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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 […]

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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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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

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

Father of young girl found dead in Montverde last month arrested on unrelated charges

TAVARES, Fla.—The father of a young girl found dead in Montverde last month was arrested last week on unrelated charges out of Polk County, according to Lake County Sheriff’s Office online booking records. Lojuan Jamario Sessions, 26, father of 9-year-old Jamaria Sessions, was picked up at his job in Eustis Wednesday by Eustis Police Department on two warrants for violating probation, stemming from a 2019 Polk County case. In January 2019, Sessions was accused of fleeing from a Haines City Police Department officer after the officer found a bag of drugs, later determined to be amphetamine, in plain view in

Father of young girl found dead in Montverde last month arrested on unrelated charges Read More »

Medical examiner: Self-inflicted gunshot killed Altoona man found in burning home Saturday

ALTOONA, Fla.—The man found dead in his burning home Saturday took his own life, according to the medical examiner, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office said Monday. Michael Gall, 49, was found dead in his home at 20332 Wood Duck Road in Altoona around 1 p.m. Saturday, LCSO Lt. John Herrell said. LCSO and Lake County Fire responded to the home after reports it was on fire and LCFR found Gall dead in the home. The medical examiner performed an autopsy Sunday and preliminary findings showed Gall died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, according to Herrell. If you are struggling or

Medical examiner: Self-inflicted gunshot killed Altoona man found in burning home Saturday Read More »

Man found dead in burning Altoona home Saturday

ALTOONA, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after a man was found dead in a burning home Saturday afternoon. LCSO and Lake County Fire Rescue responded to 20332 Wood Duck Road, Altoona around 1 p.m. on reports the home was on fire. LCFR removed a deceased male from the home, and authorities found he had an apparent gunshot wound, according to LCSO Lt. John Herrell. The man, identified as Michael Gall, 49, lived at the home and detectives are conducting a death investigation, Herrell said; no other information was released.

Man found dead in burning Altoona home Saturday Read More »

Lady Lake police investigating after man found dead in golf cart Sunday night

LADY LAKE, Fla.—Lady Lake Police Department is investigating after a man was found dead in a golf cart Sunday night. The 59-year-old man, whose name has not been released, was found after LLPD responded to 1 LaGrande Boulevard and found him unresponsive around 10 p.m. Sunday. “There were no signs of foul play, however the cause of death is unknown. Police do not believe there is any cause for alarm to the community,” Town of Lady Lake Spokesperson Elisha Pappacoda said in an email. If you have any information on the man’s death, call LLPD at 352-751-1565.

Lady Lake police investigating after man found dead in golf cart Sunday night Read More »

Astatula man killed Friday morning after rear-ending dump truck in Orange County

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla.—A 30-year-old Astatula man was killed before daybreak Friday morning after he rear-ended a dump truck near Zellwood, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly after 5:30 a.m., the Astatula man was driving a 2014 Chevrolet Silverado westbound on Jones Avenue near Jewel Foliage Road when he entered the eastbound lane, traveling above the posted speed limit, to pass another vehicle, FHP said. He reentered the westbound lane, failed to slow down and rear-ended a 1985 dump truck being driven by a 38-year-old Eustis man. The Astatula man was transported to AdventHealth Apopka and pronounced deceased; the Eustis

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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 »

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 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. Lopez

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Umatilla man pleads no contest to ’22 DUI manslaughter crash that killed Sorrento woman, sentenced to more than 11 years in prison

TAVARES, Fla.—A man accused of operating his motorcycle drunk and killing a woman riding on the back in April 2022 has pleaded no contest to DUI manslaughter and was sentenced to more than 11 years in prison. Edgar Wesley Tello, 66, of Umatilla, has been in the Lake County Jail since his arrest in February 2023, nearly a year after the crash that killed Rebekah Jo Towner less than two weeks after her 28th birthday. On April 24, 2022, Towner, of Sorrento, was a passenger on 2006 Harley Davidson being controlled by Tello, northbound on Grove Street in Eustis, when

Umatilla man pleads no contest to ’22 DUI manslaughter crash that killed Sorrento woman, sentenced to more than 11 years in prison Read More »

Leesburg man accused of exposing himself on busy highway during road rage incident Sunday

LEESBURG, Fla.—A man was arrested after he was accused of exposing his genitals to three people in the middle of the day on a busy highway during a road rage incident Sunday afternoon. Shortly before 3:15 p.m. Sunday, a Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputy responded to a report of a road rage incident and indecent exposure. One of the victims told the deputy they were traveling northbound on U.S. Highway 27 when they slowed due to heavy rain, according to an arrest affidavit. A speeding silver Kia Optima swerved around their vehicle and cut them off. The Optima continued to

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Death of 9-year-old girl being treated as a homicide investigation, maternal family says

MONTVERDE, Fla.—The maternal family of the child found deceased in a Montverde home Monday has publicly identified her and they say the Lake County Sheriff’s Office has told them her death is a homicide investigation. Only Inside Lake spoke with the uncle and grandmother of Jamaria Sessions, 9, this week. According to Jamaria’s uncle Joseph Robinson, Jamaria and her younger sister, 5, had been living with their father, Lojuan Sessions since October 2023, and Jamaria was found deceased at his home in Montverde. Prior to that, they were living with their grandmother when Sessions picked them up from school without

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Ham Radio Field Day set for this weekend

TAVARES, Fla.—Each June, more than 40,000 amateur radio operators, known as “hams” set up temporary transmitting stations in public places  throughout North America to demonstrate ham radio’s science, skill, and service to our communities and nation. It combines public service, emergency preparedness, community outreach, and technical skills in a single event. Field Day has been an annual event since 1933 and remains the most popular event in ham radio. The competitive aspect of Field Day is to contact as many other amateur stations as possible between 2 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. The public is invited to attend the

Ham Radio Field Day set for this weekend Read More »

Information finally released following search warrants executed on gaming facilities earlier this month

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—Only Inside Lake was on the scene earlier this month as Lake County Sheriff’s Office detectives, in conjunction with the Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) searched an internet gaming facility in unincorporated Umatilla, and LCSO has finally released information regarding that search warrant and three more. On June 13, 2024, four search warrants were executed at different illegal gaming establishments in Lake County. Detectives with the Leesburg, Clermont, Eustis, and Mount Dora police departments also assisted with the investigation that stemmed from continued concerns that illegal gambling throughout Lake County leads to an increase in law enforcement calls

Information finally released following search warrants executed on gaming facilities earlier this month Read More »

Driver who caused crash that shut down Grove Street Monday night arrested for DUI

EUSTS, Fla.—The driver of the truck that took out an electrical pole, a fire hydrant, and shut down Grove Street for more than 10 hours Monday has been arrested for DUI. Tyler G. Cook, 29, of Eustis, was arrested early Tuesday morning after being released from the hospital, where he refused a blood draw, according to an arrest affidavit. Around 6:30 p.m. Monday, EPD responded to a crash one Grove Street near North Eustis Street and found a power pole lying across the road, a fire hydrant spewing water and a blue Chevy truck on its roof, with an open

Driver who caused crash that shut down Grove Street Monday night arrested for DUI Read More »

Child found deceased at Montverde home, Medical Examiner to determine cause of death

MONTVERDE, Fla.—A 9-year-old child was found deceased by a family member at their home in Montverde Monday and turned over to the Medical Examiner’s Office to determine the cause of death, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. The child’s name and gender were not released. Little information was available Tuesday, but “there is no danger to the public and the investigation is ongoing,” Cpl. Chanel Martin told Inside Lake.

Child found deceased at Montverde home, Medical Examiner to determine cause of death Read More »

Truck takes out electrical pole, fire hydrant, flips over and shuts down Grove Street in Eustis Monday night

EUSTS, Fla.—A state road is shut down Monday night after a speeding truck took out an electrical pole, a fire hydrant, and flipped over; and the driver may have been drunk, according to Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri. An adult male, who has not been publicly identified, was traveling northbound on Grove Street near North Eustis Street at a “high rate of speed” in a pickup truck around 6:30 p.m. when he lost control, hit the pole, the fire hydrant and flipped over, Capri told Inside Lake. The driver and his passenger were transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares with

Truck takes out electrical pole, fire hydrant, flips over and shuts down Grove Street in Eustis Monday night Read More »

Dump truck driver swerves and hits pickup head-on, killing DeLand man Friday morning

DeLAND, Fla.—A 35-year-old DeLand man was killed Friday morning after a dump truck swerved and hit the pickup truck he was driving head-on, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 7:15 a.m., a 23-year-old Deltona man was driving a 2018 Kenworth dump truck eastbound on State Road 44, approaching Misty Lane in the DeLand area of Lake County, when he swerved left to avoid stopped traffic, FHP said The dump truck crashed head-on into a 2021 Dodge Ram 1500 traveling westbound, killing the Ram’s driver. The dump truck driver was transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares with minor injuries. Earlier

Dump truck driver swerves and hits pickup head-on, killing DeLand man Friday morning Read More »

Fatal crash shuts down SR 44 Friday morning

Update: Dump truck driver swerves and hits pickup head-on, killing DeLand man Friday morning – Inside Lake   DeLAND, Fla.—State Road 44 is shut down while the Florida Highway Patrol investigates a crash that killed a man Friday morning. The crash happened around 7:15 a.m. at State Road 44 and Misty Lane in the DeLand area of Lake County and involves a 2018 Kenworth dump truck, a 2021 Dodge Ram 1500 and a 2024 Toyota Camry. The driver of the Ram was pronounced deceased on the scene and had not been identified at press time; details on how the crash

Fatal crash shuts down SR 44 Friday morning Read More »

Law enforcement investigating internet gaming facilities in unincorporated Umatilla and Tavares

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—There is a large law enforcement presence at two internet gaming facilities, one in unincorporated Umatilla and one in unincorporated Tavares, Thursday morning and Inside Lake is working to find out why. Inside Lake received multiple tips and was on the scene at Hotspot, 37415 State Road 19, Umatilla, briefly and witnessed several marked units from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office at the business around 9:30 a.m. A tipster also said there was a law enforcement presence at another Hotspot, located at 11203 U.S. Highway 441, Tavares, near County Road 473. “We’re working an investigation regarding those gaming

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Shots fired in Tavares condo complex Wednesday, knocks power out to multiple residences

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is investigating after multiple shots were fired in a condominium complex late Wednesday night. Shortly before 10 p.m., TPD received multiple 911 calls in reference to numerous shots being fired in the Rosewood Condominiums, located off Dead River Road, Det. Courtney Sullivan said. No one was injured, according to Sullivan, and two vehicles fled the complex; one may have been a gray Chevrolet Impala or a Dodge Dart. Police believe there were multiple people involved in the incident and at least two shooters, due to evidence found at the scene. An electrical box was shot, leaving

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Eustis family trying to rebuild their lives after loss of home and dog to devastating fire

EUSTIS, Fla.—A Eustis family is trying to rebuild their lives after losing their home and beloved dog to a devastating fire around midnight Monday. Amanda and Joe Mitchem and their son, Joey, 16, were able to escape the blaze, but lost everything they owned and their pup “Bitty Dog,” in the fire. Their daughter, Joni, 18, did not live at the home but was storing most of her belongings there, Amanda told Inside Lake.  The Mitchem family does not have insurance.   Joe and Amanda heard their breaker box making a “buzzing” sound late Sunday night and when Joe opened

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FHP: Boy, 6, seriously injured after jumping from moving SUV near Leesburg

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating an incident that involved a child jumping out of a moving SUV in unincorporated Leesburg Wednesday, Trooper Migdalisis Garcia said. A 2007 Dodge Durango was traveling northbound on County Road 33 with its windows down when the 6-year-old boy jumped out near Chipmunk Drive, Garcia said. The boy was transported to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children with serious injuries; the driver, a 36-year-old woman from Okahumpka, was not injured. The relationship between the boy and the woman was not released. The incident remains under investigation.

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Lake County jury convicts man of shooting woman in Mount Dora last year

TAVARES, Fla.—A man accused of shooting a woman twice in Mount Dora last year was convicted by a Lake County jury Wednesday, according to the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office. In March 2023, Mount Dora Police Department responded to the 1500 block of Pine Avenue on a report of a shooting and when they arrived, they found a woman in a 2010 Nissan passenger vehicle suffering from two gunshot wounds. The victim told police “Jason,” later identified as Jason Jameel Ganga shot her while she was attempting to leave, and he was inside. There were two bullet holes through

Lake County jury convicts man of shooting woman in Mount Dora last year Read More »

Tavares police thwart man’s plans to kill his father and beat him with a stick Wednesday

TAVARES, Fla.—A 27-year-old man is behind bars, accused of violating a New York injunction that prohibits him from possessing a firearm, after Tavares Police Department found him with a loaded 9mm he planned to use to “put all of the bullets into his father,” according to an arrest affidavit. Tavares Police Department responded to a home on a request that Tyekwon A. Neal be evaluated because he was “acting crazy,” as he left the home on foot shortly before 1:30 pm. Wednesday. Neal’s father told officers Neal said he was going to make him pay for his mistakes and he

Tavares police thwart man’s plans to kill his father and beat him with a stick Wednesday Read More »

Lady Lake police asking for tips to crack the case that left a young man dead last year

LADY LAKE, Fla.—It’s been nearly a year since 20-year-old Bryson Leverette was gunned down by a group of armed suspects in the Skyline Hills area of Lady Lake and Lady Lake Police Department has a new, seasoned detective on the case. Leverette and another victim were leaving a home at 104 Caroline Avenue around 12:45 a.m. June 30, 2023, when they were approached by the group, armed with several firearms, Town of Lady Lake Spokesperson Elisha Pappacoda said in a press release. LLPD responded to the home after a report of gunshots and found Leverette deceased, and a second person

Lady Lake police asking for tips to crack the case that left a young man dead last year Read More »

FWC: License-free freshwater fishing this weekend

FLORIDA—The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is hosting a license-free freshwater fishing weekend Saturday and Sunday Florida residents and visitors of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to try recreational fishing this weekend and FWC has helpful resources for new anglers to get started. Largemouth bass are Florida’s most popular freshwater fish and if you catch one 8 pounds or heavier, submit it to TrophyCatch. There is a special promotion this season where pink-tagged bass are swimming and worth extra prizes in five waterbodies across the state. Try your luck and you could even win sunglasses just for

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Leesburg police identify murder suspect, need public’s help finding him

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has identified the man they believe is responsible for a murder and armed robbery Thursday night. A warrant has been issued for Alex Lopez, 25, of Wildwood for premeditated murder, armed robbery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and using a firearm during a felony. Shortly after 9 p.m. Thursday, a man believed to be Lopez, entered Fast Stop Superette, 3702 Picciola Road, and shot Raied Shihadeh, 51. He was airlifted to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, where he died from his injuries, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. The suspect, now identified as Lopez, fled

Leesburg police identify murder suspect, need public’s help finding him Read More »

Leesburg police release new photos of murder suspect in quest to identify him

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has released enhanced photos of the suspect who killed a store owner during a robbery Thursday night. Shortly after 9 p.m. Thursday, the male suspect entered Fast Stop Superette, 3702 Picciola Road, and shot Raied Shihadeh, 51. He was airlifted to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, where he died from his injuries, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. The suspect fled the scene and despite an extensive search by K9 units and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office aviation unit, they were unable to apprehend him, Walsh said. LPD quickly released a still photo and video following the senseless

Leesburg police release new photos of murder suspect in quest to identify him Read More »

Leesburg robbery and shooting victim dies overnight, suspect on the run

LEESBURG, Fla.—The store employee who was shot during a robbery in Leesburg Thursday night has died. Raied Shihadeh, 51, was airlifted to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries, Leesburg Police Department Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. LPD responded to Fast Stop Superette, 3702 Picciola Road, at 9:08 p.m. Thursday on a report of a robbery and shooting and found Shihadeh unconscious. Lake EMS and Leesburg Fire Rescue responded to the scene to treat Shihadeh and he was airlifted due to the seriousness of his injuries, according to Walsh. “Leesburg officers immediately established a perimeter and requested our

Leesburg robbery and shooting victim dies overnight, suspect on the run Read More »

PHOTO: Marilyn M. Aciego/Inside Lake

LCSO Investigating possible murder-suicide in Umatilla

UMATILLA, Fla. – The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating what may be a murder-suicide in Umatilla Friday morning. LCSO and Umatilla Police Department responded to a home at 44 South Kentucky Avenue around 5:30 a.m. after a complainant reported receiving a “suspicious text message,” according to a press release. When law enforcement arrived, they found Tracy Bean, 50, and Ki’anna Lister, 25, both deceased. Today is Lister’s birthday, according to the birthdate released by LCSO. “The victims displayed signs of homicidal trauma, Lake County detectives are on scene investigating the possible murder-suicide,” according to the press release. The relationship

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VIDEO: Leesburg Police release surveillance video of store robbery

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story described the possible race of the suspect, Leesburg Police Department has since stated the suspect’s race is unconfirmed.  LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has released store surveillance video of an armed robbery and shooting Thursday night. Police have not identified the man who entered the Fast Stop Superette, 3702 Picciola Road, Leesburg and shot an employee shortly before 9:30 pm. LPD is looking for a male wearing an orange shirt and had his face covered with a pink shirt. The victim was airlifted to a local hospital and the victim’s condition was unknown

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One shot in robbery at Leesburg store Thursday night, Leesburg Police searching for suspect

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story described the possible race of the suspect, Leesburg Police Department has since stated the suspect’s race is unconfirmed.  Update: VIDEO: Leesburg Police release surveillance video of store robbery – Inside Lake LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is searching for a suspect who robbed and shot a store employee Thursday night. Details were limited at press time, “It’s a very active scene,” LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh told Inside Lake. Shortly before 9:30 p.m., Fast Stop Superette, 3702 Picciola Road, Leesburg was robbed, and one person was shot. The victim was airlifted to an area

One shot in robbery at Leesburg store Thursday night, Leesburg Police searching for suspect Read More »

Sorrento man accused of taunting friend after running him over last week in Eustis, victim airlifted

EUSTIS, Fla.—A man was airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center last week after his friend ran him over—and Eustis Police say it was intentional. Around 6:30 p.m. May 19, EPD responded to the intersection of Clay Boulevard and Pine Grove Road on a report of someone being hit by a vehicle and when they arrived, they found Frederick Correll lying on the ground, bleeding, with road rash all over his body. His injuries were so severe he was airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center, according to an arrest affidavit. His condition at press time was unknown. Correll’s friend was on

Sorrento man accused of taunting friend after running him over last week in Eustis, victim airlifted Read More »

Lake County Golden Triangle Rotary awards scholarships for 2024-25 school year

MOUNT DORA—The Rotary Club of Lake County Golden Triangle awarded $26,000 in scholarships to 13 central Florida residents who are pursuing higher education degrees in the 2024-25 academic year. The awards are based on criteria including scholastic ability, responsibility toward education and financial need with a special emphasis on community service Morris W. Dunbar established a Nursing Scholarship in honor of his wife. The recipient is Reyna Green, a Mount Dora High School graduate, studying at the University of South Florida. The Richard Earhart Endowment provides a scholarship to students from Mount Dora. The recipient is Kari Martinez, a Mount

Lake County Golden Triangle Rotary awards scholarships for 2024-25 school year Read More »

FHP identifies Umatilla man killed in Astor early Wednesday

ASTOR, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol has identified the man killed in Astor early Wednesday morning. Robert Sangster Jr., 26, of Umatilla, was standing in the westbound lane of State Road 40, near Blue Creek Lodge Road shortly after 4 a.m. when he was struck by a 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee being driven by a 58-year-old Polk City woman. The woman swerved to avoid Sangster Jr., but the right side of the SUV collided with him. He was pronounced deceased on the scene. The woman was not injured and remained on scene, FHP said. The crash closed State Road 40 for approximately

FHP identifies Umatilla man killed in Astor early Wednesday Read More »

Umatilla man killed in Astor early Wednesday morning; SR 40 shut down

Update: FHP identifies Umatilla man killed in Astor early Wednesday – Inside Lake ASTOR, Fla.—A 26-year-old Umatilla man was killed Wednesday after he was struck by an SUV on State Road 40 in Astor, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The Umatilla man was standing in the westbound lane of State Road 40 shortly after 4 a.m. when he was struck by 2019 Jeep Grand Cherokee being driven by a 58-year-old Polk City woman. The woman swerved to avoid the man, but the right side of the SUV struck him, killing him. His next of kin has not been notified.

Umatilla man killed in Astor early Wednesday morning; SR 40 shut down Read More »

2nd suspect in Paisley home invasion nabbed Tuesday

TAVARES, Fla.—The man wanted for a home invasion and zip-tying a victim earlier this month is behind bars. James Kenneth Rohrer, 28, was taken into custody by Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies in the DeLand area of Lake County early Tuesday morning, according to public records. Rohrer is accused of zip-tying a man and ransacking his home, after his partner in crime, Kayla Louise Berlinski, 31, used a ruse to enter the home of Martin Bottom Jr. on May 12. Bottom Jr. said Berlinski arrived at his home, and he confronted her about a prior theft at his home. Berlinksi,

2nd suspect in Paisley home invasion nabbed Tuesday Read More »

Eustis man killed in early morning wrong-way crash

ZELLWOOD, Fla.—A Eustis man was killed early Sunday morning in a head-on crash, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 42-year-old Eustis man was driving a 2013 Kia Optima northbound in the southbound lanes of Orange Blossom Trail/U.S. Highway 441 approaching Jones Avenue just before 2:30 a.m., when he collided with a 2012 Toyota Rav 4 being driven by a 51-year-old Orlando woman. The Eustis man was transported to AdventHealth Apopka, where he was pronounced deceased; his next of kin has not been notified. The Orlando woman and her passenger, a 72-year-old woman, also of Orlando, were transported to Orlando

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Suspect in Mount Dora slayings mentally incompetent, judge rules

TAVARES, Fla.—The woman suspected of brutally murdering an elderly Mount Dora couple “is incompetent to proceed” to her murder trial due to her mental illness, Lake Circuit Judge Cary Rada ruled earlier this week. Vickie Lynn Williams, 51,  is accused of stabbing Darryl Getman, 83, and Sharon Getman, 80. The married couple was murdered in their Waterman Village home sometime between the hours of 11 p.m. Dec. 30, 2022, and 2 a.m. Dec. 31, 2022. After murdering the couple, Williams stole their green Kia Soul and was still driving it when she was apprehended by a Savannah Police Department officer

Suspect in Mount Dora slayings mentally incompetent, judge rules Read More »

Deputies OK after Clermont woman sprays them with chemical during well-being check

CLERMONT, Fla.—Four Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies are OK after being doused with a substance Friday by a woman while they performed a well-being check, according to an arrest affidavit. Deputies arrived at an apartment in unincorporated Clermont after a father requested a well-being check on his small child. The child’s age and address are redacted from the affidavit. They attempted to contact Crystal Lorraine Velez, 36, at her apartment and she did not answer the door. They found the door was unlocked but barricaded and “due to concerns for persons inside the apartment” they removed the barricade, entered the

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Leesburg selects 30-year veteran as new police chief

LEESBURG—Joe Iozzi, a 30-year veteran of Leesburg Police Department has been named as the city’s new top cop. Iozzi replaces Rob Hicks, who was promoted earlier this month to deputy city manager. Iozzi began his career at LPD in 1994 and has served as bureau commander for Uniformed Services and Special Services and Investigations. He has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from Columbia College and has completed the FBI National Academy, the Southern Police Institute Administrative Officers Course at the University of Louisville and Florida Police Chiefs Association’s “Future Chiefs” seminar. Iozzi has been a command officer for

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Man returns to Tavares business day after he was trespassed, punches cop in the mouth

TAVARES, Fla.—A 69-year-old man is being held in the Lake County Jail on $6,000 bond, accused of returning to a business he was trespassed from the day before and punching a Tavares Police Department officer in the mouth when he tried to take him into custody. Shortly before 3 p.m. Friday, TPD responded to Japan Express, 456 East Burleigh Boulevard, in reference to Michael Stanley Bomber returning to the restaurant after he had been trespassed, according to a report. The officer approached Bomber, confirmed his name and asked if he was aware of the trespass he was issued Thursday night.

Man returns to Tavares business day after he was trespassed, punches cop in the mouth Read More »

National Safe Boating Week kicks off Saturday

LITTLE LAKE HARRIS, Fla.—The unofficial start to summer is upon us and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is reminding boaters to stay safe during National Safe Boating Week that begins Saturday. Inside Lake had the opportunity to speak with FWC’s Kristen Turner and Chad Weber, along with Hunter Bland of the National Safe Boating Council Friday about staying safe on the waterways. Florida is the “Boating Capital of the World,” with more than 1 million vessels registered in the state, according to FWC. Florida does have some requirements for boating but common sense and taking simple precautions

National Safe Boating Week kicks off Saturday Read More »

Eustis Police investigating apparent suicide at Eustis gas station

EUSTIS, Fla.—Eustis Police Department is investigating after a body was found Thursday morning at a busy gas station and police believe it was a suicide. “It appears to be a suicide and there is no danger to the public,” EPD Chief Craig Capri told Inside Lake. The body of a male in his 30s was found by a store employee around 9 a.m. Thursday in the area of the dumpster at 7-Eleven, 2002 North Highway 19, EPD Capt. Jon Fahning said. His name has not been released, pending notification of next of kin. If you are struggling or having suicidal

Eustis Police investigating apparent suicide at Eustis gas station Read More »

Woman wanted for home invasion, impersonating law enforcement in custody

PAISLEY, Fla.—The woman accused of a weekend home invasion near Paisley is in the Lake County Jail on no bond. Kayla Louise Berlinski, 31, of Paisley, was taken into custody Monday night, two hours after Inside Lake published its story on the incident that occurred around 12:30 p.m. Sunday. Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a home near Paisley after a friend who checks on Marvin Bottom Jr. regularly, reported finding him bound with zip ties. Bottom Jr. said Berlinski arrived at his home Sunday, and he confronted her about a prior theft at his home. Berlinksi, wearing both

Woman wanted for home invasion, impersonating law enforcement in custody Read More »

Applications for Leesburg’s Summer Youth Employment Program due Friday

LEESBURG—The City of Leesburg’s human resources department will be accepting applications until Friday for its Summer Youth Employment program. At City Hall, Third Floor, 501 West Meadow Street, Leesburg. Lake County residents ages 15 to 18, who are currently enrolled in high school or a GED program or are a 2024 high school graduate are eligible to apply. The program runs June 10 to July 26 and the jobs pay $13 per hour. For information, call 352-787-9786 ext. 1200 or email city.employment@leesburgfl.gov

Applications for Leesburg’s Summer Youth Employment Program due Friday Read More »

Mount Dora to unveil sculpture by Joaquin Restrepo Wednesday

MOUNT DORA— The public is invited to the unveiling of “Temet Nosce,” a sculpture by international artist Joaquín Restrepo. Mount Dora Center for the Arts, in partnership with the City of Mount Dora has scheduled the unveiling for 5 p.m. Wednesday at Simpson Cove. “Temet Nosce,” meaning “Know Thyself,” has been displayed in various countries and prominent cities around the world. Inspired by Carl Jung’s analytical psychology, the sculpture features intertwined heads that represent the complexity of identity, topped with a structure resembling a cage, symbolizing the self-imposed barriers to personal growth.

Mount Dora to unveil sculpture by Joaquin Restrepo Wednesday Read More »

Lake County Schools high school graduations scheduled for this week and next week

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—Caps will be flying through the air this week and next as Lake County Schools seniors say goodbye to high school and hello to adulthood. Graduations are scheduled to begin Tuesday with Tavares High School and will end with Lake County Virtual School next week. Schools are listed below in alphabetical order. East Ridge High School—9 a.m. Wednesday at UCF/Addition Arena Eustis High School—9 a.m. Saturday, at Eustis High School Panther Stadium Lake County Virtual School—6 p.m. May 23, at Mount Dora High School Auditorium Lake Hills School—occurred May 1 at Lake Hills Gymnasium Lake Minneola High School—7 p.m. Friday at UCF/Addition

Lake County Schools high school graduations scheduled for this week and next week Read More »

Pair wanted for zip-tying Paisley man and invading his home Sunday, 1 suspect accused of impersonating police officer

PAISLEY, Fla.—A man and a woman are wanted by Lake County Sheriff’s Office detectives after a Paisley man was found bound with zip ties in his home Sunday afternoon. LCSO responded to the home after someone reported finding the man with his hands bound behind his back, shortly before 12:30 p.m. Sunday, according to a probable cause affidavit. The victim, Marvin Bottom Jr., said Kayla Berlinski, arrived at his home Sunday and he confronted her about $30 he believed she stole from him on a prior visist to his home. Berlinksi, wearing both a jacket and a hat emblazoned with

Pair wanted for zip-tying Paisley man and invading his home Sunday, 1 suspect accused of impersonating police officer Read More »

Pedestrian killed in Sumter crash Friday morning

SUMTER COUNTY, Fla.—A pedestrian was killed Friday morning after being struck by an SUV and a cement truck, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The pedestrian, who has not been identified, was attempting to walk across State Road 44, near County Road 229, shortly before 6 a.m. when he was struck by a Land Rover Range Rover being driven westbound by a 42-year-old Leesburg man. He was then struck a second time by a cement truck being driven by a 29-year-old man, also of Leesburg, FHP said. The pedestrian was pronounced deceased on the scene.

Pedestrian killed in Sumter crash Friday morning Read More »

FDLE arrests Mount Dora man on child pornography charges

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—A Mount Dora man is facing 10 counts of possession of child pornography following a search warrant at his Natoma Boulevard home Wednesday, according to an arrest affidavit. Agents with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) executed a search warrant at the home of Tyler James Hammond, 29, “in furtherance of an investigation” into an electronic device at the home being used to download child pornography, the affidavit states. During an interview, Hammond reportedly admitted he had seen child pornography files using Kik, a messaging application, on his phone that was located in his bedroom. Agents looked

FDLE arrests Mount Dora man on child pornography charges Read More »

Head-on collision kills Clermont man Wednesday morning

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—A Clermont man was killed Wednesday morning after the car he was driving hit an SUV head-on near Clermont, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The Clermont man, 52, was driving a 2018 Nissan Maxima eastbound on Schofield Road when he failed to maintain his lane and struck a 2001 Jeep Grand Cherokee head-on that was traveling westbound on Schofield Road near Five Mile Road, around 6:30 a.m. The impact caused both vehicles to overturn several times, FHP said. The Clermont man was pronounced deceased on the scene. The Grand Cherokee’s driver, a 39-year-old Orlando man, was airlifted

Head-on collision kills Clermont man Wednesday morning Read More »

Lady Lake honors young artists at Monday’s commission meeting

LADY LAKE—The Town of Lady Lake hosted its annual Water Conservation Poster Contest awards presentation during the Town Commission meeting on Monday. The event showcased the talent of first, second, and third-grade students from The Villages Elementary of Lady Lake, who submitted posters. Under the theme “One Water, One Earth,” young artists explored innovative ways to promote water conservation through their artwork. Brittany Wendt, art teacher at The Villages Elementary, played a pivotal role in nurturing the students’ artistic endeavors. Nine winning posters were selected, and the winners were honored with gift cards, gift bags, and medals. Their artwork will

Lady Lake honors young artists at Monday’s commission meeting Read More »

Troopers investigating fatal crash near Clermont Wednesday morning

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that killed at least one person Wednesday morning. The crash occurred on Schofield Road near 5 Mile Road near Clermont around 6:30 a.m. Wednesday and troopers have shut down a portion of Schofield Road. This is a developing story. 

Troopers investigating fatal crash near Clermont Wednesday morning Read More »

Coffee with Lady Lake Town Manager scheduled for next week

LADY LAKE—Coffee with the Town Manager is scheduled for 10 a.m. Monday at Lady Lake Library. Lady Lake Town Manager Bill Lawrence will be at Lady Lake Library, 225 West Guava St. for a casual conversation discussing town services, news and events. Enjoy coffee and light snacks provided by Friends of the Lady Lake Library. RSVP: https://www.facebook.com/events/1095441401906996/

Coffee with Lady Lake Town Manager scheduled for next week Read More »

Wrong-way driver busted with nitrous oxide by Tavares police

TAVARES, Fla.—A wrong-way driver who caught the attention of a Tavares Police Department officer Sunday was arrested for possession of four canisters of nitrous oxide, commonly known as “whippets,” according to a report. Just before noon Sunday, a TPD officer was parked at Lake County Schools on Burleigh Boulevard when she spotted a grey SUV traveling eastbound in a westbound lane, causing other drivers to swerve into the median and switch lanes, a report states. The officer activated her lights and sirens and caught up to the SUV around Banning Beach Road, where it pulled over in the middle of

Wrong-way driver busted with nitrous oxide by Tavares police Read More »

5th Annual Lake County Back the Blue and Red Walk

Photos from the 5th Annual Back the Blue and Red Walk. Organizer Shannon Cook has been supporting law enforcement since 2019 with this walk. This year, firefighters were added to the event, and the name was changed. PHOTOS: Bonnie Whicher/Special to Inside Lake

5th Annual Lake County Back the Blue and Red Walk Read More »

Mount Dora police searching for young man last seen Friday night

Update: Nathaniel Woods was found safe in Ocala.  MOUNT DORA, Fla.—Mount Dora Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a young man who was last seen Friday night. Nathaniel E. Woods, 23, was reported missing around 9 a.m. Sunday and was last seen Friday evening by family members, MDPD said in a missing person bulletin posted on its social media account. Woods is described as a black male, 5 feet, 10 inches tall, 150 pounds with brown eyes, and bald. He is believed to be driving a grey Pontiac sedan, license plate 86BHZC. If you have information on

Mount Dora police searching for young man last seen Friday night Read More »

Deputies investigating exchange of gunfire near Mount Dora Thursday

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an incident that involved the occupants of two vehicles apparently shooting at each other Thursday afternoon in unincorporated Mount Dora. LCSO responded to Old Eustis Road around 5 pm. Thursday after someone reported shots were fired in the area, according to a report. A witness told a deputy he was outside when he heard what he believed to be fireworks. He then saw a silver midsize sedan traveling eastbound and what appeared to be a longer style gun firing shots from behind the car at a “metallic deep blue” truck traveling

Deputies investigating exchange of gunfire near Mount Dora Thursday Read More »

5th Annual Lake County Back the Blue (and Red) Walk scheduled for Saturday; Firefighters added this year

TAVARES, Florida—For the fifth year in a row, law enforcement and supporters will join forces for the annual Lake County Back the Blue Walk at Wooton Park Saturday morning, and this year firefighters will join the fun.  Scheduled for 9 a.m., this is one of many law enforcement events around Lake County held in May during Law Enforcement Appreciation Month and this year, Organizer Shannon Cook wanted to add firefighters to the appreciation walk to coincide with the Lake County Board of County Commissioners proclaiming May 4 “International Firefighters’ Day” in Lake County, she told Inside Lake. “I figured what

5th Annual Lake County Back the Blue (and Red) Walk scheduled for Saturday; Firefighters added this year Read More »

Leesburg police chief promoted to deputy city manager

LEESBURG—After more than three decades in law enforcement, Leesburg Police Chief Robert Hicks is putting away the badge and will begin serving as Leesburg’s deputy city manager next week. Hicks has been with the City of Leesburg for 28 years and served as police chief for the last ten years. He is an Army combat veteran, has a bachelor’s degree in organizational management from Warner University and Master of Business Administration from Columbia Southern University. Leesburg Police Department Major Steve Rockefeller will serve as interim police chief while the city searches nationwide for a new chief. Multiple internal candidates are

Leesburg police chief promoted to deputy city manager Read More »

Orlando Health South Lake Hospital receives 12th consecutive “A” grade for patient safety

CLERMONT— Orlando Health South Lake Hospital has earned its 12th consecutive ‘A’ grade from the Leapfrog Group, an independent nonprofit organization committed to driving quality, safety and transparency in the U.S. health system. “Providing a safe, quality experience for patients is at the core of what our team does every day, no matter the unit or department,” said Lance Sewell, senior vice president, Orlando Health North Central Region and president, Orlando Health South Lake Hospital. “To achieve 12 ‘A’ grades in a row is a gratifying recognition of the seamless collaboration and teamwork that occurs between our providers, clinicians and

Orlando Health South Lake Hospital receives 12th consecutive “A” grade for patient safety Read More »

Former Tavares police officer nabbed on Volusia County burglary, theft charges

TAVARES, Fla.—A former Tavares police officer is being held in the Lake County Jail on $171,000 bond, accused of burglarizing $50,000 worth of jewelry, along with credit and debit cards from a Volusia County home earlier this week. Theodore “Teddy” Pearl, 28, is accused of stealing numerous pieces of jewelry from a home in DeBary that belonged to the grandparents of a juvenile friend of his, according to a Volusia Sheriff’s Office (VSO) charging affidavit. VSO responded to the home on River Drive Monday when one of the homeowners reported her home had been burglarized while she and her husband

Former Tavares police officer nabbed on Volusia County burglary, theft charges Read More »

Man who threw the “Dew” at Tavares store clerk turns himself in

TAVARES, Fla.—A man who threw a bottle of Mountain Dew at a Tavares gas station clerk earlier this month turned himself in on a warrant for battery Tuesday, according to Tavares Police Department. On April 13, TPD responded to Kangaroo, 933 County Road 48 on a report of a battery. The complainant told officers a male customer was upset about difficulties with a self-checkout and a second clerk went to a register to begin ringing up customers. The man, later identified as Scott Francis May, began complaining about the wait, and said, “This is (expletive) ridiculous,” according to a report.

Man who threw the “Dew” at Tavares store clerk turns himself in Read More »

Tavares Police investigating after young woman falls from 8th floor of parking garage

TAVARES, Fla.—A young woman was airlifted to an area hospital after falling from the 8th floor of the Tavares parking garage Wednesday afternoon, according to Tavares Police Department. TPD is on scene and still investigating, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake. “It’s too soon to tell if she jumped or fell,” Sullivan said. This is a developing story.

Tavares Police investigating after young woman falls from 8th floor of parking garage Read More »

Domestic violence incident ends in “high-risk” traffic stop and arrest in downtown Eustis Wednesday night

EUSTIS, Fla.—A man accused of a domestic battery was arrested Wednesday night in downtown Eustis after leaving the scene of the incident with his mother. Eustis Police Department responded to a home near the Lake County Fairgrounds around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday on a report of physical domestic altercation and possible kidnapping. As officers arrived, dispatch advised the children were no longer in the car that left the scene, and the victim told officers all her children were at the home and not in the vehicle with her ex-husband. She said her youngest son was in the car with him, but

Domestic violence incident ends in “high-risk” traffic stop and arrest in downtown Eustis Wednesday night Read More »

Tavares brothers-in-law found safe in Miami

TAVARES, Fla.—The two Tavares men reported missing have been found, according to Tavares Police Department. Richard Weis, 85, and his brother-in-law Charles Constable, 67, were located in Miami and are alive and safe, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake. No other information was available at press time. Previous story: Silver Alert issued for 2 Tavares men – Inside Lake

Tavares brothers-in-law found safe in Miami Read More »

Major law enforcement presence in missing Mount Dora mom’s former neighborhood Friday

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—Multiple law enforcement agencies could be seen Friday searching multiple bodies of water in the neighborhood where Mount Dora mom Nicole Baldwin was reported missing in November 2023. Dive teams from several Central Florida sheriff’s offices converged on Lancaster at Loch Leven beginning around 8 a.m. Friday and searched multiple bodies of water and retention ponds near Strathmore Circle where Baldwin was reported missing by her daughter Alisha Baldwin in early November 2023, Mount Dora Police Department Spokesperson Misty Sommer told Inside Lake Friday. Dive teams from Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, Marion County Sheriff’s

Major law enforcement presence in missing Mount Dora mom’s former neighborhood Friday Read More »

Silver Alert issued for 2 Tavares men

Update: Richard Weis, 85, and his brother-in-law Charles Constable, 67, were located in Miami and are alive and safe. TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is searching for two men who were last seen in Altamonte Springs around 1:30 p.m. Thursday, according to TPD Spokesperson Courtney Sullivan Tavares residents Richard Weis, 85, and his brother-in-law Charles Constable, 67, are believed to be traveling in a grey 2019 Jeep Cherokee Limited with license plate Z7XKE and dark tinted windows and a “Sheriffs 2024” sticker on the driver side rear window. Weis has undiagnosed dementia and is described as 5 feet, 8 inches tall,

Silver Alert issued for 2 Tavares men Read More »

Tavares motorcyclist killed in Leesburg crash Saturday

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Tavares motorcyclist was killed Saturday afternoon after a car pulled out of a Leesburg gas station and collided with him on U.S. Highway 441, according to Leesburg Police Department Capt. Joe Iozzi. William Clough, 65, was riding a 2015 Harley-Davidson southbound on U.S. Highway 441 near Tomato Hill Road when Bettyrose Knittle, 88, of Fruitland Park, pulled out of RaceTrac and struck Clough around 5 p.m., Iozzi said. Clough was seriously injured and transported by ground to UF Health Leesburg Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Traffic was diverted around crash for approximately three hours, according

Tavares motorcyclist killed in Leesburg crash Saturday Read More »

Multiple law enforcement agencies search for missing Mount Dora mom Saturday

EUSTIS, Fla.—Only Inside Lake was on the scene as a large search was conducted Saturday by multiple law enforcement agencies for Mount Dora missing mom Nicole Baldwin. Law enforcement officers and volunteers searched areas near the east side of Eustis for Baldwin, who has been missing since early November 2023. Inside Lake witnessed searchers on foot, along with additional searchers on ATVs and horses. The search spanned several hours and ended early in the afternoon Saturday. The search was planned for at least several weeks and a search of that magnitude involves a lot of preparation to coordinate with multiple

Multiple law enforcement agencies search for missing Mount Dora mom Saturday Read More »

Teen arrested for killing family cat in dryer Monday

MINNEOLA, Fla.—A teenager is facing a charge of animal cruelty—excessively cruel, after putting the family cat in the dryer and killing it, according to an arrest affidavit. Shortly before 6 p.m. Monday, Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a home on Plum Lake Drive in Minneola on a report of a suspicious incident. When they arrived, the mother of Cayden Mikkel Williams told a deputy her son had just killed the family cat, named “Mouse” by putting it in the dryer. She said when she was coming into the neighborhood with her other children, she saw Williams walking and

Teen arrested for killing family cat in dryer Monday Read More »

Man suspected of battering woman at Eustis grocery store apprehended Thursday

EUSTIS, Fla.—A man who was wanted for battery by one law enforcement agency and wanted for questioning by another was apprehended Thursday by Eustis Police Department. According to an arrest affidavit, Deon Otis Grant, 18, was arrested for simple battery stemming from an incident Sunday at Winn Dixie, 1955 North State Road 19, Eustis. Around 5 p.m. EPD responded to the grocery store after the victim reported she was “inappropriately touched,” by a black male, later identified as Grant. She told officers she arrived at the store around 4:30 p.m. and noticed Grant “wandering” around the store without a shopping

Man suspected of battering woman at Eustis grocery store apprehended Thursday Read More »

Tavares double stabbing suspect turns himself in to US Marshals Tuesday

TAVARES, Fla.—The man accused of stabbing a father and son Sunday was taken into custody Tuesday by U.S. Marshals, according to Tavares Police Department. Daryl Shack, Jr., 34, is accused of stabbing Frederick “Lee” Crawford II, 55, and Frederick “Trey” Crawford, 30, around 2 p.m. Sunday. Both victims were airlifted to local hospitals for treatment and the elder Crawford is in critical condition and his son is in critical, but stable condition, TPD Spokesperson Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake. Shack fled the scene following the double-stabbing and TPD obtained a warrant for his arrest the same night. Shack agreed to

Tavares double stabbing suspect turns himself in to US Marshals Tuesday Read More »

Former teacher found guilty of sexually battering foreign exchange student in ’23

TAVARES, Fla.—A former high school teacher has been found guilty of sexually battering a foreign exchange student last year, along with other charges related to the incident. A Lake County jury found Dmitri V. Kostyunina, 51, guilty of contributing to the delinquency of a minor, delivery of cannabis to a person under 18 and sexual battery last week in Tavares, according to Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney Bill Gladson’s office. Kostyunina was employed as a science teacher at Apopka High School when he was arrested in October 2023 after the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) contacted Mount Dora Police Department

Former teacher found guilty of sexually battering foreign exchange student in ’23 Read More »

Father and son stabbed in Tavares Sunday, suspect on the run

TAVARES, Fla.—A father and son were both airlifted to local hospitals Sunday afternoon after being stabbed during an argument, according to Courtney Sullivan, Tavares Police Department Public Information Officer. TPD responded to an “unknown medical call” in the 700 block of North Disston Avenue shortly before 2 p.m. Sunday. When they arrived, they found Frederick “Lee” Crawford II, 55, and Frederick “Trey” Crawford III, 30, suffering from stab wounds, and both men were airlifted for treatment. “Lee” Crawford was in extremely critical condition at press time with life-threatening injuries and “Tray” Crawford was in critical condition, Sullivan said. The suspect

Father and son stabbed in Tavares Sunday, suspect on the run Read More »

Tavares Police searching for driver who hit pedestrian and fled Saturday night

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is searching for a hit-and-run driver who fled the scene after striking a pedestrian Saturday night. A man was crossing the street at State Road 19 and County Road 561 at 8:53 p.m., near McDonald’s, when a vehicle hit him, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said.  That vehicle stopped, but a second vehicle, believed to be a white Ford F-150 or an F-250, hit the man a second time and fled southbound on County Road 561, according to Sullivan. The man suffered non-life-threatening injuries; his name has not been released. If you have information on

Tavares Police searching for driver who hit pedestrian and fled Saturday night Read More »

FHP searching for suspect who carjacked Groveland man on I-75

HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla.— The Florida Highway Patrol is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a man who carjacked a Groveland man on Interstate 75 early Friday morning. Around 2 a.m. Friday, a 38-year-old-old Groveland man, working as a supervisor for American Medical Response (AMR,) found a crashed pickup truck on the southbound I-75 exit ramp to westbound Interstate 4. The truck was later found to be stolen, according to FHP. The Groveland man encountered a man who immediately fled on foot and then saw a second man standing in the road. The second man then jumped on the side of

FHP searching for suspect who carjacked Groveland man on I-75 Read More »

Astatula Police corporal suspended following domestic battery arrest

ASTATULA, Fla.—An Astatula Police Department corporal is suspended and under internal investigation following an arrest for domestic battery last week. Erick Capraun, 50, who has been with APD since 2016, was arrested by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office after his girlfriend said he had been drinking and pushed her Thursday afternoon. She told deputies when she walked into the house in unincorporated Leesburg, Capraun started yelling at her over financial issues and pushed her in the shoulder. The argument ensued and he reportedly said, “stupid (expletive) I’m going to lose my dog.” Capraun did serve as a K9 handler for

Astatula Police corporal suspended following domestic battery arrest Read More »

Fatal crash shuts down 2 roads near Howey-in-the-Hills

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS, Fla.— A 73-year-old woman was killed Tuesday morning after a semi pulled out in front of her on State Road 19, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 7 a.m., a 43-year-old Palm Springs man was driving a semi eastbound on O’Brien Road; he attempted to make a left turn on State Road 19 and pulled out in front of a 2017 Toyota 4-Runner being driven by a Howey-in-the-Hills woman. The SUV t-boned the semi’s trailer and the Howey-in-the-Hills woman was transported to a local hospital where she was pronounced deceased. The Palm Springs man was not injured. At

Fatal crash shuts down 2 roads near Howey-in-the-Hills Read More »

Man apologizes for having sex with minor in recorded phone call, facing 13 charges

MINNEOLA, Fla.— An elementary school custodian was arrested last week after an underage girl told her guardian she had sex with him a few days before, according to an arrest affidavit. The girl told Lake County Sheriff’s Office detectives James Pacheco, 19, of Minneola, told her he was 17 years old and a student in Groveland after they began communicating in January after meeting on Snapchat. On March 12, the girl, whose age is redacted from the affidavit, went to Pacheco’s Minneola home where they had consensual sex, she said. She said the encounter was painful, but she did not

Man apologizes for having sex with minor in recorded phone call, facing 13 charges Read More »

Clermont woman who was “acting strange and talking about having premonitions” arrested for killing husband

CLERMONT, Fla.—A woman is facing a first-degree murder charge after shooting and killing her husband late Sunday night, according to an arrest affidavit. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded to 10649 Lake Ralph Drive in unincorporated Clermont just before 10:10 p.m. on a report of a homicide and when they arrived, the complainant whose name is redacted from the affidavit, escorted a deputy into the home where Maria Jose Rodriguez, 40, was sitting in the dining room. She was secured in handcuffs and placed in a patrol vehicle and deputies then found her husband, Andrew Rodriguez, 40, lying on his

Clermont woman who was “acting strange and talking about having premonitions” arrested for killing husband Read More »

No charges expected in Eustis shooting Sunday

EUSTIS, Fla.—The man who shot his cousin Sunday in a dispute over a vehicle repair likely won’t be charged, according to Eustis Police Department. Jamaal Jones, 32, got into a dispute with his cousin, Devante Simmons, 31, over Jones repairing Simmons’ transmission, EPD Sgt. Paul Barnett told Inside Lake. The altercation led to Jones shooting Simmons after warning him several times, Barnett said. Simmons was shot in the left upper thigh and transported to HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital in Sanford with non-life-threatening injuries. Previous story: BREAKING NEWS: Eustis Police investigating after dispute between cousins ends in shooting – Inside

No charges expected in Eustis shooting Sunday Read More »

BREAKING NEWS: Eustis Police investigating after dispute between cousins ends in shooting

EUSTIS, Fla.—One man is in custody and one man is in the hospital after a dispute between cousins ended in a shooting Sunday, according to Eustis Police Department Chief Craig Capri. The incident occurred around noon Sunday at 210 West Stevens Avenue near Titcomb Street. Police had not released names at press time, and Capri said detectives are investigating whether the incident was a case of self-defense. The victim suffered a non-life-threatening injury and was transported to HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital in Sanford. This is a developing story. 

BREAKING NEWS: Eustis Police investigating after dispute between cousins ends in shooting Read More »

Leesburg search warrant takes multiple guns and trafficking amounts of drugs of the streets

LEESBURG, Fla.—A search warrant earlier this week took multiple guns and trafficking amounts of drugs off the street and landed a Leesburg man in jail whose criminal history dates back 26 years, according to an arrest affidavit. Around 8 p.m. Tuesday, the Lake County Sherriff’s Office Special Investigations Unit (SIU,) LCSO SWAT, Homeland Security agents and detectives with Clermont, Eustis, Leesburg and Mount Dora police departments executed a search warrant at 2519 Myer Ave., Leesburg and found Walter Canady, 43, sitting in the driver’s seat of a vehicle in the driveway and 12 other people at the home. Upon searching

Leesburg search warrant takes multiple guns and trafficking amounts of drugs of the streets Read More »

Injured motorcyclist files lawsuit against Mount Dora bar he says served alcoholic pedestrian involved in crash last summer

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—A motorcyclist thrown from his bike after striking a pedestrian who was standing in the middle of the road last summer has filed a lawsuit against the owners of the bar he says knowingly served an alcoholic before the fatal crash. According to the lawsuit, Jason Dean Bowlin, 42, was served “numerous alcoholic beverages while a patron at Big Dog Saloon” on or about Aug. 20, 2023. Around 12:45 a.m. Brandon Crunk was riding his 2021 Harley-Davidson westbound on County Road 19A near Progress Boulevard when he struck Bowlin who was standing in the middle of County Road

Injured motorcyclist files lawsuit against Mount Dora bar he says served alcoholic pedestrian involved in crash last summer Read More »

More charges for accused Eustis serial burglar

EUSTIS, Fla.—The man accused of multiple thefts in Eustis and Mount Dora beginning in October 2023 is now facing more charges, according to Eustis Police Department. Jordan Makuannen, 19, has been held in the Lake County Jail on no bond since he was arrested earlier this week after Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Polk County Sheriff’s Office deputies worked together and took him into custody after he bailed out of a stolen vehicle near the Lake County/Polk County line. Makuannen is now facing additional charges related to the stolen Dodge Durango he dumped at Club at Eustis Apartments March

More charges for accused Eustis serial burglar Read More »

Leesburg woman arrested after boy tells his mom she touched him while he was sleeping

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office quickly arrested a Leesburg woman early Saturday morning after a boy told his mother she inappropriately touched him while he was sleeping. LCSO responded to a home in unincorporated Leesburg after the boy’s mom reported her son had called her “in a complete panic” and said he woke up to Anna Jackson, 38, rubbing his genitals and inner thigh, according to an arrest affidavit. The boy, whose name is redacted because he is the victim of a sex crime, is between 12 and 15 years old, his exact age is also redacted. He told

Leesburg woman arrested after boy tells his mom she touched him while he was sleeping Read More »

Jacksonville man accused of stealing SUV from Fruitland Park business and fighting Tavares cops last week

TAVARES, Fla.—A Jacksonville man is being held in the Lake County Jail after being accused of stealing a vehicle from a business in Fruitland Park, fleeing from a Tavares Police Department officer and fighting that officer and another one last week. Nigel Jaylen Sabb, 28, is accused of stealing a 2014 Ford Edge from Honest Autos, 2381 U.S. Highway 441, Fruitland Park around 9 a.m. Wednesday, according to a Fruitland Park Police Department arrest affidavit. A representative of the business told FPPD a customer dropped off the vehicle for some cosmetic repairs and left the keys in the exterior door

Jacksonville man accused of stealing SUV from Fruitland Park business and fighting Tavares cops last week Read More »

Man arrested last year for multiple thefts in Eustis nabbed by deputies after bailing out of stolen SUV in South Lake early Monday

CLERMONT, Fla.—A man wanted for failure to appear in court for crimes in 2023 and now suspected of committing recent thefts in Eustis and Mount Dora, was apprehended after a Polk County license plate reader hit on the stolen SUV he was driving early Monday morning. According to an arrest affidavit, around 4:45 a.m. Monday, the Polk County license plate reader hit on a black Honda SUV that was stolen in Mount Dora and Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) deputies located it traveling northbound on U.S. Highway 27 near U.S 192, approaching the Lake County line. PCSO’s Aviation Unit observed

Man arrested last year for multiple thefts in Eustis nabbed by deputies after bailing out of stolen SUV in South Lake early Monday Read More »

LCSO: No apparent foul play in death of man Friday

LEESBURG, Fla.—Authorities have released the name of the man pronounced dead at a Leesburg gas station Friday and they do not believe his death was the result of foul play, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Dispatchers at Leesburg Police Department received a call from a person attempting to drive someone to the hospital Friday afternoon and they were instructed to pull over if they needed medical assistance, LCSO Cpl. Chanel Martin told Inside Lake Friday. Leesburg Police Department Capt. Joe Iozzi said investigators determined the incident began in LCSO’s jurisdiction and LCSO took over the investigation. The driver

LCSO: No apparent foul play in death of man Friday Read More »

FHP searching for Honda that intentionally hit Leesburg motorcyclist in I-75 road rage incident

SUMTER COUNTY, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is searching for a gray or silver Honda Civic that intentionally rammed a motorcycle on Interstate 75 just after midnight Friday. A 52-year-old Leesburg man was riding a motorcycle near mile marker 319 in a northbound lane and passed a commercial vehicle on the outside shoulder while the Civic passed in the center lane, according to FHP. After the Civic and the motorcycle had passed the commercial vehicle, the driver of the Civic “abruptly steered to the outside shoulder and rammed the motorcycle intentionally,” FHP said in a press release. Video of a road

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LCSO investigating after EMS pronounces person deceased at Leesburg gas station

Update: LCSO: No apparent foul play in death of man Friday – Inside Lake LEESBURG, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a death that occurred Friday. Dispatchers at Leesburg Police Department received a call from a person attempting to drive someone to the hospital and they were instructed to pull over if they needed medical assistance, LCSO Cpl. Chanel Martin told Inside Lake. They pulled over at Wawa, 1400 North Boulevard, Leesburg and when EMS arrived, they found a person was deceased, Martin said. Leesburg Police Department Capt. Joe Iozzi said investigators determined the incident began in LCSO’s jurisdiction

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Clermont man accused of exposing himself to minor in store parking lot in February

CLERMONT, Fla.—An 18-year-old man is scheduled to be arraigned later this month on a charge of lewd and lascivious exhibition after being accused of exposing himself to a minor female in the parking lot of a busy store in February. On Feb. 23, the girl told a Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputy she walked up to the vehicle she was riding in the parking lot of Kohl’s, 12305 U.S. Highway 27, Clermont when Ismael Torres Marchany, of Clermont, “startled her.” She said Marchany was making a “hissing” sound and when she turned around, he was exposing and touching himself, according

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Eustis man held on no bond after baseball bat attack

EUSTIS, Fla.—A baseball bat attack sent one man to the hospital by helicopter and another man to the Lake County Jail, late Sunday night, according to an arrest affidavit. Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Waycross Avenue and Gables Drive, near Eustis around 10:30 p.m. Sunday after a witness reported she saw a man, later identified as Jamie Hoover Locklear, 41, strike another man in the head with a black metal baseball bat. When deputies arrived, they found a man, who was not publicly identified, suffering from a “severe laceration” on his head, approximately 3 inches long, the affidavit

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Dad Arrested for DUI Crash that Killed 2 Toddler Sons and Injured Another Son on Easter Eve ’22

TAVARES, Fla.—A father is in the Lake County Jail on no bond after being arrested for DUI manslaughter, vehicular homicide and operating a vehicle without a driver license causing death, stemming from a crash that killed his two young sons on Easter Eve in 2022. David Shawn Pelfrey, 22, was picked up at his home in Fruitland Park on a warrant Thursday, nearly two years after the crash that killed his young sons, Damian and Dominic and seriously injured their younger brother Daylen. Inside Lake spoke with the boys’ mom, Miranda Martin, by text Monday and she said Daylen is

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