Unincorporated Lake Archives

Deputies searching for two suspects in armed robbery at Tavares-area internet casino

TAVARES, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is asking for help identifying two men suspected in an armed robbery at an internet casino Saturday morning. The robbery occurred around 9 a.m. at an internet casino in River Plaza in unincorporated Tavares, LCSO said. Anyone who recognizes either man or has information about the robbery is asked to call LCSO at 352-343-2101, email tips@lcso.org or call Crimeline at 1-800-423-8477, reference case number 260113122.

Deputies searching for two suspects in armed robbery at Tavares-area internet casino Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 26, 2026

Homemade vehicle crashes into fences, tree, killing Paisley man

PAISLEY, Fla. — A 67-year-old Paisley man was killed and an Apopka woman was injured when a homemade vehicle struck two fences and a tree Sunday afternoon, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The man was driving a 1995 assembled homemade vehicle eastbound on Poinsettia Avenue approaching Oleander Street around 3:45 p.m. when he lost control, FHP said. The vehicle ran off the left side of the road, reentered the roadway and then ran off the right side, striking a chain-link fence, a barbed-wire fence and a tree. The driver was pronounced deceased at the scene. His passenger, a 26-year-old

Homemade vehicle crashes into fences, tree, killing Paisley man Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 25, 2026

Paisley man charged with meth trafficking after deputies find suspicious liquid in Polar Pop cup

UMATILLA, Fla. — A Paisley man was arrested the day before his birthday after deputies found a liquid mixture weighing 419 grams that tested positive for methamphetamine inside a Polar Pop cup, according to an arrest affidavit. Jason Edward King, who turned 53 Thursday, was arrested early Wednesday on charges of trafficking in methamphetamine over 400 grams, possession of less than 20 grams of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and tampering with physical evidence. A Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputy spotted a white Chevrolet pickup stopped past the stop bar at County Road 450 and County Road 42 around midnight

Paisley man charged with meth trafficking after deputies find suspicious liquid in Polar Pop cup Read More »

Inside Scoop, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 22, 2026

Inside Lake’s guide to fall and Halloween events

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — Pumpkin patches, haunted trails, fall festivals and plenty of candy! Communities across Lake County have a full calendar of fall and Halloween events planned. Inside Lake will update this list as more events and details become available. Updated Oct. 7, 2026 Oct. 10–31: Pumpkin Patch | Fruitland Park Community United Methodist Church’s 24th annual pumpkin patch will offer pumpkins, gourds and new photo opportunities. Pumpkin sales benefit local children and youth. Time: Saturdays, 10 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sunday–Friday, 1–7 p.m. Location: Community United Methodist Church, 309 College Ave., Fruitland Park Cost: Pumpkins and gourds available for purchase.

Inside Lake’s guide to fall and Halloween events Read More »

Astatula, Clermont, Eustis, Fruitland Park, Groveland, Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg, Mascotte, Minneola, Montverde, Mount Dora, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 7, 2026

LCSO SWAT responds after man accused of firing rifle at brother near Groveland

9:20 p.m. update: The suspect was taken into custody without incident. GROVELAND, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office SWAT Team responded to a home near Groveland Tuesday after a man allegedly fired multiple rounds toward his brother during an argument. Deputies responded to 7023 State Road 33 around 12:15 p.m. and learned the brothers had argued over an allegation of theft, according to Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stephanie Earley The victim threw a ceramic bowl toward his brother as the argument escalated. The suspect then returned to his residence, retrieved a rifle and fired multiple rounds toward the

LCSO SWAT responds after man accused of firing rifle at brother near Groveland Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 29, 2026

Pedestrian killed, motorcyclist seriously injured in SR 429 crash

SORRENTO, Fla. — A pedestrian was killed and a motorcyclist was seriously injured in a crash on State Road 429 early Sunday, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. A 41-year-old Winter Garden man was riding a 2020 Harley-Davidson southbound in the outside lane near mile marker 42 shortly just after 12:45 a.m. when he struck a pedestrian in the roadway, FHP said. The pedestrian, a 26-year-old Carrollton, Georgia woman, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The motorcyclist, who was wearing a helmet, was transported to HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital in Sanford with serious injuries. The crash remains under investigation.

Pedestrian killed, motorcyclist seriously injured in SR 429 crash Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 27, 2026

Woman sentenced to life in prison in Leesburg fentanyl death

TAVARES, Fla. — A Umatilla woman was sentenced to life in prison last week for selling fentanyl that killed a Leesburg man in June 2021. Eleven days after his death, the woman’s 2-year-old daughter also died from fentanyl toxicity. A Lake County jury found Jalynn Nichole Davis, 41, guilty Thursday of death caused by the unlawful distribution of fentanyl. She was sentenced the same day to life in state prison with credit for 1,892 days served, court records show. The case stemmed from the June 2, 2021, death of Wesley Brown. Brown bought $20 worth of what he believed was

Woman sentenced to life in prison in Leesburg fentanyl death Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 22, 2026

Lake County Jail inmate accused of offering $5,000 to have witness killed

TAVARES, Fla. — A Clermont man jailed on an aggravated assault charge is accused of offering another inmate $5,000 to kill a witness in the case that led to his incarceration, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

Lake County Jail inmate accused of offering $5,000 to have witness killed Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 18, 2026

State Attorney’s Office finds Lake County deputy’s fatal shooting of Timotheus Reed lawful

LEESBURG, Fla. — A Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputy acted lawfully when he fatally shot Timotheus Reed while responding to a reported stabbing in April, according to a review released by the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office. The six-page review, dated Wednesday, concluded the deputy reasonably feared for his life when Reed allegedly ignored repeated commands, reached into his pocket and turned toward the deputy from approximately 10 feet away. The State Attorney’s Office closed the case without filing charges. Its review did not identify the deputy. The incident began at approximately 6:22 a.m. April 12 when a woman

State Attorney’s Office finds Lake County deputy’s fatal shooting of Timotheus Reed lawful Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 17, 2026

Clermont man fatally struck while crossing County Road 455

CLERMONT, Fla. — A 37-year-old Clermont man was killed Monday morning when he was struck by a car while walking in a marked crosswalk, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The man was walking east across County Road 455 just north of Great Lawn Way in unincorporated Clermont at 6:10 a.m. when 2019 Acura TLX traveling southbound struck him, FHP said. The driver, a 19-year-old Davenport woman, did not see the pedestrian in the crosswalk before the collision, according to FHP. She was not injured. The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash remains under investigation.

Clermont man fatally struck while crossing County Road 455 Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 14, 2026

LCSO investigating after skeletal remains found in Astor

ASTOR, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is in Astor investigating after possible human remains were found early Friday afternoon. Just before 12:45 p.m., LCSO received a report of possible skeletal remains found in a wooded area near Camp McQuarrie Road and State Road 40, Deputy Stephanie Earley said. Detectives and the Crime Scene Investigations unit are currently on scene investigating, Earley said. “At this time, we cannot confirm whether the remains are human. Additional information will be provided once the Medical Examiner has completed the examination and provided confirmation,” Earley said. “This is an active and ongoing investigation.”

LCSO investigating after skeletal remains found in Astor Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 11, 2026

Groveland man killed in wrong-way crash on State Road 33

GROVELAND, Fla. — A 22-year-old Groveland man was killed Wednesday morning after he struck a tractor-trailer head-on while driving the wrong way on State Road 33, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The Groveland man was driving a 2005 Ford Five Hundred southbound in the northbound lane of State Road 33, north of Edgewood Boys Ranch Road in unincorporated Groveland, just after 6 a.m. when he drove into the path of a 2012 Mack tractor-trailer driven by a 47-year-old Riverview man. The Riverview man swerved to the right in an attempt to avoid the Ford, but the vehicles collided head-on,

Groveland man killed in wrong-way crash on State Road 33 Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 9, 2026

Leo’s 2-day tree adventure ends as Lake County firefighters arrive to help

MOUNT DORA, Fla. — After spending two days stuck in a tree, Leo the orange cat finally made his way back to solid ground Tuesday morning, just as Lake County firefighters were preparing to rescue him. Leo belongs to 92-year-old George, who lives on Laura Lane in unincorporated Mount Dora. After the cat spent two days in the tree, a neighbor called Lake County Fire Rescue for help. Engine 27 responded around 10:40 a.m., and firefighters put up a ladder to reach Leo. But before they could make the climb, Leo came down on his own. “Lake County Fire Rescue

Leo’s 2-day tree adventure ends as Lake County firefighters arrive to help Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 8, 2026

Motorcyclist killed after crashing into tree on County Road 42

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — A 36-year-old Ormond Beach man was killed Wednesday afternoon when his motorcycle ran off County Road 42 and struck a tree, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The man was riding a 2022 Ducati motorcycle eastbound on County Road 42, west of Central Camp Road in the DeLand portion of Lake County, at 1:40 p.m. when he attempted to negotiate a curve to the left, FHP said. The motorcycle ran off the right side of the roadway onto the grass shoulder and struck a tree, according to FHP. The rider was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Motorcyclist killed after crashing into tree on County Road 42 Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 2, 2026

Lady Lake woman, 82, dies after being struck by SUV Tuesday night

LADY LAKE, Fla. — An 82-year-old Lady Lake woman died after she was struck by an SUV while walking along Vermont Avenue Tuesday evening, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The woman was walking west along the north portion of Vermont Avenue around 7:30 p.m. while an 83-year-old Lady Lake man driving a 2012 Dodge Journey was traveling westbound on Vermont Avenue approaching Wales Place, FHP said. The driver did not see the woman walking along the roadway, and the front right of the SUV struck her, according to FHP. The woman was transported to UF Health The Villages Hospital,

Lady Lake woman, 82, dies after being struck by SUV Tuesday night Read More »

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 2, 2026

911 calls reveal events leading up to fatal Lake County deputy-involved shooting

LEESBURG, Fla. — Three newly released 911 calls provided additional details about what was reported before and immediately after Lake County sheriff’s deputies fatally shot 32-year-old Erik Leopold Sharpe at a Leesburg-area home Aug. 20. The calls, obtained by Inside Lake, included two from the same caller at the home and a separate call from an air conditioning technician who was working there when the incident began. Information identifying the callers was redacted from the recordings. During the approximately 11-minute first call, a caller reported a domestic disturbance involving Sharpe and firearms at 10110 Morningside Drive. “We’re having a

911 calls reveal events leading up to fatal Lake County deputy-involved shooting Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 25, 2026

Bodycam footage released in fatal Lake County deputy-involved shooting near Leesburg

WARNING: The body camera videos below show a fatal deputy-involved shooting and may be disturbing to some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised. LEESBURG, Fla. — Newly released body camera footage shows the moments leading up to a fatal deputy-involved shooting near Leesburg that left a 32-year-old man dead Thursday afternoon. Erik Leopold Sharpe was killed after Lake County sheriff’s deputies responded to 10110 Morningside Drive just before 3 p.m. following a 911 call reporting an armed domestic battery. Body camera footage obtained by Inside Lake shows deputies approaching the residence with their weapons drawn and encountering Sharpe near the home,

Bodycam footage released in fatal Lake County deputy-involved shooting near Leesburg Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 24, 2026

Man killed in deputy-involved shooting near Leesburg identified

LEESBURG, Fla. — A man who was killed in a deputy-involved shooting near Leesburg Thursday afternoon has been identified as 32-year-old Erik Leopold Sharpe, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Just before 3 p.m., deputies responded to 10110 Morningside Drive after receiving a 911 call reporting an armed domestic battery. When they arrived, they were confronted by Sharpe, who was armed with a firearm, LCSO Sgt. Jim Vachon said. According to Vachon, Sharpe’s actions forced deputies to discharge their firearms. Sharpe was killed, and the deputies were not injured. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is investigating the shooting,

Man killed in deputy-involved shooting near Leesburg identified Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 21, 2026

Armed person confronts Lake County deputies during domestic call near Leesburg

LEESBURG, Fla. — Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responding to an armed domestic battery call near Leesburg discharged their firearms after being confronted by an armed person Thursday afternoon, according to LCSO. Just before 3 p.m., deputies responded to 10110 Morningside Drive after receiving a 911 call reporting an armed domestic battery. “Once our deputies arrived, they were confronted with an individual armed with a firearm whose actions forced our deputies to discharge their firearms,” LCSO Sgt. Jim Vachon said. The deputies were not injured. The armed person is deceased, Vachon said. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement will investigate

Armed person confronts Lake County deputies during domestic call near Leesburg Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 20, 2026

Chad Farnsworth selected as next Lake County Schools superintendent

TAVARES, Fla. — Lake County Schools Deputy Superintendent Chad Farnsworth will be the district’s next superintendent following a unanimous vote by the School Board Wednesday. Farnsworth will succeed Superintendent Diane Kornegay, who is retiring at the end of the 2026-27 school year after leading the district for a decade. Farnsworth has served as deputy superintendent since 2024 and previously spent seven years as the district’s assistant superintendent and chief of staff. He also served four years as superintendent of Bradford County Schools. The School Board received seven applications for the position, with Farnsworth and Miami-Dade County Public Schools Chief of

Chad Farnsworth selected as next Lake County Schools superintendent Read More »

Amazon driver found unresponsive near Fruitland Park identified; cause of death still unknown

FRUITLAND PARK, Fla. — An Amazon delivery driver who was found unresponsive and later died has been publicly identified, but her cause of death is still unknown more than a week after she was found. Jaylene Vargas Gonzalez was found unresponsive inside an Amazon delivery vehicle around 7:30 p.m. Aug. 10. Deputies responded to the area of Clark Road in unincorporated Fruitland Park after receiving a report that the vehicle had been running while stationary for an extended period of time, Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake last week. Gonzalez was transported to a local hospital,

Amazon driver found unresponsive near Fruitland Park identified; cause of death still unknown Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 18, 2026

Umatilla man killed in CR 439 crash Monday

UMATILLA, Fla. — A 49-year-old Umatilla man was killed Monday afternoon in a head-on crash on County Road 439 near Umatilla, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 5:45 p.m., the Umatilla man was driving a 2020 Ford Escape northbound on County Road 439, south of Freeman Drive, while a 22-year-old Lake Mary man was driving a 2008 Chevrolet Silverado southbound, FHP said. According to FHP, the Umatilla man failed to maintain his lane and entered the path of the Silverado. The front left sides of the vehicles collided, causing both vehicles to overturn. The Umatilla man was pronounced deceased

Umatilla man killed in CR 439 crash Monday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 17, 2026

Fatal crash shuts down CR 439 near Umatilla

UMATILLA, Fla. — A fatal crash has shut down County Road 439 near Umatilla, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The crash occurred around 5:45 p.m. Monday near Freeman Drive. The road is shut down at County Road 42. No other information was immediately available. This is a developing story.

Fatal crash shuts down CR 439 near Umatilla Read More »

Inside Scoop, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 17, 2026

Man killed after lying down in path of car near Clermont, FHP says

CLERMONT, Fla. — A 31-year-old Haines City man was killed early Saturday after a witness told investigators he walked into a lane on U.S. Highway 27 and laid down in the path of a car, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Just before 6:40 a.m., a 69-year-old Clermont man was driving a 2015 Kia Forte northbound on U.S. Highway 27, south of Cagan Crossings Boulevard. According to FHP, a witness said the pedestrian was walking in the left-turn lane before entering the northbound inside lane and lying down in the path of the Kia. The undercarriage of the Kia struck

Man killed after lying down in path of car near Clermont, FHP says Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 15, 2026

Missing person investigation ends with victim, suspect dead near Mount Dora

MOUNT DORA, Fla. — A missing person report Wednesday led Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies to the discovery of two deceased people, including the missing person and a neighboring resident identified as the suspect, according to the sheriff’s office. Around 5:30 p.m., deputies responded to a residence in the area of Bay Road in unincorporated Mount Dora after receiving a report of a missing person, Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stephanie Earley said. When deputies arrived, they discovered a bullet hole in the passenger-side window of the victim’s vehicle and blood inside. While searching the vehicle, deputies found the victim deceased

Missing person investigation ends with victim, suspect dead near Mount Dora Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 13, 2026

Amazon delivery driver dies after being found unresponsive near Fruitland Park

FRUITLAND PARK, Fla. — An Amazon delivery driver who was found unresponsive inside a delivery vehicle Monday evening near Fruitland Park has died, but investigators say the cause of death remains unclear. Shortly before 7:30 p.m. Monday, deputies responded to the area of Clark Road in unincorporated Fruitland Park after receiving a report of an Amazon delivery vehicle running while stationary for an extended period of time, Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake. When deputies arrived, they found the female driver unresponsive inside the vehicle. She was transported to a local hospital, where she was later

Amazon delivery driver dies after being found unresponsive near Fruitland Park Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 11, 2026

Amazon driver found unresponsive near Fruitland Park

FRUITLAND PARK, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after an Amazon driver was found unresponsive inside a delivery vehicle Monday evening near Fruitland Park. Shortly before 7:30 p.m., deputies responded to the area of Clark Road in unincorporated Fruitland Park after receiving a report of an Amazon delivery vehicle running while stationary for an extended period of time, Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake. When deputies arrived, they found the driver unresponsive inside the vehicle. The driver was transported to a local hospital, Earley said. The driver’s name has not been released. Lake

Amazon driver found unresponsive near Fruitland Park Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 10, 2026

Man shot, killed after trying to force way into Leesburg home, LCSO says

LEESBURG, Fla. — A man was shot and killed Sunday night after deputies say he became involved in a physical altercation with a homeowner while attempting to force his way into a residence where his ex-girlfriend was visiting, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded to a home on Highland Drive in Mid Florida Lakes in unincorporated Leesburg around 9:20 p.m. after a report of a shooting. The preliminary investigation indicates the man arrived unannounced at the residence where his ex-girlfriend was visiting. He became involved in a physical altercation with the homeowner and tried to force his

Man shot, killed after trying to force way into Leesburg home, LCSO says Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 10, 2026

Juvenile female shot in chest near Groveland; LCSO investigating

GROVELAND, Fla. — Two people shot early Sunday, including a juvenile female who was struck in the chest, have been released from the hospital as Lake County Sheriff’s Office detectives continue to investigate the shooting. Shortly before 12:45 a.m., deputies responded to a report of a person shot in the 12000 block of Bay Lake Road. After interviewing multiple witnesses, deputies determined the shooting occurred in the area of Bay Lake Road and Prospect Ranch Road. The juvenile female, whose name and age have not been released, was transported to Orlando Health South Lake Hospital by a friend after suffering

Juvenile female shot in chest near Groveland; LCSO investigating Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 29, 2026

Eustis man arrested in Volusia Operation Tor/Pedo

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — A Eustis man was arrested during a Volusia Sheriff’s Office undercover operation earlier this month targeting individuals who use the internet and apps to exploit children, according to Volusia Sheriff Mike Chitwood. Colton James Gregory, 19, is accused of chatting with what he believed to be a 14-year-old child on July 11 and driving to Volusia County to meet the child, according to a charging affidavit. Using an online platform, Gregory allegedly made sexually explicit comments to a detective posing as a child. Most of the messages contained in the affidavit are too vulgar for publication,

Eustis man arrested in Volusia Operation Tor/Pedo Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 20, 2026

Grand jury indicts man in killing of Eustis woman; prosecutors seek death penalty

TAVARES, Fla. — A Lake County grand jury has indicted Shahidul Islam in the 2025 killing of Monica Islam, and prosecutors are seeking the death penalty. Islam, 44, is charged with premeditated first-degree murder with a firearm in Monica Islam’s May 2, 2025, death. Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney Bill Gladson announced the indictment alongside Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia and Lake County Sheriff Peyton Grinnell at a press conference Tuesday afternoon. According to the State Attorney’s Office, Islam was transferred back to Lake County after being sentenced in his most recent federal criminal case for unlawful reentry into the

Grand jury indicts man in killing of Eustis woman; prosecutors seek death penalty Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 8, 2026

Crimeline tip leads to arrest of Leesburg man accused of sexual act involving dog

LEESBURG, Fla. — A 19-year-old Leesburg man was arrested Wednesday after investigators say he recorded and posted a Snapchat video depicting a sexual act involving a dog. Isaiah Chaitram Nimnauth is facing charges of animal cruelty: sexual contact with animal and unlawful use of a two-way communications device. According to an arrest affidavit, a Lake County Sheriff’s Office detective received a Crimeline tip June 24 reporting a Snapchat video allegedly showing Nimnauth engaging in a sexual act with a dog. The detective reviewed the video before identifying Nimnauth through the Snapchat account and confirming his residence through Florida driver’s license

Crimeline tip leads to arrest of Leesburg man accused of sexual act involving dog Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 1, 2026

Astor man killed in head-on crash on State Road 40

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — A 30-year-old Astor man was killed in a head-on crash with a truck Wednesday morning in Volusia County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The crash occurred around 5:30 a.m. on State Road 40 west of Check Station Road. Troopers said the Astor man was driving a 2004 Buick Rendezvous eastbound on State Road 40 when, for unknown reasons, the SUV traveled onto the south shoulder of the roadway. The driver then overcorrected to the left into the westbound lane and into the path of a 2017 Ford F-350 pulling a trailer. The front of the

Astor man killed in head-on crash on State Road 40 Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 1, 2026

Collision with guardrail and trees kills Lady Lake man, seriously injures woman

LADY LAKE, Fla. — A Lady Lake man was killed Sunday evening and his passenger was seriously injured when their SUV struck a guardrail and several trees, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The crash occurred on Griffin Avenue near Grays Airport Road. FHP said an 81-year-old Lady Lake man was driving a 2026 Subaru Forester eastbound on Griffin Avenue, shortly before 7 p.m. when he failed to negotiate a right-hand curve, The SUV left the roadway and collided with a guardrail before striking several trees, according to FHP The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The passenger, a

Collision with guardrail and trees kills Lady Lake man, seriously injures woman Read More »

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 14, 2026

Man dead, 3 seriously injured in fiery wrong-way crash near Clermont

. CLERMONT, Fla. — A wrong-way driver was killed and three other men were seriously injured in a fiery head-on crash Sunday morning near Clermont, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The crash occurred at 6:20 a.m. on State Road 33 near Bakers Lane in unincorporated Clermont. FHP said a 24-year-old Orlando man was driving a 2026 Toyota Camry northbound in the southbound lane of State Road 33 when he collided head-on with a 2016 Dodge Journey. The impact caused the Dodge to catch fire, according to FHP. The driver of the Toyota was pronounced dead at the scene. His

Man dead, 3 seriously injured in fiery wrong-way crash near Clermont Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 14, 2026

Fatal crash shuts down SR 33 near Clermont

CLERMONT, Fla. — A fatal crash has shut down State Road 33 in unincorporated Clermont, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The crash occurred around 6:30 a.m. near Bakers Lane. At least one person was killed. State Road 33 is closed in both directions between Laws Road and Ott Williams Road as troopers investigate. Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes. This is a developing story.

Fatal crash shuts down SR 33 near Clermont Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 14, 2026

LovExtension: 25 years of quietly changing lives

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

LovExtension: 25 years of quietly changing lives Read More »

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

Murder suspect returned to Lake County more than a year after woman’s death

TAVARES, Fla. — The man accused of killing his sister-in-law last year is back in Lake County and in the custody of the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Shahidul Islam, 43, was extradited from federal custody to Lake County Sunday, LCSO Sgt. Jim Vachon said. He is being held on no bond in the Lake County Jail. LCSO detectives obtained an arrest warrant more than a year ago after Monica Islam, 44, was found murdered in unincorporated Mount Dora after being reported missing from Eustis. She was found shot to death near Scenic Hills Drive and Wolf Branch Road on May 2,

Murder suspect returned to Lake County more than a year after woman’s death Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / June 2, 2026

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

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

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

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / May 17, 2026

Motorcyclist killed in crash on SR 44 near Eustis

EUSTIS, Fla. — The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that killed a Eustis motorcyclist Saturday afternoon. Shortly after 4:30 p.m., a 23-year-old man was riding a 2000 Harley-Davidson motorcycle eastbound on State Road 44 approaching Brantley Branch Road in unincorporated Eustis, above the posted speed limit, according to FHP. He lost control of the motorcycle, swerved left and collided head-on with a 2008 Toyota Tundra that was attempting to turn westbound onto State Road 44 from Brantley Branch Road. The motorcyclist was pronounced deceased on the scene. He was not wearing a helmet. The driver of the Toyota,

Motorcyclist killed in crash on SR 44 near Eustis Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / May 9, 2026

Tavares woman facing 31 animal cruelty charges after emaciated cattle investigation

TAVARES, Fla. — A Tavares woman is facing 31 animal cruelty charges following an investigation by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office that began in April. Lori Ann Gonzalez, 62, was arrested Wednesday and released from the Lake County Jail on $77,500 bond early Thursday morning, according to LCSO online booking records. A livestock welfare complaint led authorities to a pasture in unincorporated Tavares, where cattle were found severely emaciated, launching an animal neglect investigation, LCSO Public Information Officer Deputy Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake last month. Lake County Agricultural/Marine Unit and Animal Enforcement officers responded to 28304 Atlantis Road on

Tavares woman facing 31 animal cruelty charges after emaciated cattle investigation Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / May 7, 2026

Man shot twice after entering Mount Dora-area home, deputies say

MOUNT DORA, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after a man was shot twice Saturday morning in unincorporated Mount Dora. Shortly after 8:45 a.m. Saturday, deputies and officers with Mount Dora Police Department responded to 30203 Cheval Street on a report of a verbal dispute. When law enforcement arrived, they found a man had been shot twice by the homeowner, LCSO Deputy Stephanie Earley said. Deputies determined the man is currently going through a divorce with a female resident of the home. Investigators said he knocked and banged on the front door and windows before entering through

Man shot twice after entering Mount Dora-area home, deputies say Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / May 2, 2026

Murder suspect captured in Leesburg, police say

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

Murder suspect captured in Leesburg, police say Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / April 19, 2026

Man wanted for murder in Leesburg shooting remains on the run

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

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / April 18, 2026

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

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

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / April 17, 2026

Emaciated cows surrendered to deputies Monday near Tavares

TAVARES, Fla. — A livestock welfare complaint led authorities to a Tavares pasture where multiple cattle were found severely emaciated Monday, launching an animal neglect investigation, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Around 1:15 p.m., Lake County Agricultural/Marine Unit and Animal Enforcement officers responded to 28304 Atlantis Road in unincorporated Tavares. From the roadway, deputies could see several zebu-type cattle in an enclosed pasture in poor condition, with ribs, spines and pelvic bones clearly visible, Lake County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake. The pasture consisted largely of bare sand and appeared to lack

Emaciated cows surrendered to deputies Monday near Tavares Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / April 13, 2026

Bodycam, 911 call released in Leesburg deputy-involved shooting

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

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / April 15, 2026

BREAKING NEWS: Man shot, killed by deputy in Leesburg

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

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / April 12, 2026

Barricaded subject surrenders in Fruitland Park, brother also arrested

FRUITLAND PARK, Fla. — A man who barricaded himself inside a home following an armed confrontation with a neighbor on Easter Sunday has surrendered, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded to a home near Sunnyside Drive after Alexander Barrios Ozorio Walfre allegedly threatened a neighbor with a gun, LCSO Public Information Officer Stephanie Earley said. VIDEO: Eddie Allard/Inside Lake Walfre remained barricaded inside the home for several hours before surrendering to the Lake County Crisis Negotiations Team. He was taken into custody without incident, Earley said. Walfre was arrested along with his brother, Walter Emanuel Berrios Ozorio,

Barricaded subject surrenders in Fruitland Park, brother also arrested Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / April 5, 2026

Barricaded subject prompts large law enforcement response in Fruitland Park

FRUITLAND PARK, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is on scene and attempting to negotiate with a barricaded subject in Fruitland Park, officials said Sunday morning. Deputies responded to 4522 Sunnyside Drive after an individual allegedly threatened a neighbor with a gun, LCSO Public Information Officer Stephanie Earley said. LCSO’s negotiations unit is on scene attempting to make contact with the individual, Earley said. This is a developing story.

Barricaded subject prompts large law enforcement response in Fruitland Park Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / April 5, 2026

Fatal motorcycle crash closes road near Eustis

EUSTIS, Fla. — A fatal motorcycle crash has closed Calhoun Road near Eustis, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 5:30 p.m., a 59-year-old Umatilla man was driving a 2016 Ford F-150 northbound on Calhoun Road when he attempted to make a left turn onto Kine Drive, FHP Lt. Tara Crescenzi said. The Ford turned into the direct path of a motorcycle being ridden by a man who had not been identified at press time. The motorcycle collided with the right side of the Ford, and the impact caused it to hit a 2023 Ram ProMaster 3500 van driven by

Fatal motorcycle crash closes road near Eustis Read More »

Clermont, Eustis, Inside Scoop, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / March 23, 2026

No serious injuries in Paisley crashes Monday

PAISLEY, Fla. — Foggy conditions led to two crashes involving multiple vehicles Monday morning, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly before 6:30 a.m., a crash occurred on County Road 42, west of George Street in Paisley, FHP said. “There was a multi-vehicle crash involving a marked Lake County Sheriff’s patrol car and six other vehicles due to fog in the area,” Trooper Migdalisis Garcia told Inside Lake. “There were no serious injuries reported.” A Lake County Fire Rescue vehicle responding to the crash was rear-ended by a Dodge Ram, causing a secondary crash in the area, Garcia said. No

No serious injuries in Paisley crashes Monday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / March 23, 2026

SUV crash near Leesburg kills passenger, driver airlifted

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

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / March 19, 2026

Crash near Groveland leaves car engulfed in flames, kills two Mascotte teens

GROVELAND, Fla. — The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that killed two Mascotte teens early Sunday morning. A 19-year-old Mascotte man was driving a 2018 Dodge Challenger southbound on County Road 565 in the area of Sloans Ridge Road near Groveland when he lost control, troopers said. The Dodge left the roadway, struck multiple trees and became engulfed in flames around 12:45 a.m. The driver and his passenger, a 17-year-old Mascotte boy, were both killed, FHP said. The crash was the second fatal crash involving fire in Lake County in just a few hours. Around 8 p.m. Saturday,

Crash near Groveland leaves car engulfed in flames, kills two Mascotte teens Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Mascotte, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / March 8, 2026

Motorcyclist killed in fiery head-on crash in Sorrento

SORRENTO, Fla. — A Tavares man was killed Saturday night when a large truck struck the motorcycle he was riding head-on, throwing him into the path of another vehicle, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly before 8 p.m., a 27-year-old Hobe Sound man was driving a 2008 Ford F-650 eastbound on State Road 44 near Huff Road when he crossed into the westbound lane for an unknown reason, FHP said. The Ford hit a 2023 Indian Roadmaster motorcycle head-on, causing it to burst into flames and throwing the rider, a 39-year-old Tavares man, into the direct path of a

Motorcyclist killed in fiery head-on crash in Sorrento Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / March 7, 2026

Man sentenced to life in prison for 2022 double murder at RV resort near Clermont

TAVARES, Fla. — A man convicted of murdering a teenager and a woman inside an RV at a Clermont campground in 2022 will spend the rest of his life in prison. Justin Lamar Jones was convicted last week of murdering Tyvionte Finister, 17, and Sandra Gaudino, 38, on Aug. 31, 2022, according to the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office. On Thursday, he learned he will spend the rest of his life in prison. Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Thousand Trails Orlando RV Park near Clermont on Aug. 31, 2022, in reference to a sexual battery and a

Man sentenced to life in prison for 2022 double murder at RV resort near Clermont Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / March 5, 2026

Lady Lake man struck and killed on Rolling Acres Road

LADY LAKE, Fla. — A pedestrian walking on Rolling Acres Road was killed Monday after being struck by a vehicle, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 25-year-old Lady Lake man was walking south near Abeble Road shortly before 12:45 p.m. when he was hit by a 2008 Ford Edge being driven southbound by an 18-year-old Lady Lake woman, FHP said. The impact caused the man to collide with a fence, and he was pronounced deceased on the scene. The woman was not injured.

Lady Lake man struck and killed on Rolling Acres Road Read More »

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / March 3, 2026

Steamroller overturns, kills Ocala man near Clermont, FHP says

CLERMONT, Fla. — A man was killed after a construction steamroller overturned and struck him, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 35-year-old Ocala man was operating the steamroller on private property near County Road 455, west of Hancock Road, around 11:30 a.m. Monday, FHP said. He was attempting to drive the steamroller up an embankment when it overturned. He was struck during the rollover and suffered fatal injuries, FHP said. The incident remains under investigation.

Steamroller overturns, kills Ocala man near Clermont, FHP says Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / March 2, 2026

Pair charged in deadly Leesburg park shooting

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

Pair charged in deadly Leesburg park shooting Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / March 2, 2026

High fire danger Thursday, officials say

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

High fire danger Thursday, officials say Read More »

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

Paisley teen dies after being found unresponsive in Indian River

EDGEWATER, Fla. — The Volusia Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of a 16-year-old Paisley boy who was found unresponsive in the Indian River on Saturday. Hunter McKelvin was discovered face-down near an island east of Menard-May Park in Edgewater on Saturday morning, VSO said Sunday. He was on a camping and fishing trip with friends, who performed CPR and transported him by boat to the park. Edgewater police and EMS personnel took over life-saving efforts there and transported McKelvin to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased at 9:30 a.m. McKelvin had no visible injuries, and the circumstances

Paisley teen dies after being found unresponsive in Indian River Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / February 22, 2026

One killed in fiery crash near Clermont

CLERMONT, Fla. — The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a fiery crash that killed one person early Sunday morning. At 2:45 a.m., a 2008 Mazda 3 was traveling westbound on County Road 474 east of Bruno Road in unincorporated Clermont when, for unknown reasons, it ran off the roadway, overturned and became engulfed in flames, according to FHP. The driver, who has not been identified, was pronounced dead at the scene. Troopers are awaiting identification from the medical examiner.

One killed in fiery crash near Clermont Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / February 22, 2026

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

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

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / February 20, 2026

FHP: Preliminary findings indicate woman fell from SR 429

SORRENTO, Fla. — The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the circumstances surrounding the discovery of a woman’s body Wednesday after preliminary findings indicated she fell from State Road 429. Around 7:15 a.m., the Lake County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a body found in a grassy area near State Road 46 and Sleepy Bear Lane, LCSO Deputy Stephanie Earley said. Deputies responded, and found a 49-year-old DeBary woman, who was pronounced deceased by Lake EMS/Fire Rescue. LCSO detectives and crime scene investigators responded, and the case was later turned over to FHP. The preliminary investigation determined the woman fell

FHP: Preliminary findings indicate woman fell from SR 429 Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / February 18, 2026

FHP takes over death investigation near SR 46

Correction: Based on initial information provided to Inside Lake, an earlier version of this story reported the body was found on State Road 429. The correct location is State Road 46. SORRENTO, Fla. — The investigation into the body found near State Road 46 Wednesday morning has been turned over to the Florida Highway Patrol, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Around 7:15 a.m., LCSO received a report of a body found in a grassy area along State Road 46 near State Road 29 and Sleepy Bear Lane, LCSO Deputy Stephanie Earley said. Deputies and Lake EMS/Fire Rescue responded

FHP takes over death investigation near SR 46 Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / February 18, 2026

Deputies investigating after body discovered near SR 46

Correction: Based on initial information provided to Inside Lake, an earlier version of this story reported the body was found on State Road 429. The correct location is State Road 46. Update: FHP takes over death investigation near SR 46 – Inside Lake SORRENTO, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after a body was discovered Wednesday morning. Deputies are on scene off State Road 46 and the investigation remains active, LCSO Deputy Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake. No other information has been released.

Deputies investigating after body discovered near SR 46 Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / February 18, 2026

Deputies pick up sex predator on 2013 warrant before prison release

TAVARES, Fla.—A convicted Volusia County sexual predator is back in Lake County to face similar crimes he’s accused of committing 20 years ago. Stanley Puckett, now 63, was sentenced to 15 years in prison in 2014 after pleading no contest to several child sex crimes that involved multiple children as young as 9, some he molested for nearly a decade, according to Volusia County court records. Puckett was incarcerated at Madison Correctional Institution, near the Florida-Georgia border, nearly finished with serving his sentence for his Volusia crimes, when he was picked up on 2014 detainers from Lake and Marion counties.

Deputies pick up sex predator on 2013 warrant before prison release Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / February 16, 2026

Technology leads Georgia deputies to missing 12-year-old Paisley girl

LAURENS COUNTY, Ga.— A 12-year-old Paisley girl is safe after being found in Georgia with a 19-year-old Illinois man, with the help of Georgia license plate readers (LPRs.) Juliette Delgado was reported missing Thursday after taking personal belongings with her, Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stephanie Earley said. “Based on prior knowledge of Juliette Delgado’s history and information that was gathered on scene, deputies determined that Juliette Delgado had met 19-year-old male, Alex Lindsley, online via TikTok,” according to Earley, and Lindsley made the drive to Florida to meet the girl. Deputies determined Lindsley was driving a silver Dodge truck

Technology leads Georgia deputies to missing 12-year-old Paisley girl Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / February 6, 2026

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

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

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / February 5, 2026

LCSO searching for teen shooting suspect

DeLAND, Fla.— The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a teenager accused of shooting his sister’s boyfriend near DeLand. Jordan Furber, 17, is accused of shooting Euhari Gordon Wednesday morning, shortly before noon, according to a report obtained by Inside Lake. LCSO responded to a report of a shooting at 42215 Dogwood Avenue in the DeLand portion of Lake County and found Gordon sitting outside in a chair, suffering from two gunshot wounds with both entry and exit wounds, the report states. Three people, including his girlfriend, Renique Leopold, were providing aid. The deputy assessed Gordon’s injuries and Lake

LCSO searching for teen shooting suspect Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / January 29, 2026

Shooting sends one to the hospital Wednesday, LCSO investigating

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story incorrectly listed the address of the incident. DeLAND, Fla.— The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a shooting that occurred in the DeLand portion of Lake County Wednesday afternoon. LCSO responded to 42215 Dogwood Avenue in reference to a shooting, Deputy Stephanie Earley told Inside Lake. The victim, whose name has not been released, was transported to an area hospital and is in stable condition. Deputies have identified the suspect, and the investigation was still active at press time.

Shooting sends one to the hospital Wednesday, LCSO investigating Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / January 29, 2026

Report: Umatilla man paid for rideshare to transport minor for sex

UMATILLA, Fla.— A months-long investigation involving two counties culminated Tuesday with the execution of a search warrant and an arrest in a case involving sex crimes against a minor, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Jordan Charles Lewis, 30, of Umatilla was arrested Tuesday following an investigation that began in October 2025 when the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office forwarded a report to LCSO alleging a victim had engaged in sexual activity with Lewis. The report, written by a school resource deputy (SRD) at a Citrus County high school, stated the victim disclosed she received Snapchat messages from Lewis soliciting

Report: Umatilla man paid for rideshare to transport minor for sex Read More »

Inside Scoop, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / January 21, 2026

Police track down man after reported attempted abduction of teen girl in Eustis

EUSTIS, Fla. — Eustis Police Department has arrested a man in connection with the reported attempted abduction of a teenage girl Saturday, authorities said. EPD began their search for the suspect after a teenage girl said a man had approached her while she was walking in the area of East Pinehurst Boulevard and South Grove Street around 3:30 p.m. Saturday. She told police the man began talking to her about places to get drinks in the area and offered her $300 to get in the SUV he was driving. The 17-year-old girl refused and the man grabbed her, EPD Chief

Police track down man after reported attempted abduction of teen girl in Eustis Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / January 6, 2026

2 killed in crash on SR 33 Friday night; Groveland man arrested for DUI manslaughter

GROVELAND, Fla. — A Groveland man is facing two counts of DUI manslaughter and is being held in the Lake County Jail after a crash that killed two people Friday night, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. FHP said around 7 p.m., Seenarine Hardeo, 50, was driving a 2009 Mini Cooper northbound on State Road 33 near Swamp Drive when he crossed into the southbound lane and collided head-on with a 2019 semi-truck driven by a 67-year-old Miramar man. The impact caused the semi-truck to veer into the northbound lane, where it struck a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado head-on that was

2 killed in crash on SR 33 Friday night; Groveland man arrested for DUI manslaughter Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / December 27, 2025

BREAKING NEWS: Santa Claus is coming to town

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

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

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

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

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / December 22, 2025

Fatal crash closes CR 473 Monday morning

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

Fatal crash closes CR 473 Monday morning Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / December 22, 2025

Police search for persons of interest in deadly Leesburg park shooting

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

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / December 16, 2025

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

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

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / December 14, 2025

Winter Haven man killed in Thanksgiving Day crash in South Lake County

FOUR CORNERS, Fla.—A Winter Haven man died Thursday afternoon after a possible medical episode caused him to crash his Jeep Wrangler, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Just before 5:30 p.m., the 72-year-old man was traveling southbound on U.S. Highway 27, south of Ruby Red Boulevard, in a 2015 Jeep Wrangler, when he ran of the road, hit an electrical box and entered a ditch, FHP said. Troopers said the man may have suffered a medical episode prior to the crash. He was transported to Orlando Health South Lake Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. The crash remains under investigation.

Winter Haven man killed in Thanksgiving Day crash in South Lake County Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 28, 2025

Driver says, “I’m not going to lie, bro, I’ve got to go,” and attempts to flee traffic stop near Clermont

CLERMONT, Fla.—A man who told a Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputy he made a bad choice and regretted his decision is facing two felony charges, according to an arrest affidavit. An LCSO deputy spotted a Hyundai SUV make an illegal U-turn on U.S. Highway 27 at High Grove Boulevard shortly after midnight Wednesday and initiated a traffic stop. The driver pulled into a nearby parking lot, and the deputy approached the SUV and asked for his license. As the driver searched for it, he reportedly said, “I’m not going to lie, bro, I’ve got to go,” and put the SUV

Driver says, “I’m not going to lie, bro, I’ve got to go,” and attempts to flee traffic stop near Clermont Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 25, 2025

FHP searching for Clermont hit-and-run suspect

CLERMONT, Fla.— The Florida Highway Patrol is asking for the public’s assistance with identifying a driver who fled the scene after hitting a bicyclist last week. Around 8 a.m. Saturday, a 35-year-old Clermont woman was riding a bicycle eastbound on the edge of County Road 455 near County Road 561 when an unknown vehicle sideswiped her and fled, FHP Lt. Tara Crescenzi said. The unknown vehicle left the scene eastbound on County Road 455; there were no witnesses, Crescenzi said. The bicyclist was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center with serious injuries. If you have information on the crash, call *FHP or Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS,

FHP searching for Clermont hit-and-run suspect Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 20, 2025

80-year-old woman killed after being struck by SUV at Altoona retirement community

ALTOONA, Fla.— A woman was killed Wednesday afternoon after another woman backed into her with an SUV, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. An 80-year-old woman was walking in a southeast direction the parking lot of the front clubhouse at the Lakeview Terrace community shortly after 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, FHP Lt. Tara Crescenzi said. A 96-year-old woman driving a 2008 Ford Edge reversed out of a parking space and failed to see the pedestrian, striking her and severely injuring her. The victim was airlifted to HCA Lake Monroe Hospital in Sanford, where she was later pronounced deceased. The driver was

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Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 19, 2025

Teens killed, 6-year-old seriously injured in Saturday night crash near Groveland

GROVELAND, Fla.— An attempt to pass in a no-passing zone killed two South Lake County teens Saturday night, shutting down a major road, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly after 6 p.m., a 16-year-old Groveland girl was driving a 2008 Toyota Scion southbound on State Road 33 when she attempted to pass a vehicle in a no-passing zone near Groveland Farms Road. She entered the northbound lane when she apparently saw a 2021 Lincoln Aviator traveling northbound. She swerved back into the southbound lane, lost control, rotated and again entered the northbound lane, FHP said. The Lincoln struck the

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Groveland, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 15, 2025

Fatal crash shuts down SR 33 south of Groveland

11:45 p.m. update: Teens killed, 6-year-old seriously injured in Saturday night crash near Groveland – Inside Lake GROVELAND, Fla.— A fatal crash Saturday night has shut down State Road 33, south of Groveland, according to multiple law enforcement agencies. According to the Florida Highway Patrol’s website, the fatal crash occurred around 6:15 p.m. on State Road 33 near Groveland Farms Road. State Road 33 is closed between Millstream Road and Pine Island Road, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office said in a social media post. Sources told Inside Lake two people were killed. This is a developing story.

Fatal crash shuts down SR 33 south of Groveland Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 15, 2025

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

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

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

Bushnell woman ejected, killed in crash near Lake/Sumter line

GROVELAND, Fla—For the second time in less than a week, a motorist was killed on State Road 50 near Sloans Ridge Road. A 30-year-old Bushnell woman was driving a 2002 GMC Sierra westbound on State Road 50, just before 10 p.m., when she failed to negotiate a curve and drove off the northwest side of roadway. The GMC overturned several times, ejecting the woman, FHP said. She was pronounced deceased on the scene. Multiple agencies responded to the scene to assist, including Groveland Fire Department, Lake County Fire Rescue, Lake County Sheriff’s Office and Mascotte Police Department. This is the

Bushnell woman ejected, killed in crash near Lake/Sumter line Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Mascotte, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 26, 2025

Collision with tow truck kills teen on Turnpike Saturday night

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

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 26, 2025

Clermont man killed in fiery head-on crash with semi

GROVELAND, Fla.—A Clermont man was killed late Sunday night after crashing into a tractor-trailer head-on, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 24-year-old Clermont man was driving a 2024 Toyota Crown eastbound on State Road 50, west of Sloans Ridge Road, near the Lake County/Sumter County line, when he failed to negotiate a curve, traveled into the westbound lane, and hit a 2015 Freightliner being driven by a 69-year-old Tampa man, shortly before 10:30 p.m. The Toyota caught fire, and the Clermont man was pronounced deceased on the scene, FHP said. The Tampa man was transported to South Lake Hospital

Clermont man killed in fiery head-on crash with semi Read More »

Clermont, Groveland, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 20, 2025

Ocklawaha man killed in Astor crash Wednesday

ASTOR, Fla.—A 71-year-old Ocklawaha man was killed after crashing into a tractor-trailer Wednesday night. Shortly before 8:45 p.m., the Ocklawaha man was driving a 2002 Cadillac Escalade westbound on State Road 40, east of Deerfly Road in Astor, when he crossed the centerline and crashed head-on into a 2025 tractor-trailer being driven by a 49-year-old Denver, Colorado man, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The Ocklawaha man was killed on the scene, and a passenger in the tractor-trailer, a 25-year-old, Los Angeles, California man, suffered minor injuries and was transported to AdventHealth DeLand. FHP said. The driver of the tractor-trailer

Ocklawaha man killed in Astor crash Wednesday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 16, 2025

Woman shot in Grand Island Saturday by man trying to “get answers”

GRAND ISLAND, Fla. —A man who was trying to “get answers” is facing an aggravated battery charge after being accused of shooting a woman Saturday. According to a probable cause affidavit, shortly before 7:15 p.m., Denise Rosa was outside of a home in Grand Island putting her dog in her vehicle when she saw Michael Phillips, 76, and invited him inside for a card game. The address of the residence is redacted from the affidavit. Rosa told deputies she finished with her dog, and when she walked in, she heard Phillips say, “Don’t trust what she says.” Rosa asked him what

Woman shot in Grand Island Saturday by man trying to “get answers” Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 15, 2025

Celebration of life announced for Eustis restaurant owner

EUSTIS, Fla.—A celebration of life has been set for beloved Eustis business owner Aaron Belair, both of his restaurants announced Saturday. The celebration of life is scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon, Nov. 1 at LifePoint Church, 3551 E., Orange Avenue, Eustis. It is open to the public. Belair, 57, of Eustis was riding a 2025 Harley-Davidson motorcycle northbound on State Road 19 near Lake Smith Road outside of Umatilla, when he attempted to make a U-turn and collided with a Ford F-150 being driven southbound by a 51-year-old man of Umatilla, on Sept. 25, Trooper Migdalisis Garcia told only

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Eustis, Inside Scoop, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 4, 2025

FHP continues to investigate crash that killed Eustis restaurant owner as community mourns

UMATILLA, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol was on scene Saturday investigating the crash that took the life of a beloved Eustis business owner last week, as the community continues to mourn the loss of the man who quietly touched many lives. Aaron Belair, 57, of Eustis was riding a 2025 Harley-Davidson motorcycle northbound on State Road 19 near Lake Smith Road when he attempted to make a U-turn and collided with a Ford F-150 being driven southbound by a 51-year-old man of Umatilla, Trooper Migdalisis Garcia told only Inside Lake. The crash caused the motorcycle to go underneath the Ford and

FHP continues to investigate crash that killed Eustis restaurant owner as community mourns Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 29, 2025

No one injured in shooting near Eustis campus Tuesday

EUSTIS, Fla.—No one was injured in a shooting near Eustis High School’s Curtright Campus Tuesday, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office said Wednesday. What deputies are calling an “aggravated assault” occurred on Harlem Avenue just outside Eustis city limits, and about a half of a mile away from the campus, causing the school to be placed on lockdown for more than an hour Tuesday morning. Crime scene tape and Eagle One circling overhead prompted concern from nearby residents, several of whom reached out to Inside Lake for information. At press time, a suspect had not been located or arrested, Deputy Stephanie

No one injured in shooting near Eustis campus Tuesday Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 24, 2025

Fatal crash shuts down southbound Turnpike near Clermont

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story misidentified one of the vehicles involved as a tractor-trailer; it was a construction tractor. CLERMONT, Fla.—A fatal crash has shut down all southbound lanes of Florida’s Turnpike near Clermont. According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at 3:40 p.m. and involves four vehicles—a 2015 Genesis GV80, a construction tractor, a 2015 Chevrolet Trax and a 2024 Dodge Charger; at least one person was killed. All southbound lanes are closed at mile marker 277 while FHP investigates.

Fatal crash shuts down southbound Turnpike near Clermont Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 24, 2025

Deputies and police search for shooting suspect near Eustis Tuesday

EUSTIS, Fla.— The Lake County Sheriff’s Office and Eustis Police Department are searching for a suspect involved in a shooting that occurred Tuesday morning. Deputies cordoned off Harlem Avenue just outside of Eustis city limits with crime scene tape, and LCSO’s helicopter, Eagle One, was flying over the area searching for the suspect, witnesses said. Harlem Avenue is just over a half-mile from the Eustis High School Curtright Campus, and the incident caused the campus to be placed on lockdown from 10:38 a.m. until 11:43 a.m. Tuesday, EPD Chief Craig Capri told Inside Lake. No other information was released

Deputies and police search for shooting suspect near Eustis Tuesday Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 23, 2025

Wrong-way crash kills man, injures another near Clermont

CLERMONT, Fla.—An Orlando man is dead, and a Windermere man was seriously injured in an early morning, wrong-way crash near Clermont, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. A witness told troopers a 2019 Audi Q5 was speeding southbound on U.S. Highway 27 near Frank Jarrell Road and then began traveling south in the northbound inside lane, shortly before 2 a.m. Sunday. It crashed head-on into a 2021 Toyota Camry, killing the driver, a 28-year-old Orlando man. The driver of the Audi, a 22-year-old Windermere man, was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center in serious condition, FHP said. The crash remains

Wrong-way crash kills man, injures another near Clermont Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 21, 2025

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

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

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

1 dead, 1 seriously injured in crash near Umatilla Friday night

UMATILLA, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a single-car crash that killed one man and seriously injured another man Friday night. A 10 p.m., a 28-year-old Belleview man was driving a 2020 Chevrolet Corvette northbound on County Road 439 approaching Live Oak Ranch Road when he ran off the road for unknown reasons, FHP said. The Corvette went airborne and struck a tree, killing the driver and seriously injuring his passenger, a 29-year-old Crestview man. The Belleview man was pronounced deceased on the scene, and the Crestview man was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center for treatment. The crash remains

1 dead, 1 seriously injured in crash near Umatilla Friday night Read More »

Inside Scoop, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 6, 2025

Deputies: Brother-in-law accused of killing Eustis woman, held on federal immigration warrant

TAVARES, Fla.—An arrest warrant has been obtained for the brother-in-law of a Eustis woman found murdered in May. Monica Islam, 44, was found shot to death near Scenic Hills Drive and Wolf Branch Road outside of Mount Dora around 7:30 a.m. May 2 after vanishing from Shell, 1701 South Bay Street, Eustis around 6 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. May 2. She told Eustis Police Department they left their home around 5:30 a.m. and arrived at Shell shortly after. She

Deputies: Brother-in-law accused of killing Eustis woman, held on federal immigration warrant Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 2, 2025

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