Inside Scoop Archives - Page 4 of 14

Eustis woman killed in wrong-way Christmas Eve crash in Orange County

TANGERINE, Fla.—A Eustis woman was killed late Christmas Eve night after a wrong-way driver crashed into her near the Orange County/Lake County line, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. At 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, a 62-year-old woman was driving a 2018 Audi Q3 southbound in the outside lane on Orange Blossom Trail, also known as U.S. Highway 441, north of Wadsworth Road when a 2008 Kia Optima, traveling northbound in the southbound lane, collided with her head-on. The Eustis woman was pronounced deceased on the scene; the driver of the Kia, a 39-year-old Orlando man, was transported to Orlando Regional Medical […]

Eustis woman killed in wrong-way Christmas Eve crash in Orange County Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / December 25, 2024

BREAKING NEWS: Santa Claus is coming to town

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

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

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

Fruitland Park man admits to robbing grandparents at knifepoint

FRUITLAND PARK, Fla.—A Fruitland Park man remains in the Lake County Jail on $28,500 bond, accused of robbing his grandparents and threatening to slice their throats. Shortly before 4 p.m. Sunday, Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a home in unincorporated Fruitland Park on a report of a robbery that occurred Friday night. Richard French told a deputy his wife, Shirley, had just left the home with his grandson Kyle Davis Blowers, 36, to get gas. French said around 9 p.m. Blowers came into their bedroom, approached them with a knife and reportedly said, “I want the money, I

Fruitland Park man admits to robbing grandparents at knifepoint Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / December 17, 2024

Head-on collision kills Leesburg woman Monday

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

Head-on collision kills Leesburg woman Monday Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Mascotte, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / December 17, 2024

Missing boy recovered safe, grandmother facing kidnapping and drug charges

TAVARES, Fla.—The 5-year-old boy kidnapped by his grandmother has been recovered safe and has a history of violence in his family, according to police and public records. Less than two hours after the Florida Department of Law Enforcement pushed an Amber Alert for Jace Saunders, his grandmother, Kelly DaSilva, showed up at Lady Lake Police Department with the boy, who was healthy and unharmed. Tavares Police Department detectives responded to Lady Lake and took DaSilva, 50, into custody, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said. She was transported to Tavares Police Department for questioning and Jace was turned over to

Missing boy recovered safe, grandmother facing kidnapping and drug charges Read More »

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / December 16, 2024

FHP finds driver who caused deadly crash outside Eustis, charges pending

EUSTIS, Fla.—A tractor-trailer driver who caused a deadly crash Wednesday and left the scene told the Florida Highway Patrol he did not know he hit anyone, according to a press release. Just after 1:45 p.m., a 58-year-old Miami man was driving a 2017 Volvo tractor-trailer eastbound on State Road 44 and attempted to slow down for traffic. The driver lost control of the trailer, causing it to veer into the westbound lane of State Road 44 near Forest Ridge Road in unincorporated Eustis. The trailer struck a 2014 Nissan Sentra being driven westbound by an 89-year-old Eustis woman, and the

FHP finds driver who caused deadly crash outside Eustis, charges pending Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Uncategorized, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / December 11, 2024

Hit-and-run crash causes head-on collision, kills woman, and shuts down SR 44 Wednesday

Update: FHP finds driver who caused deadly crash outside Eustis, charges pending – Inside Lake EUSTIS, Fla.—A hit-and-run driver caused a chain reaction crash that killed a woman Wednesday afternoon, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Just after 1:45 p.m., a tractor-trailer with a blue cab and silver trailer was eastbound on State Road 44, and attempted to slow down for traffic. The driver lost control of the trailer, causing it to veer into the westbound lane of State Road 44 near Forest Ridge Road in unincorporated Eustis. The trailer struck a 2014 Nissan Sentra being driven by a

Hit-and-run crash causes head-on collision, kills woman, and shuts down SR 44 Wednesday Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Uncategorized, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / December 11, 2024

Man with ties to Mount Dora and Eustis killed in South Florida hit-and-run crash

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.— West Palm Beach Police Department is investigating after a man who grew up in Mount Dora and Eustis was killed in a hit-and-run Friday night, just three days before his birthday. At 11:05 p.m. Friday, a 911 caller reported that a man was unconscious and lying in the roadway of the 2700 block 45th Street, just west of Interstate 95, WPBPD said in a press release. West Palm Beach Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene and pronounced Drew Robert Winters, 44, deceased on the scene. WPBPD Traffic Homicide investigators believe Winters was crossing 45th Street

Man with ties to Mount Dora and Eustis killed in South Florida hit-and-run crash Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By Marilyn M. Aciego / December 9, 2024

Argument about infidelity leads to shooting in Altoona

ALTOONA, Fla.—An argument about infidelity left one man shot and sent another to jail Thursday afternoon, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Shortly before 4:15 p.m. Thursday, LCSO responded to 19331 East Altoona Road on a report of a verbal altercation, and when a deputy arrived, he found James Andrew Carroll 48, lying on his side suffering from a gunshot wound to his lower torso. The deputy rendered aid to Carroll until EMS arrived and Carroll was airlifted to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital. His condition is currently unknown, LCSO Lt. John Herrell told Inside Lake. Carroll’s girlfriend, Shana Cottle,

Argument about infidelity leads to shooting in Altoona Read More »

Inside Scoop, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / December 6, 2024

Head-on crash kills Umatilla man Wednesday

ALTOONA, Fla.—A head-on crash claimed the life of a Umatilla man Wednesday afternoon and a seriously injured a Umatilla woman, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly after 3 p.m., the 42-year-old Umatilla woman was driving a 2018 Honda Accord westbound on County Road 42, approaching Penley Lane in Altoona and traveled into the eastbound lane, striking a 2021 GMC Sierra head-on. The woman was transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares with serious injuries; her passenger, a 45-year-old Umatilla man, was also transported to AdventHealth Waterman, where he was pronounced deceased. An earlier report by Inside Lake stated the man

Head-on crash kills Umatilla man Wednesday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / December 4, 2024

Fatal crash shuts down CR 42 in Altoona

ALTOONA, Fla.—A Umatilla man has died following a crash on a busy Altoona road Wednesday afternoon. The Umatilla man, 45, was driving a 2018 Honda Accord and collided with a 2021 GMC Sierra on County Road 42 at Penley Lane around 3 p.m. The details on how the crash occurred have not been released by the Florida Highway Patrol. The Umatilla man was transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares, where he was pronounced deceased. County Road 42 remained shut down between State Road 19 and County Road 450 at press time, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies are

Fatal crash shuts down CR 42 in Altoona Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / December 4, 2024

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

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

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 18, 2024

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

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

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 18, 2024

Mount Dora double-slaying suspect competent to proceed, judge orders

TAVARES, Fla.—The suspect in a brutal 2022 Mount Dora double murder is now competent to proceed, according to an order signed by Lake Circuit Judge Cary Rada last month. 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 allegedly murdering the couple, Williams stole their green Kia Soul and was still driving it when she was apprehended by a Savannah Police Department officer at a Georgia Amtrak

Mount Dora double-slaying suspect competent to proceed, judge orders Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 17, 2024

Victim uninjured after armed robbery in parking lot of Mount Dora store

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—Mount Dora Police Department is investigating after a woman was robbed of her purse at gunpoint in a parking lot late Saturday afternoon. The victim told police a black male, dressed in all black, wearing a ski mask and armed with a silver semi-automatic firearm, approached her as she was about to enter her vehicle in the parking lot of Viva Liquor 1 , 101 South Highland Street, around 5:40 p.m., according to MDPD. The suspect took the woman’s purse and demanded her phone, but she refused to give it to him. He threatened to shoot her and

Victim uninjured after armed robbery in parking lot of Mount Dora store Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 17, 2024

Mount Dora police searching for suspect who robbed customer at liquor store Saturday

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—Mount Dora Police Department is searching for an armed robber who robbed a customer at a liquor store late Saturday afternoon. A suspect wearing all black and a ski mask robbed a customer at Viva Liquor 1, 101 South Highland Street, around 5:40 p.m. Saturday and fled the scene in a silver SUV. No other details were released Saturday night and police were still on scene investigating. If you have information, call MDPD at 352-735-7130. Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story contained incorrect information that the store was robbed.

Mount Dora police searching for suspect who robbed customer at liquor store Saturday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 17, 2024

Shot fired at LCSO sergeant in Tavares, suspect identified and arrested

TAVARES, Fla.—A man who allegedly fired a shot at a Lake County Sheriff’s Office sergeant’s patrol vehicle early Thursday morning and fled the scene has been identified and arrested. Shortly before 2:15 a.m. Thursday, the LCSO sergeant was patrolling the area of Wells Avenue in Tavares when he was flagged down by a citizen who told him a black male on a bike was rummaging through vehicles in the area. The sergeant canvassed the area and found two males and a female in front of the Peninsular Masonic Lodge, 1234 Wells Avenue. One of the men was on a e-bike,

Shot fired at LCSO sergeant in Tavares, suspect identified and arrested Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 15, 2024

Tipster, “alarmed” by threats against officers, alerts Tavares police

TAVARES, Fla.—A transient Mount Dora woman is in the Lake County Jail on no bond after making multiple threats against three Tavares Police Department officers and one Mount Dora Police Department officer on Facebook Wednesday. A tipster reached out to TPD on its Facebook page just before 9:45 p.m. Wednesday and stated, “Someone I know has made some alarming threats against your officers on Facebook. I would like to remain anonymous, but here are the threats on Facebook. Her name is Ernesta Presy.” The tipster followed the message with 11 screenshots from Presy’s Facebook page. A tip also came into

Tipster, “alarmed” by threats against officers, alerts Tavares police Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 15, 2024

Affidavit: Man accused of child sex crimes admits misdeeds in texts, controlled phone call and interview

UMATILLA, Fla.—A 29-year-old man who has ties to Eustis and Umatilla is in the Lake County Jail on no bond accused of multiple sex crimes against children. Arsenio Quinones, who lives in Umatilla, but has a Eustis mailing address, was arrested by a Lake County Sheriff’s detective Thursday after agreeing to meet with the detective at a home in Umatilla and admitting he committed sex crimes against two separate juvenile victims, according to a heavily redacted arrest affidavit. Both victims’ names, ages and addresses are redacted from the affidavit to protect their identities. In October 2023, victim one reported Quinones

Affidavit: Man accused of child sex crimes admits misdeeds in texts, controlled phone call and interview Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 12, 2024

Eustis police sergeant OK after suspect slams into marked patrol truck

EUSTIS, Fla.—A Eustis Police Department road patrol sergeant is OK after a suspect slammed into his marked patrol truck while he was at a stop sign early Sunday morning. An EPD road patrol officer was patrolling the area of Center Street and Orange Avenue at 12:50 a.m. Sunday when he spotted a white Ford speeding and driving recklessly eastbound on Orange Avenue, according to an arrest affidavit. The officer notified his sergeant, L. Arnold, the vehicle was traveling toward Abrams Road and the officer lost sight of it around Glover Street, according to an arrest affidavit. Arnold was traveling on

Eustis police sergeant OK after suspect slams into marked patrol truck Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 10, 2024

Fatal motorcycle crash shuts down SR 44 outside of Eustis Saturday

EUSTIS, Fla.—A motorcyclist was killed Saturday afternoon after striking a concrete mailbox, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The man was riding a 2020 Harley-Davidson FXLRS on State Road 44 when he failed to negotiate a curve, ran off the road, and hit the mailbox near Bottany Woods Drive, in unincorporated Eustis, shortly after 5 p.m. He was transported to AdventHealth DeLand, where he was pronounced deceased, FHP said. The crash closed State Road 44 and it was still closed nearly three hours after the crash.

Fatal motorcycle crash shuts down SR 44 outside of Eustis Saturday Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 9, 2024

BREAKING NEWS: Suspected Eustis triple shooter in custody

EUSTIS, Fla.— The man suspected of shooting three people in Eustis Friday night is in custody, Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri said. Gary “Pookie” Davis, 46, was apprehended by EPD, just before 1 p.m. Saturday, following a press conference. EPD responded to a report of a shooting in front of 604 Kensington Street around 10 p.m. Friday and found three people shot. Delmetrius Brown, 41, was shot multiple times and airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center; he underwent surgery and is expected to survive. Rashida Henderson, 47, was shot in the upper right leg and transported to AdventHealth Waterman in

BREAKING NEWS: Suspected Eustis triple shooter in custody Read More »

Around the County, Eustis, Inside Scoop, Uncategorized / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 9, 2024

Police on the hunt for Eustis triple shooting suspect

EUSTIS, Fla.—A warrant has been issued for the arrest of the man who police say shot three people Friday night. Gary “Pookie” Davis, 46, is wanted for attempted murder, three counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and discharging a firearm in public, EPD Chief Craig Capri said. EPD responded to a report of a shooting in front of 604 Kensington Street around 10 p.m. and found three people shot. Delmetrius Brown, 41, was shot multiple times and airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center; he underwent surgery and is expected to survive. Rashida Henderson, 47, was shot in the

Police on the hunt for Eustis triple shooting suspect Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 9, 2024

BREAKING NEWS: 2 shot in Eustis Friday night

EUSTIS, Fla.—Eustis Police Department is investigating after two people were shot Friday night. EPD responded to the area of Kensington Street around 10 p.m. and found a male and a female suffering from gunshot wounds, EPD Chief Craig Capri told Inside Lake. Capri said the scene was “active and fluid” and little information was available late Friday night. The victim’s names and the extent of their injuries have not been released, but at least one person was airlifted for treatment, he said. Units were still on scene around 11:30 p.m., “They are canvassing the area for evidence,” Capri said. No

BREAKING NEWS: 2 shot in Eustis Friday night Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 8, 2024

Umatilla motorcyclist killed, another seriously injured after wrong-way driver causes late night crash

EUSTIS, Fla.—A wrong-way crash killed a 20-year-old man and sent a 41-year-old man to the hospital shortly before midnight Saturday, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. A 49-year-old Eustis man was driving a 2017 Dodge Ram 2500 westbound in the eastbound lane of State Road 44 when he struck a 2024 Harley-Davidson Sportster head-on, near Hammond Lane. The 20-year-old rider was killed; a second motorcyclist, a 41-year-old man riding 2003 Suzuki VL800K, swerved and laid the bike down on the roadway, FHP said. The 20-year-old Umatilla man was pronounced deceased on the scene, the 41-year-old man, also of Umatilla, was

Umatilla motorcyclist killed, another seriously injured after wrong-way driver causes late night crash Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Umatilla / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 2, 2024

Accused Montverde child murderer appears in court Thursday

TAVARES, Fla.—The woman accused of brutally torturing and murdering her boyfriend’s daughter appeared in court Thursday. Only Inside Lake was in the courtroom as Circuit Judge Heidi Davis questioned Tyshael Martin, 35, about retaining an attorney. Martin, who still does not have an attorney of record, more than two months after her arrest, told Davis she has retained Sean Landers, but he has not filed a notice of appearance yet due to him being out of town. Assistant State Attorney Thomas Wieczorek asked the court to keep Martin’s case on the docket for November for both a pre-trial conference to

Accused Montverde child murderer appears in court Thursday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Montverde, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / November 1, 2024

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

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

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

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 28, 2024

Mom accused of Sorrento kidnapping extradited to Lake County

TAVARES, Fla.—The mom accused of kidnapping her two daughters from a Sorrento foster home in January is back in Lake County to face her charges. Dixie Krista Williams, 42, is accused of kidnapping her two daughters, Tilli and Natalia, in the early morning hours of Jan. 25 from their foster home in Sorrento, triggering an Amber Alert and large law enforcement response. The girls were missing for more than a day, until Williams was captured in Louisiana on Jan. 26. Through its investigation, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office discovered information that Williams may be traveling in a silver Nissan Rogue

Mom accused of Sorrento kidnapping extradited to Lake County Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 25, 2024

Police release name of motorcyclist killed early Monday

EUSTIS, Fla.—Eustis Police Department has released the name of the man killed while riding a motorcycle Monday morning. Graman Matos Mangual, 38, of DeLand was riding a 2001 Suzuki motorcycle northbound on U.S. Highway 441, north of David Walker Drive around 6:30 a.m. Monday when a black GMC pickup truck struck the motorcycle as the truck attempted to turn left into Eustis Village plaza, EPD Capt. Ken Toler said. Mangual was pronounced deceased on the scene, the driver of the truck, Anthony Campbell, 55, of Astatula was not injured. The crash remained under investigation at press time Wednesday.

Police release name of motorcyclist killed early Monday Read More »

Astatula, Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 23, 2024

Tempers and flames flare up in Eustis domestic incident Tuesday, according to police

EUSTIS, Fla.—A couple is in the Lake County Jail, accused of battering each other and police say one of them intentionally set an apartment on fire. Shortly after 1:15 p.m. Tuesday, Eustis Police Department responded to Crazy Gator, 402 North Bay Street on a report of a domestic battery in progress, according to an arrest affidavit. When they arrived, they found Ashlee Pringle, 35, crying with multiple injuries to her face and neck and she told police her boyfriend, Christopher Walantus, 42, hit her multiple times. She told police the altercation began Monday, and Walantus, under the influence of alcohol

Tempers and flames flare up in Eustis domestic incident Tuesday, according to police Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 23, 2024

Motorcyclist killed in Eustis crash Monday

EUSTIS, Fla.—Eustis Police Department is investigating a crash that killed a motorcyclist before daybreak Monday. The motorcyclist was riding a 2001 Suzuki motorcycle northbound on U.S. Highway 441, north of David Walker Drive around 6:30 a.m. when he was struck by a black GMC pickup truck attempting to make a left turn into Eustis Village shopping plaza, EPD Capt. Ken Toler told Inside Lake. The plaza contains Publix, Sonic and numerous other restaurants and retail businesses. The motorcyclist was pronounced deceased on the scene; his name has not been released, pending notification of next of kin. The driver of the

Motorcyclist killed in Eustis crash Monday Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 21, 2024

Tragic discovery: Tavares couple found dead of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning from generator following Hurricane Milton

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is investigating after a man and woman were found dead of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in their home Tuesday, and police believe a generator is to blame. TPD received a call requesting a well-being check around 1:45 p.m. on Perry Leintz, 67, and Constance Albrecht, 87, at their home at 24 Holly Drive in the Tiki Village Mobile Park off Dead River Road, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said. Road patrol officers responded to the home and found the couple deceased, and a generator in their shed that was connected to the home. “There were

Tragic discovery: Tavares couple found dead of suspected carbon monoxide poisoning from generator following Hurricane Milton Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 25, 2024

State to seek death penalty for accused Montverde child killer

TAVARES, Fla.— The woman charged with the horrific murder of her boyfriend’s daughter earlier this year is now facing the death penalty. Assistant State Attorney Thomas Wieczorek filed a notice of intent to seek the death penalty Oct. 8 in the case against Tyshael Martin, of Montverde, and stated five aggravating factors in the case. The capital felony was committed while the defendant was engaged, or was an accomplice, in the commission of, or an attempt to commit aggravated child abuse. The capital felony was especially heinous, atrocious, or cruel. The capital felony was a homicide and was committed in

State to seek death penalty for accused Montverde child killer Read More »

Inside Scoop, Montverde / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 25, 2024

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

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

Leesburg shooting victim, 87, dies, 2 arrested for murder Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 14, 2024

Sorrento man killed after crashing dirt bike in forest Sunday

OCALA NATIONAL FOREST—A Sorrento man has died after crashing a dirt bike Sunday, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 11:10 a.m., the 59-year-old man was riding a 2022 KTM Dirt Bike on a dirt road in the Ocala National Forest when he crashed into two trees and was thrown from the bike, FHP said. Troopers did not release an exact location. The man was transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares, where he was pronounced deceased.

Sorrento man killed after crashing dirt bike in forest Sunday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 13, 2024

Bicyclist killed after turning in front of truck on SR 50 Friday night

SOUTH LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—A bicyclist was killed Friday night after he turned in front of a truck on State Road 50 near Mascotte and Groveland, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly before 9:30 p.m., a 30-year-old man was riding a bicycle on Anderson Street, when he turned into the direct path of a 2021 Chevy Silverado being driven eastbound on State Road 50 by a 67-year-old man of San Antonio, Texas, FHP said. The man was thrown from the bicycle and pronounced deceased on the scene; the Texas man was not injured. The crash remains under investigation.

Bicyclist killed after turning in front of truck on SR 50 Friday night Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mascotte / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 12, 2024

Eustis police investigating after multiple shots fired Saturday afternoon

EUSTIS, Fla.—Eustis Police Department is investigating after multiple shots were fired just after noon Saturday while dozens of youth cheerleaders and football players enjoyed their Saturday game day just a few blocks away. EPD received multiple calls about shots fired beginning at 12:01 p.m. Saturday and callers believed the shots were at Carver Park and officers rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, they found the shots actually occurred on Wall Street between Virginia Avenue and Hollywood Avenue after finding multiple shell casings and speaking with witnesses, Chief Craig Capri told Inside Lake. Carver Park is on Bates Avenue, and a

Eustis police investigating after multiple shots fired Saturday afternoon Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 25, 2024

State to seek death penalty in August ambush attack on deputies

TAVARES, Fla.—The woman accused of helping mastermind an ambush attack on Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies may pay for her alleged crimes with her life. Fifth Judicial Circuit Assistant State Attorney Kenneth Nunnelley filed a notice of intent to seek the death penalty late Tuesday afternoon in the case against Julie Sulpizio. Sulpizio, 48, is accused of starting an altercation with her neighbors on Brookside Drive in unincorporated Eustis on Aug. 2. LCSO responded to the altercation and during a well-being check at her home, just down the street from the original call, Master Deputy Bradley Link was shot and

State to seek death penalty in August ambush attack on deputies Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / April 16, 2025

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

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has released two videos capturing the people suspected in the gas station shooting of an 87-year-old man. One video shows the suspects walking across the parking lot of Citgo, 2101 West Main Street, and the second shows the incident occurring around 2:40 p.m. Saturday, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. Two suspects approached the passenger side of the vehicle, while another suspect approached the driver side, where the victim was sitting. During a confrontation, the victim was shot and all three suspects fled. The victim, whose name has not been released, was transported to an area

Leesburg police release videos of suspects in shooting of man, 87 Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 30, 2024

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

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is searching for three suspects who they say are involved in the shooting of an 87-year-old man. LPD responded to Citgo, 2101 West Main Street on a report of a shooting around 2:40 p.m. Saturday, LPD. Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. Two suspects approached the passenger side of the vehicle, while another suspect approached the driver side, where the victim was sitting. During a confrontation, the victim was shot and all three suspects fled. The victim, whose name has not been released, was transported to an area hospital and underwent surgery Saturday night, Walsh said. Anyone with

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 29, 2024

Small business advocate and friend to the community, Nina Rosania loses her battle with kidney disease at 43

Publisher’s note: Nina Rosania touched many lives in her short 43 years, including my own. I thought it was important to recognize her for the imprint she left on this community and the hole it now has to fill with her absence. I wanted to give people the opportunity to share stories and their feelings about Nina, so those who missed out on meeting her would know what a caring, selfless person she was. I met Nina after I started Inside Lake. She barely knew me in the beginning, and she’d come to my defense in these ever-so-popular word of

Small business advocate and friend to the community, Nina Rosania loses her battle with kidney disease at 43 Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 25, 2024

Dad and girlfriend indicted in death of 9-year-old Montverde girl

TAVARES, Fla.—The father of 9-year-old Jamaria Sessions, and his girlfriend, have been indicted for Jamaria’s brutal murder. Lojuan Sessions, 26, and Tyshael Martin, 34, are both being held in the Lake County Jail on no bond, accused of ongoing abuse that led to the death of Jamaria, who would have been in fourth grade this school year. Martin pleaded not guilty to her crimes Monday morning and was ordered not to have contact with Jamaria’s next of kin, Althea Chenault. Chenault, known as, “Nana” to Jamaria, is Jamaria’s maternal grandmother. Chenault had custody of Jamaria and her little sister Jaliah,

Dad and girlfriend indicted in death of 9-year-old Montverde girl Read More »

Inside Scoop, Montverde / By Marilyn M. Aciego / October 25, 2024

Lake County prepares for Helene

Publisher’s note: This story will be updated as more information becomes available. LAKE COUNTY, Fla.— Tropical Storm Helene, expected to make landfall Thursday as Hurricane Helene, is expected to bring wind and rain to Lake County and residents should finish storm preparations by Wednesday afternoon. How to get information and sandbags, along with closures are listed below. Citizens Information line: 352-253-9999 AlertLake Notification System: sign up at https://alertlake.com/ or text ALERTLAKE to 888777 Closures: Butler Street Boat Ramp, 55400 Butler Street, Astor, 5 a.m. Wednesday City of Eustis, Thursday City of Groveland, Thursday Lake County Board of County Commissioners,

Lake County prepares for Helene Read More »

BREAKING NEWS: Lake County Schools closed Thursday

TAVARES, Fla.- Lake County public schools will be closed Thursday due to Tropical Storm Helene, which is expected to be a hurricane when it makes landfall, according to Lake County Schools. After-school activities on Wednesday are not cancelled and a decision will be made about Friday following Wednesday’s mid-day briefing, LCS said.

BREAKING NEWS: Lake County Schools closed Thursday Read More »

Teen facing charges after allegedly firing shots in Lady Lake restaurant parking lot

LADY LAKE, Fla.—A 15-year-old male was arrested Saturday night after being accused of firing several shots in a restaurant parking lot where a crowd of people had gathered. Lady Lake Police Department officers were responding to a reported fight in progress at Fresh Jalapeno Mexican Restaurant, 360 South Highway 27/441 when they received information shots had been fired in the parking lot, around 11 p.m. Saturday, according to Communications Director Elisha Pappacoda. As officers arrived on scene, a silver SUV being driven by the 15-year-old suspect, sped out of the parking lot and turned south on U.S. Highway 27/441. Officers

Teen facing charges after allegedly firing shots in Lady Lake restaurant parking lot Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Lady Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 18, 2024

Male airlifted after being shot in Mount Dora Monday night

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—Mount Dora Police Department is investigating after a male was shot in the area of East Jackson Avenue around 8:15 p.m. Monday. Police released very little information Tuesday; Spokesperson Misty Sommer confirmed to Inside Lake a male was shot in the leg and airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. His name and age were not released and the incident is under investigation. This is the second shooting in Mount Dora in a little more than a month. On Aug. 2, several people were at Cauley Lott Park, just a few blocks from Monday night’s shooting,

Male airlifted after being shot in Mount Dora Monday night Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 17, 2024

Mount Dora lifts boil water notice

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—The City of Mount Dora has lifted its precautionary boil water notice, according to spokesperson Misty Sommer. “Lab results have confirmed that no contaminates were found in our water supply, and it’s safe for all normal use,” Sommer said in an email shortly before 1 p.m. Friday. Around 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, an independent contractor struck a water main while working on a development at U.S. Highway 441 and Natoma Boulevard. Residents and businesses lost water, and most were restored by 11 p.m. Tuesday. The city issued a boil water notice following restoration and expected it to be lifted

Mount Dora lifts boil water notice Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 13, 2024

No signs of abuse or neglect at group home, Eustis police chief says

EUSTIS, Fla.—A social media post about a Eustis group home set off a firestorm of comments earlier this week in the popular Facebook group Eustis FL Word of Mouth. A member of the group posted about an interaction she had with young resident of the home and expressed her concerns that the child may have been abused. Inside Lake reached out to Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri and he said “there are no signs of abuse” at the Press Forward group home that houses teen and preteen girls. “It doesn’t appear any there is any abuse or neglect,” Capri told

No signs of abuse or neglect at group home, Eustis police chief says Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 12, 2024

Mount Dora man sentenced to three decades in prison for attempted murder

TAVARES, Fla.—A man convicted of shooting a woman twice in Mount Dora last year has been sentenced to 30 years in prison, 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. There were two bullet holes through her driver’s side window,

Mount Dora man sentenced to three decades in prison for attempted murder Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 10, 2024

Police: Tavares tax preparer scammed and stole from her clients

TAVARES, Fla.—A tax preparer has bonded out of jail for the third time in a little over three months and police say she scammed at least three of her clients. Shaqueena Fabra Lister, 34, of Tavares is accused of stealing nearly $25,000 from three of her clients who utilized her business, World Wide Taxes, 1020 East Alfred St., Tavares, according to several probable cause affidavits. Between April and June, three victims reported to Tavares Police Department they used Lister to file their taxes but never received their refunds. In one case, a man told police he paid Lister $1,200 in

Police: Tavares tax preparer scammed and stole from her clients Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 7, 2024

Eustis police chief rides for fallen deputy

MARYLAND—For 13 years, Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri has been riding his bicycle to honor the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks and fallen law enforcement officers around the country during the Tour de Force 9/11 Memorial Bike Ride, and this year the ride means a bit more— he is riding for fallen Lake County Sheriff’s Office Master Deputy Bradley Link. The memorial ride started in 2002 and has since evolved into honoring both the victims of 9/11 and law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. “This year I’m dedicating my ride to Master Deputy Link,

Eustis police chief rides for fallen deputy Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 7, 2024

Leesburg police make arrest in July murder

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

Leesburg police make arrest in July murder Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 4, 2024

More details released in DUI manslaughter of Tavares toddler; fundraiser set up to help family

TAVARES, Fla.—More details have been released in the death of a 2-year-old boy Monday night and a fundraiser has been set up to help his family. Asher Lepping, 2, was out riding his blue toddler tricycle with his sister near a cul-de-sac in his Oak Bend neighborhood while his parents watched, shortly after 7:15 p.m. Monday; Asher’s mom, Kyrsten Lepping heard a vehicle speeding and observed a silver Toyota Tacoma speeding as it turned onto the street. Asher’s mom and dad yelled at the truck to slow down, and the truck struck Asher, dragging the toddler and his tricycle several

More details released in DUI manslaughter of Tavares toddler; fundraiser set up to help family Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 3, 2024

Toddler hit and killed by truck in Tavares Monday night as neighbors screamed to slow down, Driver, 19, arrested for DUI manslaughter

TAVARES, Fla.—A 2-year-old Tavares boy was hit by truck Monday night and the 19-year-old driver has been arrested for DUI manslaughter. Witnesses told police Joshua Aidan Montero, of Sanford, was driving a silver 2017 Toyota Tacoma “recklessly” prior to the crash around 7:30 p.m. Monday. “Neighbors observed the vehicle driving recklessly prior to turning on the Black Dog Court,” Tavares Police Department Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan told Inside Lake. “When he turned onto Black Dog Court, people yelled to slow down, and he ultimately hit a 2-year-old boy.” The boy’s name has not been released. Neighbors immediately rendered aid

Toddler hit and killed by truck in Tavares Monday night as neighbors screamed to slow down, Driver, 19, arrested for DUI manslaughter Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 3, 2024

LCSO deputy released from the hospital Monday

TAVARES, Fla.—Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stefano Gargano has been released from the hospital. More than 100 fellow law enforcement officers, friends and family members lined the sidewalk to welcome Gargano as he was released from HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital in Sanford, exactly one month after he was shot while attempting to rescue Master Deputy Bradley Link Aug. 2 from a home outside of Eustis. He was escorted to Lake County by multiple law enforcement agencies across Central Florida under a bright blue sky and fluffy white clouds. Gargano was shot multiple times, as he and a team entered

LCSO deputy released from the hospital Monday Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 2, 2024

Woman killed after crashing into concrete barrier on Florida’s Turnpike late Saturday, Fruitland Park man not injured

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—A Crystal River woman has died after crashing into a concrete barrier on Florida’s Turnpike Saturday night, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly before 11 :15 p.m., the 66-year-old Crystal River woman was driving a 2021 Buick Enclave northbound near mile marker 283 in the South Lake County area, when she failed to negotiate a slight curve and entered the inside paved shoulder. The Enclave struck a barrier, rotated and collided with the outside shoulder barrier and then struck a 2015 Toyota Rav4 being driven by an 82-year-old Fruitland Park Man, FHP said. The Crystal River woman

Woman killed after crashing into concrete barrier on Florida’s Turnpike late Saturday, Fruitland Park man not injured Read More »

Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / September 1, 2024

Father arrested in 9-year-old daughter’s death, joked about abuse and “bootcamp” with girlfriend

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla.—A father has now been arrested for failing to protect his young daughter from his girlfriend who is accused of murdering her in the Montverde home they all shared. Lojuan Sessions, 26, was arrested in Orange County Friday on a charge of aggravated manslaughter of a child and a violation of probation and is being held on no bond. “Lojuan Sessions, by and through both statements and digital forensics of cellular phones collected during this investigation did encourage, suggest, plan, permit and assist Tyshael Martin in the implementation and execution of various ‘disciplinary’ processes to include rigorous physical

Father arrested in 9-year-old daughter’s death, joked about abuse and “bootcamp” with girlfriend Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Montverde / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 30, 2024

Tip leads Eustis police to pair of thieves who ratted each other out

EUSTIS, Fla.—Two accused burglars are behind bars after a tip from a Mount Dora homeless camp led a Eustis Police Department detective straight to one of the suspects. On Sunday, EPD road patrol officers responded to Ace Hardware, 18691 U.S. Highway 441 on a report of a burglary. Officers found muddy tire tracks that appeared to be from a lawnmower, a broken fence, a blue mask and a camera sprayed with a white substance, likely paint, according to an arrest affidavit. Video footage showed a man, later identified as Roy “Saint” Perrott, 23, wearing a black t-shirt with “original recipe”

Tip leads Eustis police to pair of thieves who ratted each other out Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 29, 2024

Videos showed girl, 9, was attacked by large rottweiler, and savagely beaten, kicked and dragged by father’s girlfriend who bragged about the “creative ways” she punished her

MONTVERDE, Fla.—Horrifying details have been released in the murder 9-year-old Jamaria Sessions. According to a probable cause affidavit, Tyshael Martin, the girlfriend of Jamaria’s father Lojuan Sessions, ordered a 103-pound rottweiler to attack the girl, and savagely dragged and kicked her-and it was all caught on video. Shortly before 5 a.m. June 17, Lake EMS responded to 16017 Harbar Oaks Drive, Montverde on a report of an unresponsive child. She was pronounced deceased by Lake EMS. Martin told EMS she woke up that morning to catch a flight to California with Jamaria and several other children to meet up with

Videos showed girl, 9, was attacked by large rottweiler, and savagely beaten, kicked and dragged by father’s girlfriend who bragged about the “creative ways” she punished her Read More »

Inside Scoop, Montverde / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 29, 2024

BREAKING NEWS: Arrest made in murder of 9-year-old Montverde girl

MONTVERDE, Fla.—An arrest has been made in the murder of a 9-year-old Montverde girl, the girl’s family told Inside Lake Thursday morning. Tyshael Elise Martin, 34, was arrested Wednesday night for the murder of Jamaria Sessions, Martin is the girlfriend of Lojuan Sessions, Jamaria’s father. According to Lake County Jail online booking records, Martin is facing charges of first degree murder, aggravated child abuse and child neglect and is being held on no bond at LCJ. Jamaria was found dead at a home in Montverde June 17 and detectives have been investigating the case for more than two months. Althea

BREAKING NEWS: Arrest made in murder of 9-year-old Montverde girl Read More »

Inside Scoop, Montverde / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 29, 2024

Man wanted for raping woman he met on dating app turns himself in to Eustis police

EUSTIS, Fla.—A Jacksonville man wanted by Eustis Police Department for sexually battering a woman he met on a dating app turned himself in to EPD Tuesday. On Aug. 16, a woman reported she had been “raped” by a man named Jeffrey James of Jacksonville. EPD responded and she told a female officer she met James on the dating app “Hinge,” and they matched about three weeks prior and began messaging and talking on the phone on Aug. 14, according to a probable cause affidavit. She said James, 36, seemed “nice” and “easygoing” and “not the aggressive type.” They agreed to

Man wanted for raping woman he met on dating app turns himself in to Eustis police Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 28, 2024

Girlfriend of accused murderer turns herself in

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

Girlfriend of accused murderer turns herself in Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 28, 2024

Eustis police searching for man wanted in connection with sexual battery

EUSTIS, Fla.—Eustis Police Department is searching for a man wanted in connection with a sexual battery. Jeffrey James, 36, is a white male, 6 feet, 1 inch tall, and may be driving a 2021 grey GMC Canyon, license plate PDUA71. James is believed to be in the Jacksonville area, EPD said. If you have information on James’ whereabouts, call Det. W. Perry at 352-483-5400.

Eustis police searching for man wanted in connection with sexual battery Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 22, 2024

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

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

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

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 22, 2024

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

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

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

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 22, 2024

Former teacher sentenced to life in prison for sexually abusing foreign exchange student and plying boy with THC, alcohol

TAVARES, Fla.—A former high school teacher has been sentenced to life in prison for sexually battering a foreign exchange student last year. A Lake County jury found Dmitri V. Kostyunin, 51, guilty of contributing to the delinquency of a minor, delivery of cannabis to a person under 18 and sexual battery in March. Kostyunin 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 and stated a “sexual incident” occurred at Kostyunin’s home in Mount Dora. The victim told authorities that

Former teacher sentenced to life in prison for sexually abusing foreign exchange student and plying boy with THC, alcohol Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 21, 2024

Driver killed after tree falls on truck and causes crash near Clermont, 2 passengers hospitalized

CLERMONT, Fla.—A Groveland man was killed, and his two passengers injured, after a tree fell on the truck he was driving, causing him to crash into a dump truck Tuesday afternoon near Clermont, according the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly before 4:30 p.m., the 58-year-old Groveland man was westbound on County Road 474 in a 2017 Ford F-350 with a trailer attached, when a tree from the north shoulder fell on the truck, Trooper Migdalisis Garcia said. The impact of the tree caused the Ford to enter the eastbound lane, and the left side of the Ford collided with the left

Driver killed after tree falls on truck and causes crash near Clermont, 2 passengers hospitalized Read More »

Clermont, Groveland, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 20, 2024

Fatal crash shuts down CR 474 outside of Clermont

CLERMONT, Fla.—A fatal crash has shut down County Road 474 in unincorporated Clermont, according to the Lake County County Sheriff’s Office County Road 474 is shut down in both directions, from Cemex Sand Mine, 11945 County Road 474, to State Road 33 while the Florida Highway Patrol investigates the crash that occurred around 4:30 p.m. Tuesday. This is a developing story.

Fatal crash shuts down CR 474 outside of Clermont Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 20, 2024

BREAKING NEWS: Matriarch indicted for ambush of deputies

TAVARES, Fla.—A Lake County grand jury has indicted Julie Sulpizio for her role in the death of one Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputy and the attempted murder of two others on Aug. 2. Sulpizio is now officially charged with principal to premeditated murder of a law enforcement officer, three counts of principal to attempted murder of a law enforcement officer, conspiracy to commit murder, battery on law enforcement officer, three counts of battery. The battery charges stem for her original altercation with neighbors. Sulpizio has been held on no bond since her arrest Aug. 5 after she was medically cleared

BREAKING NEWS: Matriarch indicted for ambush of deputies Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 19, 2024

FHP confirms identity of man killed on SR 44 early Sunday

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol has confirmed the identity of the man killed while walking across State Road 44 Sunday morning. Robert Hawkins Jr., 32, was walking north across the westbound lane of State Road 44 near Lakeview Drive when he was struck by a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan being driven by a 43-year-old DeLand woman, around 3:45 a.m.; Hawkins was not in a marked crosswalk, Trooper Migdalisis Garcia said. Hawkins was pronounced deceased on the scene; the DeLand woman was not injured.

FHP confirms identity of man killed on SR 44 early Sunday Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 19, 2024

Leesburg man uninjured in fatal Hillsborough County pedestrian crash

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

Leesburg man uninjured in fatal Hillsborough County pedestrian crash Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 18, 2024

Eustis man killed walking across SR 44 early Sunday

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—A Eustis man was struck and killed early Sunday morning while walking across State Road 44, outside of Eustis, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly after 3:45 a.m., the 32-year-old man was walking north across the westbound lane of State Road 44 near Lakeview Drive when he was struck by a 2020 Volkswagen Tiguan being driven by a 43-year-old DeLand woman. The pedestrian was pronounced deceased on the scene; he was not in a marked crosswalk. The DeLand woman was not injured, Trooper Migdalisis Garcia said.

Eustis man killed walking across SR 44 early Sunday Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 19, 2024

Man found deceased in Eustis Thursday morning, police investigating

EUSTIS, Fla.—Eustis Police Department is investigating after a man was found deceased near some businesses Thursday morning. The male, in his 60s, was found just after 7:15 a.m. by some bystanders walking by 2105 East Orange Avenue, EPD Capt. Jon Fahning told Inside Lake. His death does not appear to be suspicious. Police have identified the man, but are not releasing his identity, pending notification of next of kin.

Man found deceased in Eustis Thursday morning, police investigating Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 15, 2024

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

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

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

LCSO: No signs of foul play in Altoona death investigation

ALTOONA, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is conducting a death investigation after a man was found deceased with his vehicle Wednesday in the area of Kismet Road in Altoona. The man, whose name was not released, is an older man, and a detective investigating the case believes the heat may have contributed to his death while he was stranded with his car that was stuck in in the woods. There are no signs of foul play, LCSO Cpl. Chanel Martin said.

LCSO: No signs of foul play in Altoona death investigation Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 14, 2024

Suspects on the run after stealing $1K worth of liquor from Lady Lake store

LADY LAKE, Fla.—Lady Lake Police Department is seeking the public’s help in identifying four people who stole more than $1,000 in liquor from a warehouse club Monday night. The suspects assaulted an employee at Sam’s Club, 755 North U.S. Highway 441/27, and escaped the scene in a black Mercedes-Benz, license plate L5RTU, Communications Director Elisha Pappacoda said. The car is registered to a white male transient in the Orlando area and similar incidents have been reported across Florida, with the most recent incident occurring in Palm Beach Gardens. The thefts appear to be related, Pappacoda said. If you have information,

Suspects on the run after stealing $1K worth of liquor from Lady Lake store Read More »

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 14, 2024

Pedestrian killed attempting to cross Sumter County road Wednesday

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

Pedestrian killed attempting to cross Sumter County road Wednesday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 14, 2024

Lady Lake police remind residents to secure their vehicles following uptick in burglaries

LADY LAKE, Fla.—Lady Lake Police Department is reminding residents to secure their vehicles following an uptick in vehicle burglaries. Twelve burglaries were reported over the weekend, 10 in the town limits of Lady Lake and two in Lake County Sheriff’s Office jurisdiction, Town of Lady Communications Elisha Pappacoda said in a press release. The burglaries occurred on Ann Avenue, Jennifer Drive, Mark Drive, Silver Oak Avenue and Tarson Boulevard. In each instance, the vehicle was left unlocked and rummaged through, with loose change stolen in most incidents, Pappacoda said. LLPD suggests residents utilize the following tips to prevent being victimized.

Lady Lake police remind residents to secure their vehicles following uptick in burglaries Read More »

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 13, 2024

Man killed in Sorrento crash Monday night

SORRENTO, Fla.—An Orlando man was killed Monday night after losing control of his SUV, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly before 10 p.m., the 47-year-old man was southbound on County Road 46A, approaching State Road 46 when he ran off the road. He overcorrected, lost control of the SUV, rotated counterclockwise, ran off the road again, overturned several times, and was ejected from the SUV, Trooper Migdalisis Garcia said. He was transported to HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital in Sanford, where he was pronounced deceased. The crash remains under investigation.

Man killed in Sorrento crash Monday night Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 13, 2024

Mount Dora police release surveillance video in an effort to identify suspects in park shooting

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—Mount Dora Police Department is seeking the public’s help in identifying three people who fired shots at a popular park early this month. MDPD released a surveillance video Monday that captured the early evening shooting Aug. 2 at Cauley Lott Memorial Park, 1717 North Highland St., Mount Dora. According to police, several people were at the park, along with vehicles parked along Pine Street, when a dark-colored, late model sedan backed out of a parking space. Two people walking down the sidewalk began firing at the sedan and a third shooter returned fire, Spokesperson Misty Sommer said. A

Mount Dora police release surveillance video in an effort to identify suspects in park shooting Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 12, 2024

Celebration of Life and Service for fallen LCSO deputy held Saturday

CLERMONT, Fla.— “Let us remember Bradley as a true hero for his courageous actions.” Lake County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Stephanie Earley spoke about her dear friend and field training officer Master Deputy Bradley Link at his Celebration of Life and Service Saturday. Thousands of people were in attendance. Earley spoke about the relationship she and her husband had with Link, and his wife, Brittany. The times they spent together playing Catch Phrase and, “our beach days together were the best,” she said. Deputy Matthew Layman, who was Link’s zone partner when he was in the road patrol unit, spoke about

Celebration of Life and Service for fallen LCSO deputy held Saturday Read More »

Clermont, Eustis, Inside Scoop, Minneola, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 10, 2024

Celebration of life and service for fallen deputy livestream available for those who cannot attend

CLERMONT, Fla.—A celebration of life and memorial service for fallen Lake County Sheriff’s Office Master Deputy Bradley Link will livestream at 11 a.m. today. The livestream will be available for those who cannot attend in person. You may watch by clicking here. Hundreds of people are attending the service, including community members, dignitaries and law enforcement officers from across the country, in addition to family and friends. Link, 28, was a 2015 graduate of Lake Minneola High School, served in the Army Reserves and became a deputy sheriff for the Polk County Sheriff’s Office in 2017. He was hired at

Celebration of life and service for fallen deputy livestream available for those who cannot attend Read More »

Clermont, Eustis, Inside Scoop, Minneola, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 10, 2024

Injured K9 deputy releases first public statement

TAVARES, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office released a video of K9 Master Deputy Harold Howell leaving the hospital, along with his first statement to the public Wednesday. “Hello all— it is bittersweet to finally be home after this event. I would like to thank my Lake County Sheriff’s Office family for their unending love and support,” Howell said. He also had a message for the community that has rallied behind him, Deputy Stefano Gargano and the family of fallen Master Deputy Bradley Link. “To everyone in Lake County, as well as state and even nationwide—I have seen and heard your

Injured K9 deputy releases first public statement Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 7, 2024

Celebration of life and service announced for fallen deputy

CLERMONT, Fla.—A celebration of life and memorial service for fallen Lake County Sheriff’s Office Master Deputy Bradley Link has been announced. It is scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday, at Real Life Christian Church, 1501 Steve’s Road, Clermont. For those unable to attend in person, LCSO will livestream the service, the agency said in a social media post.

Celebration of life and service announced for fallen deputy Read More »

Clermont, Eustis, Inside Scoop, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 6, 2024

Matriarch now facing charges in “horrific nightmare” ambush of deputies

TAVARES, Fla.—Julie Sulpizio, the woman who set Friday night’s tragic events in motion, has been arrested and is a facing a litany of charges. Sulpizio is facing charges of principal to premeditated murder of a law enforcement officer, seven counts of attempted murder, battery on law enforcement officer, battery by strangulation, and two counts of battery. She was arrested Monday afternoon at AdventHealth Waterman and transported to the Lake County Jail in Master Deputy Bradley Link’s patrol truck and cuffed with his handcuffs, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office said at a press conference following her arrest. Link’s unit, Agriculture and

Matriarch now facing charges in “horrific nightmare” ambush of deputies Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / April 16, 2025

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

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

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

BREAKING NEWS: 911 down in Lake County

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

BREAKING NEWS: 911 down in Lake County Read More »

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

Purple Alert issued for missing Mount Dora man

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—Mount Dora Police Department is searching for a man who has been missing since Sunday. James “Jim” Mackey was reported missing shortly before 11:45 p.m. Sunday and was last seen leaving Chacall Loop in his grey 2014 Ford Taurus, license plate 83DIWH and was traveling in the direction of Natoma Boulevard in the Summerbrooke neighborhood, according to MDPD. Mackey has multiple health conditions, including diabetes, glaucoma with blindness in his left eye and is in the early stages of dementia. He is 5’9”, 198 pounds, with blue eyes and grey hair with a buzz cut. He was last

Purple Alert issued for missing Mount Dora man Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 5, 2024

Fallen deputy to be transported Monday morning

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

Fallen deputy to be transported Monday morning Read More »

Clermont, Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Minneola, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 4, 2024

Suspects named in deputy ambush

TAVARES, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office has released the names of the suspects who shot three deputies Friday night. Michael Sulpizio, 49, Savannah Sulpizio, 23, and Cheyenne Sulpizio, 22, were all found dead by LCSO’s SWAT team after they made entry at the home where Deputy Bradley Link, 28, lay wounded after all three suspects opened fire on deputies Friday night, LCSO Lt. John Herrell said. Deputies responded to a home on Brookside Drive in the Orlando Hills neighborhood in unincorporated Eustis, on a report that Julie Sulpizio, 48, attacked a resident at that home. Deputies took Julie into custody

Suspects named in deputy ambush Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Tavares / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 4, 2024

Fundraisers set up for deputies shot in the line of duty Friday night

TAVARES, Fla.—Fundraisers have been set up to benefit the deputies who were shot Friday night outside of Eustis. Lake County Sheriff’s Office Master Deputy Bradley Link, Master Deputy Harold Howell and Deputy Stefano Gargano were shot in the line of duty Friday night. Link and Howell were ambushed while conducting a well-being check related to another call for service. Gargano was shot multiple times while attempting to rescue Link, who was trapped inside the home. Link was rescued and succumbed to his injuries. On Saturday, LCSO Lt. John Herrell said Howell was in stable condition and Gargano was in critical

Fundraisers set up for deputies shot in the line of duty Friday night Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 4, 2024

LCSO releases names of deputies who survived ambush Friday night

TAVARES, Fla.—The two Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies who survived after being shot in the line of duty Friday have now been identified. Master Deputy Bradley Link and Master Deputy Harold Howell were shot Friday night while conducting a well-being check at a home on Brookside Drive in unincorporated Eustis. Link was trapped in the home and Deputy Stefano Gargano was part of a rescue team put in place to extract Link from the home. Howell, 41, was shot in the arm and is currently awaiting surgery; he is listed in stable condition. He began working for LCSO in 2005

LCSO releases names of deputies who survived ambush Friday night Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 3, 2024

Deputy killed in the line of duty identified

TAVARES, Fla.—The Lake County Sheriff’s Office has identified the deputy killed in the line of duty Friday night. Master Deputy Bradley Michael Link, 28, joined LCSO as an Explorer and after graduating from Lake Minneola High School in 2015, he served in the Army Reserves before becoming a deputy sheriff for the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. He joined LCSO in 2019, “where he quickly became part of our family and faithfully served our citizens with courage and zeal,” LCSO said in a Facebook post. “Brad, as our Sheriff’s Office family knew him, touched the lives of all who were blessed

Deputy killed in the line of duty identified Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 3, 2024

Lake County Sheriff: 3 deputies shot, 1 killed Friday night outside Eustis in a “hail of gunfire”

EUSTIS, Fla.—The collective heart of the community is heavy today after three Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies were shot Friday night, one of them tragically killed. LCSO Sheriff Peyton Grinnell spoke to reporters early Saturday morning, his sorrow apparent, and explained what happened around 8 p.m. Friday, while Major Glenn Hall, Major Todd English, Lt. John Herrell, Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods and 5th Judicial Circuit State Attorney Bill Gladson stood close by. Deputies first responded to a disturbance at a home on Brookside Drive in unincorporated Eustis. “While they were conducting their investigation, they were alerted to a home,

Lake County Sheriff: 3 deputies shot, 1 killed Friday night outside Eustis in a “hail of gunfire” Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 3, 2024

BREAKING NEWS: Several deputies shot outside of Eustis

EUSTIS, Fla.—Multiple deputies have been shot while responding to a call for service in unincorporated Eustis, Lake County Sheriff’s Office Lt. John Herrell confirmed. Details are limited and we are headed to the scene. Keep an eye on Inside Lake for more details.

BREAKING NEWS: Several deputies shot outside of Eustis Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 2, 2024

Mount Dora police investigating after multiple shots fired into occupied vehicle Friday night

7:30 p.m. update: Lockdown has been lifted. 7:15 p.m. update: MDPD confirmed one person was shot and went to AdventHealth Waterman for treatment. The hospital is currently on lockdown. MOUNT DORA, Fla.—Mount Dora Police Department is investigating after numerous shots were fired at a park Friday night. MDPD responded to Cauley Lott Memorial Park, 1717 North Highland Street, shortly after 6 p.m., “Numerous shots were fired into an occupied vehicle,” City of Mount Dora Spokesperson Misty Sommer told Inside Lake. One person was shot, and officers are currently on scene interviewing witnesses; at press time it was unknown how many

Mount Dora police investigating after multiple shots fired into occupied vehicle Friday night Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 2, 2024

PHOTO: Shannon Cook/Special to Inside Lake

SUV crashes into unoccupied bank building in downtown Eustis Friday afternoon

EUSTIS, Fla.—A driver and a pedestrian are OK after an SUV crashed into a Bank of America building in downtown Eustis Friday afternoon. Shortly before 2:15 p.m., an elderly driver lost control of her SUV and careened into the glass double doors of the building, located at 100 North Bay Steet. A pedestrian was near the building and suffered minor injuries, Eustis Police Department Chief Craig Capri said. The building has been unoccupied for several years, and according to Bank of America’s website, only an ATM is available at that location for customer use. The driver and pedestrian, whose names

SUV crashes into unoccupied bank building in downtown Eustis Friday afternoon Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 2, 2024

Sorrento man killed in motorcycle crash Wednesday

SORRENTO, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that killed a Sorrento motorcyclist Wednesday. The 80-year-old Sorrento man was riding a 2014 Harley-Davidson southbound on County Road 435 approaching Dubsdread Drive around 3:10 p.m. when he failed to negotiate a curve and ran off the road. He struck two traffic signs and a tree and was thrown from the motorcycle, FHP said. He was transported to AdventHealth Apopka, where he was pronounced deceased.

Sorrento man killed in motorcycle crash Wednesday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 1, 2024

ATV crash claims 2 lives near Groveland Wednesday

GROVELAND, Fla.—Two people were killed Wednesday afternoon after they crashed into a tree and were thrown from the ATV they were riding, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. A 22-year-old Sanford man was operating a 2024 Polaris Sportsman ATV northbound on North Austin Merritt Road, north of Ward Drive in unincorporated Groveland at 3:15 p.m., when he failed to negotiate a curve, lost control, ran off the road and struck a tree, FHP said. He was thrown from the ATV, along with his passenger, a 21-year-old Davenport woman; they were both pronounced deceased on the scene.

ATV crash claims 2 lives near Groveland Wednesday Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / August 1, 2024

FHP investigating 2 fatal crashes just minutes apart on opposite sides of Lake County Wednesday afternoon

LAKE COUNTY, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating two separate crashes that resulted in fatalities Wednesday afternoon. The first crash occurred at 3:20 p.m. on North Austin Merritt Road near Ward Drive in unincorporated Groveland, according to FHP. The second crash occurred just three minutes later at County Road 435 near Dubsdread Drive in Sorrento. Roads are shut down in both areas. Details about the crashes were not available at press time. This is a developing story.

FHP investigating 2 fatal crashes just minutes apart on opposite sides of Lake County Wednesday afternoon Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By Marilyn M. Aciego / July 31, 2024

Filter posts by category

Inside Scoop