeks life insurance payout for suspects in deputy ambush

TAVARES, Fla.— The grandmother of two young women involved in the ambush of Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies last year has filed a claim on their life insurance policies, Inside Lake uncovered in a recent court filing. According to a complaint for interpleader filed by the Gerber Life Insurance Company (GLIC,) Linda Jefferson, mother of Julie Sulpizio and grandmother of Cheyenne and Savannah Sulpizio, is attempting to collect a total of $50,000 on two life insurance policies — $30,000 for Cheyenne Sulpizio and $20,000 for Savannah Sulpizio. An interpleader is a legal tool that allows someone involved in a lawsuit—usually

Grandmother seeks life insurance payout for suspects in deputy ambush Read More »

Eustis police working to identify man who pilfered potato from restaurant

EUSTIS, Fla.—Eustis Police Department is working to identify a man who scooted through a drive-thru window—backside first—ate a raw potato and completed his meal with a hamburger bun topped with a variety of condiments early Saturday. Around 3 a.m., after the restaurant closed for the night, the unidentified man broke into the drive-thru window at Wendy’s, 2817 South Bay Street,  and entered the restaurant backside first, knocking over a stack of condiments near the window, according to EPD. He pocketed some of the condiments, disappeared from camera view and then reappeared with a single potato in his hand. He ate

Eustis police working to identify man who pilfered potato from restaurant Read More »

Woman accused of murdering deputy, attempted murder of 2 others, found incompetent again

TAVARES, Fla.—The woman accused of plotting to kill Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies last year has been found incompetent to proceed to trial for the second time in three months. In an order by Circuit Judge Brian Welke, he states Julie Ann Sulpizio, “The Defendant is not competent to proceed due to Psychotic Spectrum Disorder and Schizophrenia Spectrum Disorder, r/o Schizoaffective Disorder, Bipolar type.” Sulpizio, 49, will be involuntarily committed to the Department of Children and Families, because she “…is manifestly incapable of surviving alone or with the help of willing and responsible family or friends, including available alternative services,

Woman accused of murdering deputy, attempted murder of 2 others, found incompetent again Read More »

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 »

Adult son of Tavares city councilman arrested again, bond set at $400K

TAVARES, Fla.—The adult son of a Tavares city councilman was arrested again Wednesday after a Tavares Police Department detective found video evidence of child sex crimes on his phone, according to a probable cause affidavit. Cole Singer, who turned 22-years-old earlier this month, was picked up Wednesday afternoon on a warrant for four charges – lewd and lascivious battery, lewd and lascivious molestation, lewd and lascivious conduct and production of child pornography, stemming from an incident in 2021. Cole Singer’s father is Troy Singer, a Tavares city councilman who has served on the council since he was appointed in 2016,

Adult son of Tavares city councilman arrested again, bond set at $400K Read More »

Mulch fire causing smoky conditions in Tavares

TAVARES, Fla.—A mulch fire at the Lake County Solid Waste Facility is creating a lot a smoke in the Tavares area and Lake County Fire Rescue officials are telling residents to keep their doors and windows closed. LCFR and the Solid Waste Department are working to break up the mulch pile and remove fuel sources, LCFR said, and the Florida Forestry Service has created a precautionary barrier around the fire that was caused by recent rain and extreme heat. The smoke may continue for several days and businesses and residents should keep doors and windows closed. Individuals with certain respiratory

Mulch fire causing smoky conditions in Tavares Read More »

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 »

Teen reported missing from Eustis arrested in Panhandle kidnapping, 2 adults also facing charges

FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla.—A Eustis teenager has been arrested for kidnapping and lying to cops in the Panhandle, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) said Wednesday. Kaylynn Corsi, 17, was arrested Monday, along with Lennys Cotto, 30, and Joe Trejo, 27, both of Ocala, for their roles in the kidnapping of a man who was beaten multiple times before escaping his captors early Monday morning. According OCSO, a group of masked, armed individuals entered a home on Mooney Road near Fort Walton Beach around 2:45 a.m. The intruders beat and pepper sprayed one of the occupants and then forced him

Teen reported missing from Eustis arrested in Panhandle kidnapping, 2 adults also facing charges Read More »

Clermont police officer puts “service above self” to help local family

CLERMONT, Fla.—A Clermont Police Department officer recently received a commendation letter for helping a family in need earlier this year, Inside Lake has learned. Officer Antonio Robinson, a nearly three-year veteran of CPD, and a member of the agency’s Mobile Crisis Response Unit, had an interaction with a family in need in February—and when a gift card came up short, he paid for the remainder of their groceries out of his own pocket. Sgt. Erin Razo said Robinson’s act was an “extraordinary demonstration of the agency’s core value of ‘Service Above Self.’ Officer Robinson recently went above and beyond in

Clermont police officer puts “service above self” to help local family Read More »

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 »

Candlelight vigil scheduled for Eustis mom found murdered last week

EUSTIS, Fla.—The community is scheduled to come together Friday night to remember Monica Islam, the woman who was found murdered near Mount Dora last week. Islam, 44, was found shot to death near Scenic Hills Drive and Wolf Branch around 7:30 a.m. May 2 after vanishing from Shell, 1701 South Bay Street, Eustis approximately 6:10 a.m. the same morning. According to the missing person report obtained by Inside Lake, Islam’s daughter, Rimi Islam, reported her mother missing around 8:30 a.m. Friday. She told Eustis Police Department they left their home around 5:30 a.m. and arrived at Shell shortly after. She

Candlelight vigil scheduled for Eustis mom found murdered last week Read More »

Clermont man killed near Orlando after crashing into parked SUV Tuesday

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla.—A 78-year-old Clermont man was killed Tuesday after crashing into a parked vehicle shortly after 7 p.m., according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The man was driving a 2012 Ford Escape eastbound on 18th Street west of Woods Street, near Orlando, when he crashed into the front of a parked Chrysler Pacifica facing westbound; the Pacifica was unoccupied, FHP said. The Clermont man was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased. The crash remains under investigation.

Clermont man killed near Orlando after crashing into parked SUV Tuesday Read More »

Woman found dead near Mount Dora is a homicide victim, deputies say

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—The woman found dead Friday was shot to death and detectives believe it was not a “random act,” according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the area of Scenic Hills Drive and Wolf Branch Road Friday morning after someone reported they found a woman’s body. Deputies responded and found the woman, later identified as Monica Islam, 44, who was reported missing from Eustis, Eustis Police Department Chief Craig Capri told Inside Lake Friday. According to the missing person report obtained by Inside Lake, Islam’s daughter, Rimi Islam, reported her mother missing

Woman found dead near Mount Dora is a homicide victim, deputies say Read More »

Mom accused of kidnapping daughters from Sorrento foster home pleads no contest, sentenced to prison

TAVARES, Fla.—The mom accused of kidnapping her two daughters from a Sorrento foster home in January 2024 pleaded no contest last month to her charges and was sentenced to three years in prison, followed by five years of probation, according to Lake County Clerk of Court online records. Lake County Sheriff’s Office detectives began investigating the case after Tilli and Natalia Williams’ foster mother reported them missing around 7 a.m. Jan. 25, 2024. Authorities quickly named their mother, Dixie K. Williams, as a suspect and issued an Amber Alert. They were found the next day in Lincoln Parish, Louisiana after

Mom accused of kidnapping daughters from Sorrento foster home pleads no contest, sentenced to prison Read More »

LCSO deputy shot in rescue attempt of murdered deputy returns to light duty

TAVARES, Fla.—Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stefano Gargano returned to temporary light duty Monday, a little more than nine months after he was shot multiple times. On Aug. 2, 2024, Gargano was shot, suffering traumatic injuries, during a rescue attempt of Master Deputy Bradley Link. Link and K9 Master Deputy Harold Howell, along with several other deputies, were performing a well-being check at the home Julie and Michael Sulpizio shared with their adult daughters, Savannah and Cheyenne Sulpizio, located 38144 Brookside Drive in unincorporated Eustis, following a Baker Act of Julie Sulpizio. After finding two dead dogs in the yard,

LCSO deputy shot in rescue attempt of murdered deputy returns to light duty Read More »

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 »

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 »

LCSO treating death of woman reported missing from Eustis as “potential” homicide investigation

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office has released the identity of the woman found dead near Mount Dora Friday and Eustis Police Department has confirmed she is the subject of its missing person investigation. LCSO responded to the area of Scenic Hills Drive and Wolf Branch Road Friday morning after a caller reported they found a woman’s body. Deputies responded and found Monica Islam, 44, a woman who was reported missing from Eustis, EPD Chief Craig Capri said. LCSO detectives are working the investigation as a potential homicide, pending information from the Medical Examiner’s Office, Cpl. Chanel Martin said.

LCSO treating death of woman reported missing from Eustis as “potential” homicide investigation Read More »

Deputies conducting death investigation near Mount Dora; Eustis police working missing person case, unconfirmed if cases are related

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is in unincorporated Mount Dora conducting a “death investigation” regarding a deceased adult, LCSO Cpl. Chanel Martin told Inside Lake Friday. Multiple tipsters reached out to Inside Lake about the large law enforcement presence near Scenic Hills Drive and Wolf Branch Road. Limited information was released late Friday morning. “The scene is secure and there is no danger to the public,” Martin said. “It doesn’t appear to be a result of natural cause. Detectives are on scene trying to gather more information.” There is also a large law enforcement presence at Shell, 1701

Deputies conducting death investigation near Mount Dora; Eustis police working missing person case, unconfirmed if cases are related Read More »

Tavares police investigating single-vehicle fatal crash

TAVARES, Fla—Tavares Police Department is investigating a single-vehicle crash that killed a Tavares man Tuesday morning. A passerby located a 2020 Chevrolet Colorado pickup truck off State Road 19 at South Eichelberger Road just before 6 a.m. and called TPD. Officers responded and found the driver, Anthony Torres, 64, deceased on the scene; he was not wearing a seatbelt. The crash is still under investigation, but TPD believes Torres was traveling southbound on State Road 19, left the roadway and struck a tree, TPD Detective Caitlin Diaz said in an email. It is unknown what time the crash occurred, the

Tavares police investigating single-vehicle fatal crash Read More »

Husband of missing Mount Dora mom convicted on federal child porn charges

OCALA, Fla.—The husband of missing Mount Dora mom Nicole Baldwin has been convicted of four child pornography charges in federal court. Late last month, Brett Baldwin was found guilty of one count of possession of child pornography depicting a prepubescent minor and three counts of receipt of child pornography by United States District Judge Thomas Barber during a bench trial, according to documents obtained by Inside Lake. Investigators seized Baldwin’s phone Nov. 28, 2023 in their search for his missing wife Nicole – the same day they searched the home in Mount Dora they shared with their children. It is

Husband of missing Mount Dora mom convicted on federal child porn charges Read More »

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 »

Report of gunshot wound in Umatilla Tuesday night was a false alarm

UMATILLA, Fla.—A report of a gunshot victim Tuesday night in Umatilla was a false alarm, according to a Umatilla Police Department report. UPD responded to Circle K, 391 North Central Avenue to meet the purported victim, Dana Waltrip shortly before 8:30 p.m. Tuesday night. Waltrip arrived at the gas station shortly after a UPD officer and appeared “unsteady” and had a bloodstain on the right shoulder area of his shirt. Waltrip said he did not know what had happened to him and the officer asked him if he had been shot. Waltrip showed the officer the back of his head

Report of gunshot wound in Umatilla Tuesday night was a false alarm Read More »

Troopers looking for driver who killed pedestrian and fled Tuesday morning

DeLAND, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is searching for the driver who hit and killed a 40-year-old DeLand man before daybreak Tuesday. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the man was walking in the roadway on Lake Mack Drive in the DeLand area of Lake County shortly before 6 a.m. when he was hit by an unknown vehicle traveling southbound. The vehicle fled the scene and may have turned right on Inez Street, troopers said. Witnesses contacted law enforcement after finding the victim lying in the road; emergency personnel responded to the scene, and the man was pronounced deceased. FHP is

Troopers looking for driver who killed pedestrian and fled Tuesday morning Read More »

Competency review hearing scheduled for matriarch accused of ambush attack on deputies

TAVARES, Fla.—A competency review hearing for the lone survivor of a family deputies say plotted to kill them last year is scheduled for next month. Julie Ann Sulpizio was declared incompetent to stand trial in February for charges stemming from the August 2024 ambush attack outside Eustis that killed Lake County Sheriff’s Office Master Deputy Bradley Link and wounded K9 Master Deputy Harold Howell and Deputy Stefano Gargano. According to Circuit Judge Brian Welke’s order to transport and notice of hearing, the court has been noticed Sulpizio “is competent to proceed, or otherwise no longer meets criteria for continued commitment…”

Competency review hearing scheduled for matriarch accused of ambush attack on deputies Read More »

Adult son of Tavares city councilman arrested on 2 dozen child pornography charges, house they share searched in quest for more evidence

Publisher’s note: There was a discrepancy between this article and online Lake County Jail records regarding Cole Singer’s bond and the number of charges he is facing. This article has been updated to include an explanation from Tavares Police Department. TAVARES, Fla.—The 21-year-old son of a Tavares city councilman was arrested on a warrant for two dozen counts related to child pornography during a search warrant at the home they share Monday. Arrest warrant in hand, Tavares Police Department executed the search warrant at the home of Cole Singer, who lives with his parents in Tavares, after a TPD investigation

Adult son of Tavares city councilman arrested on 2 dozen child pornography charges, house they share searched in quest for more evidence Read More »

BREAKING NEWS: Man shot and killed by deputy after producing handgun in Clermont early Saturday

CLERMONT, Fla.—A man is dead after being shot by a Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputy shortly after midnight, according to LCSO. Just after 12:15 a.m. LCSO responded to a report of a suspicious person standing in the road yelling at passing vehicles in the area of Via Roma Circle in Clermont, and a second call came in reporting the man was beating on a resident’s door, LCSO Sgt. Jim Vachon said in an email. When they arrived, they asked the man, later identified as 39-year-old Eric Escobar, to show his hands; Escobar refused. “While trying to communicate with the individual,

BREAKING NEWS: Man shot and killed by deputy after producing handgun in Clermont early Saturday Read More »

Head-on crash kills Clermont woman Tuesday afternoon

CLERMONT, Fla.—A Clermont woman was killed Tuesday afternoon after veering into the path of a pickup truck, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 56-year-old Clemont woman was driving a 2020 Mercedes Benz GLA-Class westbound on Schofield Road near Five Mile Road outside of Clermont when she veered into the eastbound lane and struck a 2023 Ford F-150 head-on shortly before 5:45 p.m., FHP said. Both drivers were transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center, where the Clemont woman was pronounced deceased. The driver of the Ford, a 43-year-old Clermont man, suffered minor injuries; the crash remains under investigation.

Head-on crash kills Clermont woman Tuesday afternoon Read More »

School bus crash in Umatilla sends driver to the hospital, children uninjured

UMATILLA, Fla.—A crash Thursday morning sent a Lake County Schools bus driver to the hospital, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.   At 7:52 a.m. an LCS school bus transporting multiple children was westbound on County Road 44A east of Blanchester Court when a 2024 Chevy Silverado traveling eastbound veered into the westbound lane and struck the bus head-on, FHP Lt. Tara Crescenzi told Inside Lake. The school bus driver was transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares with non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the Chevy, a 57-year-old Umatilla woman, was not injured.   Fourteen Umatilla Elementary School students were on

School bus crash in Umatilla sends driver to the hospital, children uninjured Read More »

Bail bond agent cheated her client’s mom, Tavares police say

TAVARES, Fla.—A well-known and longtime Tavares bail bond agent found herself on the other side of the law Tuesday when Tavares Police Department arrested her for allegedly cheating her client’s mom out of $900 – and the cash exchange was captured on a parking garage surveillance camera. Jeannie “Red” Hayden is accused of taking the cash in March and leaving the client sitting in jail. According to a report from TPD, on March 27, the client’s mother contacted TPD following a call from another Tavares bail bond agent to TPD that morning. The agent initially told TPD Hayden “scammed” his

Bail bond agent cheated her client’s mom, Tavares police say Read More »

2 south Lake County schools on lockdown “out of an abundance of caution”

Update: The suspect has been taken into custody.  MINNEOLA, Fla.—Two schools are on lockdown “out of an abundance of caution” as Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies are attempting to take a subject into custody on a warrant at a home in Minneola, according to LCSO. Lake Minneola High School and Grassy Lake Elementary are currently on lockdown due to their proximity to the incident location off of Hancock Road, LCSO said. No other information was released. This is a developing story.

2 south Lake County schools on lockdown “out of an abundance of caution” Read More »

3 killed, 1 critically injured in early morning crash near Howey-in-the-Hills

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS, Fla.—Three women were killed and another woman was critically injured after the SUV they were in hit a pole, overturned several times and ejected all four of them Sunday, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Just after 3:15 a.m., a 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee was traveling northbound on State Road 19 near Saint Florian Lane when the driver, a 30-year-old Mount Dora woman, failed to negotiate a curve, FHP said. The Jeep ran off the road, struck a pole and overturned several times, ejecting the driver, and her three passengers, a 32-year-old woman, a 28-year-old woman, and a 26-year-old

3 killed, 1 critically injured in early morning crash near Howey-in-the-Hills Read More »

Davenport motorcyclist killed in crash near Clermont

CLERMONT, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that killed a Davenport woman late Saturday night. Around 11:20 p.m., a 78-year-old Clermont man was driving a 2003 Mercury Grand Marquis northbound on U.S. Highway 27 approaching Sawgrass Bay Boulevard near Clermont, when he failed to see a 2024 Yamaha motorcycle ahead of him, according to FHP. The Mercury struck the motorcycle, and a 2023 Telsa Model Y being driven by a 48-year-old Clermont man, then rear-ended the Mercury. The motorcyclist, a 39-year-old Davenport woman, was transported to AdventHealth – Four Corners Emergency Room, where she was pronounced deceased. The

Davenport motorcyclist killed in crash near Clermont Read More »

Hundreds flood downtown Tavares to celebrate Xavier Saturday night

TAVARES, Fla.—Hundreds of people flooded downtown Tavares Saturday night to join Xavier Williams’ family to celebrate his life at a candlelight vigil held in his honor. Xavier died March 21 after fighting for his life for nearly a month before succumbing to injuries police say his mother and her boyfriend inflicted on him. Lake County Sheriff’s Office Chaplain Joshua Douglas opened the vigil and shared a few stories about Xavier and the boy he was. A natural talent for understanding electronics, Douglas told attendees about a broken iPad that stumped both Apple and Verizon, but Xavier saved the day and

Hundreds flood downtown Tavares to celebrate Xavier Saturday night Read More »

Turn Tavares blue for Xavier: Candlelight vigil scheduled for 7 p.m.

TAVARES, Fla.— The family of Xavier Williams and community members are scheduled to gather tonight to honor and celebrate the life of Xavier, the boy police say was savagely abused and murdered by his mother and her boyfriend. A candlelight vigil is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Wooton Park in downtown Tavares and attendees are encouraged to wear blue – Xavier’s favorite color. Parking is available at the Parking Garage, 200 North Sinclair Avenue. “Xavier’s family warmly invites everyone in our community to join them in this moment of remembrance and gratitude for your overwhelming support during this time,” Tavares

Turn Tavares blue for Xavier: Candlelight vigil scheduled for 7 p.m. Read More »

Fatal crash shuts down Lake Erie Road near Groveland, Mascotte man killed

GROVELAND, Fla.—Lake Erie Road is closed in both directions near County Road 565 outside of Groveland, as the Florida Highway Patrol investigates a fatal crash. A 31-year-old Leesburg man was driving a 2020 Ford F350 westbound on Lake Erie Road and failed to maintain his lane while negotiating a curve. He went off the road and hit a tree around 5:20 p.m. Monday, according to FHP. The driver was transported to Orlando Health – South Lake Hospital with serious injuries and his passenger, a 27-year-old Mascotte man, was pronounced deceased on the scene. The crash remains under investigation.  

Fatal crash shuts down Lake Erie Road near Groveland, Mascotte man killed Read More »

Mom and boyfriend now facing murder charges in death of boy, 10

TAVARES, Fla.—The couple accused of abusing and torturing a Tavares boy to death is now facing additional charges, principal to second-degree murder and two counts of principal to aggravated child abuse, the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office said Monday. While law enforcement and prosecutors continued to work toward securing justice for Xavier Williams and his little brother Monday, his friends and classmates expressed their feelings with a message.   Xavier, 10, died Friday from injuries he suffered at the hands of his mother, Kimberley Mills, 37, and her boyfriend, Andre Walker, 36, according to Tavares Police Department. The couple

Mom and boyfriend now facing murder charges in death of boy, 10 Read More »

Crash near Howey-in-the-Hills kills Dunnellon man late Saturday, injures 2 Groveland teens

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that killed a 30-year-old man and injured two teens Saturday night. Shortly before 11:45 p.m., a 17-year-old male of Groveland, was driving a 2020 Audi A3 southbound on State Road 19 near Arrowtree Boulevard, outside of Howey-in-the Hills, when he veered into the northbound lane. The A3 sideswiped a 2013 Ford Mustang traveling northbound, sending the Mustang off the right side of the road, where it struck a ditch, according to FHP. The driver of the Mustang, a Dunnellon man, was pronounced deceased on the scene. The driver of the A3,

Crash near Howey-in-the-Hills kills Dunnellon man late Saturday, injures 2 Groveland teens Read More »

Police identify Tavares boy who died from alleged abuse, candlelight vigil scheduled in his honor

TAVARES, Fla.—The boy police say died Friday from savage abuse at the hands of  his mother and her boyfriend has been identified and a candlelight vigil has been scheduled to honor and celebrate his life. Xavier Williams, 10, died Friday from injuries he suffered from the abuse after spending nearly a month in the hospital. His mother, Kimberley Mills, and her boyfriend, Andre Walker brought Xavier to the hospital in cardiac arrest and covered in burns and bruises in February. The vigil is scheduled for 7 p.m. March 29 at Wooton Park in Tavares. “Xavier’s family warmly invites everyone in

Police identify Tavares boy who died from alleged abuse, candlelight vigil scheduled in his honor Read More »

Community mourns loss of Tavares boy, a victim of “unimaginable abuse”

TAVARES, Fla.—Less than a full day after Tavares Police Department announced the death of a little boy they say suffered “unimaginable abuse,” a memorial is growing at the home where he suffered the abuse. The home is adorned with balloons, stuffed animals and flowers left by community members expressing their sorrow and condolences for the boy who was just 10 years old. The boy, whose name has not been released, attended a local elementary school and by all accounts, according to TPD, his mother, Kimberley Mills, kept the abuse hidden from everyone, including adults and children he interacted with at

Community mourns loss of Tavares boy, a victim of “unimaginable abuse” Read More »

Little boy savagely abused by mom and boyfriend dies from his injuries

Update: Tavares Police have identified the boy as Xavier Williams. Police identify Tavares boy who died from alleged abuse, candlelight vigil scheduled in his honor – Inside Lake TAVARES, Fla.—The boy who was savagely abused by his mother and her boyfriend has died. The 10-year-old boy was a “victim of unimaginable abuse and neglect at the hands of those who were meant to care for him,” Tavares Police Department Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said in an email. “This innocent child’s life was marked by unspeakable suffering, and his loss has deeply shaken our community and everyone involved in this

Little boy savagely abused by mom and boyfriend dies from his injuries Read More »

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 »

Stretch of Minneola highway to be renamed in fallen deputy’s honor

MINNEOLA, Fla.—The Minneola City Council adopted a resolution Tuesday, designating a portion of U.S. Highway 27 to be renamed in Lake County Sheriff’s Office Master Deputy Bradley Link’s honor. The stretch of roadway, from Division Street to County Road 561, will be renamed the “Master Deputy Sheriff Bradley Michael Link Memorial Highway.” Link’s parents accepted the resolution, and once the final bill is approved in Tallahassee, the official change will be made. Link was killed Aug. 3, 2024 when LCSO responded to an altercation and then performed a well-being check in unincorporated Eustis. During the well-being check, Link was shot

Stretch of Minneola highway to be renamed in fallen deputy’s honor Read More »

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 »

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 »

Eustis Elementary celebrates 100 years

EUSTIS, Fla. – Eustis Elementary will celebrate 100 years of “Continuing Our Legacy” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, March 22, at the school campus, 714 E. Citrus Avenue. Families, friends, teachers, staff and alumni are invited to attend. Eustis Mayor Willie Hawkins will open the festivities in front of the school at 10 a.m. with the reading of a proclamation. The celebration will continue with historical tours, performances, games, food, music, art and more. “Eustis Elementary has served so many in our community for so many years, and it continues to be a bright light in the lives of our

Eustis Elementary celebrates 100 years Read More »

Social media monitoring sparks investigation: Multiple tips result in Eustis man’s arrest

EUSTIS, Fla.— A Eustis man is facing 10 counts of possession of obscene and lewd materials, following an investigation by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The suspect was identified and arrested after the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received multiple tips about accounts linked to a man, later identified as Randall Lee Small II, 38. According to a probable cause affidavit, FDLE began investigating tips that came into NCMEC’s CyperTipline (CT) from multiple social media platforms last year, including Facebook, TikTok and Snapchat.  A tip came from Facebook in May 2024, regarding one of its users

Social media monitoring sparks investigation: Multiple tips result in Eustis man’s arrest Read More »

Dash cam released of FHP PIT maneuver that flipped stolen truck near Mount Dora in January

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—Inside Lake has obtained dash cam footage from the Florida Highway Patrol, capturing the moment a trooper executed a precision immobilization technique (PIT) maneuver to stop a fleeing suspect earlier this year. Inside Lake first reported in January on the arrest of Corey Michael Wakefield, 21, of St. Cloud. Wakefield was arrested on numerous charges after fleeing from a trooper who attempted to stop him for speeding in what was later found to be a stolen truck. Around 9 p.m. Jan. 15, the trooper was conducting traffic enforcement on U.S. Highway 441 near Natoma Boulevard in Mount Dora

Dash cam released of FHP PIT maneuver that flipped stolen truck near Mount Dora in January Read More »

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 »

One killed, one airlifted in wrong-way crash near Clermont Wednesday

CLERMONT, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that killed a Wesley Chapel woman early Wednesday in unincorporated Clermont. Just before 1 a.m., a 39-year-old man of Greensboro, North Carolina was driving a 2004 GMC Sierra the wrong way in the southbound lane of State Road 33, near County Road 474 when he slammed into a 2007 Hyundai Sonata being driven by a 27-year-old Wesley Chapel woman. The impact rotated the Sonata clockwise and flipped the Sierra, FHP said. The Wesley Chapel woman was transported to Lakeland Regional Medical Center and pronounced deceased; the North Carolina man was airlifted

One killed, one airlifted in wrong-way crash near Clermont Wednesday Read More »

No bond for boyfriend accused of savagely abusing girlfriend’s sons

TAVARES, Fla.—The man accused of savagely abusing both his girlfriend’s sons was denied bond Tuesday by Lake Circuit Judge Brian Welke. Andre Walker, 36, is accused of abusing the 10-year-old son of his girlfriend, Kimberley Mills, 37, leaving him in critical condition. Tavares police say Mills, “was methodical in what her children wore and what they said to others to ensure that absolutely no one would learn of what she was doing to her children behind closed doors.” “Our department has been working closely with the State Attorney’s Office on this case since day one. We prepared for today and

No bond for boyfriend accused of savagely abusing girlfriend’s sons Read More »

Both brothers are victims of mom and boyfriend in savage child abuse case, Tavares police say

TAVARES, Fla.—A mom and her boyfriend are each facing more charges as one boy they are accused of abusing continues to fight for his life. Kimberley Mills, 37, has been in the Lake County Jail since early Sunday morning after bringing her 10-year-old son to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares Saturday night while the child was in cardiac arrest, and covered in burns and bruises. Her boyfriend, Andre Walker, 36, accompanied Mills to the hospital but they soon disappeared when they found out hospital staff called law enforcement. Mills returned to the hospital with the boy’s brother, and Walker’s whereabouts were

Both brothers are victims of mom and boyfriend in savage child abuse case, Tavares police say Read More »

Man accused of terrorizing Eustis female joggers and attempting to run down cop pleads guilty

TAVARES, Florida—The man accused of attacking three women and trying to run down a Eustis police officer in 2023 will spend the next 15 years of his life in prison – and when he gets out, he will be labeled a sexual predator and serve 15 years of probation, according to Lake County Clerk of Court online records. Jephson Seguin pleaded guilty to attempted sexual battery, attempted murder of a law enforcement officer and fleeing or attempting to elude on Monday. Seguin, of Eustis, is accused of attacking two women in the spring of 2023 and a third woman on

Man accused of terrorizing Eustis female joggers and attempting to run down cop pleads guilty Read More »

Man wanted in connection with Tavares child abuse case in custody

TAVARES, Fla.—The man wanted in connection with a severe child abuse case has turned himself in, sources told Inside Lake Monday. Andre Dwayne Walker, 36, turned himself in at the Lake County Jail Monday afternoon. Walker is facing a charge of accessory after the fact – aggravated child abuse after a 10-year-old boy was brought to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares Saturday night by Walker and the boy’s mother with severe injuries consistent with child abuse, Tavares Police Department said. The boy’s mother, Kimberley Mills, 37, was arrested for aggravated child abuse and is being held in the Lake County Jail

Man wanted in connection with Tavares child abuse case in custody Read More »

Tavares boy clinging to life, mom arrested for abuse, man wanted for accessory after the fact

TAVARES, Fla.—A young boy is clinging to life in an Orlando hospital with signs of severe abuse, his mother is being held in jail on no bond, and police are searching for a man who disappeared from the hospital while the boy was being treated Saturday night, Tavares Police Department said Sunday. Shortly before 9:30 p.m., Kimberley Leonie Mills, 37, and man later identified as Andre Dwayne Walker, 36, arrived at AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares with a 10-year-old boy who was suffering from a critical health event, and had numerous burns and bruising in various stages of healing, in addition

Tavares boy clinging to life, mom arrested for abuse, man wanted for accessory after the fact Read More »

Suspected Sorrento murderer in custody

SORRENTO, Fla.—The man accused of killing a man in Sorrento Thursday, is in custody according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. “… Justin Fout has been located and taken into custody by law enforcement. As the situation is still under investigation, additional details are not yet available,” LCSO Cpl. Chanel Martin said late Friday afternoon.  Deputies were also attempting to locate Patricia Neeley, as person of interest in the murder of Justin Kates, 37. LCSO has not released any new information on her whereabouts. Fout is suspected of murdering Kates during an altercation Thursday at 31504 Colby Place in Sorrento.

Suspected Sorrento murderer in custody Read More »

Deputies searching for Sorrento murder suspect

SORRENTO, Fla.—A man is on the run, accused of killing a man in Sorrento Thursday, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Witnesses said Justin Kates, 37, and Justin Joseph Raymond Fout, 31, engaged in a verbal argument Thursday at 31504 Colby Place in Sorrento. The argument apparently escalated and Fout shot Kates, killing him, LCSO said. He was found dead lying in the roadway when deputies arrived on scene. Fout fled the scene, along with Patricia Neeley, in an older model white Dodge Ram van. The van should have front and rear end damage and red transfer paint on

Deputies searching for Sorrento murder suspect Read More »

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 »

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 »

CAPTURED: NY double murder suspect spotted near Lake County taken into custody in Daytona Beach

2 p.m. Update: Scott Mitchell has been taken into custody in Daytona Beach. DeLAND, Fla.—A man suspected of killing two men in New York was spotted in DeLand Tuesday, just a few miles outside of Lake County, according to the Volusia Sheriff’s Office and authorities are offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to his arrest. Scott C. Mitchell is wanted for the murders of Daniel McCloe, 58, and Marshall VanOven 55, after they were found dead in a Binghampton, New York home earlier this month. Binghampton is located about 180 miles northwest of New York City. Mitchell is believed

CAPTURED: NY double murder suspect spotted near Lake County taken into custody in Daytona Beach Read More »

Major traffic shift for this year’s Eustis Georgefest Parade

EUSTIS, Fla.—Motorists will experience a new traffic shift during the City of Eustis Georgfest Parade scheduled for Feb. 22. Beginning at 9 a.m. Feb. 22, State Road 19 (Bay Street) southbound will be shut down between County 44 and Herrick Avenue and travelers will be diverted onto either westbound or eastbound County Road 44, at the intersection that includes 7-Eleven, Burger King, Walgreens and CVS Pharmacy, Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri told Inside Lake. Northbound traffic on State Road 19 (Grove Street) will not be affected. Drivers should expect delays and plan an alternate route, Capri said. This is a

Major traffic shift for this year’s Eustis Georgefest Parade Read More »

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 »

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 »

Names and body cam released in deadly Clermont domestic incident

CLERMONT, Fla.—Clermont Police Department has released the names of the couple found dead after a domestic incident Wednesday. Christian Steeler Filson, 28, and Sarah Dale, 29, were found dead after an unidentified caller reported Dale was screaming and being chased by a man at Cottonwood Clermont, 1200 Hooks Street, shortly before 3:30 p.m. Wednesday. When officers arrived, they began searching for the victim and spotted blood near an apartment in building 12. Officers entered apartment 12202, and found Dale, with a mortal gunshot wound. “When our officers arrived, they immediately observed what appeared to be blood and a spent bullet

Names and body cam released in deadly Clermont domestic incident Read More »

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

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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

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Lady Lake police nab one of FBI’s Ten Most Wanted

LADY LAKE, Fla.—One of the FBI’s Ten Most Wanted is behind bars thanks to proactive policing by a Lady Lake Police Department sergeant. LLPD Sgt. Michelle Bilbrey spotted a car with the wrong license plate around 9:15 a.m. Saturday, and performed a traffic stop at the intersection of U.S. Highway 441/27 and Rolling Acres Road. She identified the driver as Donald Eugene Fields II, 60, who has been on the run for nearly three years since missing a court appearance in Franklin County, Missouri in March 2022. Fields was indicted in federal court in St. Louis in December 2023 for

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Rhythm on Ruby scheduled for Saturday afternoon

TAVARES, Fla.—The City of Tavares annual Rhythm on Ruby street party is scheduled to run from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday and will feature live bands, food and fun. There will be two stages of live music, food trucks, vendors, and showcases, along with a roaming photo booth and roaming artists that will provide free photos and drawings to attendees. Street performers will also provide entertainment, including stilt walkers, aerial performances and an instrument balancing act. Parking is available at the Parking Garage, 200 North Sinclair Avenue and bring a chair, seating is limited. For more information, visit City

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Orlando man convicted of Umatilla murder, sentenced to life in prison

TAVARES, Fla.—One of the men accused of murdering a Umatilla man in 2022 will spend the rest of his life in prison, according to Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney Bill Gladson’s Office. “The actions of this defendant were calculated, deliberate, and devoid of remorse,” said Walter Forgie, Chief Assistant State Attorney. “Justice demands accountability for such actions.” Undray Benson, 53, of Orlando was found guilty in the first-degree murder of Antwain “Lil Daddy” Hart, 31, Thursday following a bench trial, and he was sentenced to life in prison by Judge James Baxley. Only Inside Lake was on the scene Nov.

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FHP PIT maneuver takes down fleeing suspect in two-county pursuit that reached speeds of 110 mph last week

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—A St. Cloud man remains jailed on a litany of charges stemming from a pursuit that ended with a PIT maneuver. Around 9 p.m. Jan.15, a Florida Highway Patrol trooper was conducting speed enforcement on U.S. Highway 441 near Natoma Boulevard in Mount Dora and observed a gray Chevy Silverado traveling 85 miles per hour in a 50 mile per hour zone in the northbound inside lane. The trooper pulled out to stop the truck and it entered the left turn lane for Lincoln Avenue, ran the red light, performed a U-turn and headed southbound, according to an

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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.

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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

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