Florida

Mount Dora police searching for missing autistic, non-verbal man

MOUNT DORA, Fla. — The Mount Dora Police Department is asking for the public’s help locating a missing 21-year-old autistic man. Vasilios Stewart is 5 feet 9 inches tall, weighs approximately 270 pounds and has brown hair and brown eyes. He was last seen near 11th Avenue and Carol Lane wearing a red Snoopy T-shirt. Stewart is autistic and non-verbal. Anyone who sees Stewart or has information about his whereabouts is asked to contact the Mount Dora Police Department immediately at 352-735-7130 or call 911.

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Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By / July 27, 2026

Man accused of abandoning starving dog at Lake County Animal Shelter

Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to include a statement from a Lake County spokesperson regarding the Lake County Animal Shelter. Viewer discretion advised: This story contains images that some readers may find disturbing. TAVARES, Fla. — A man is facing animal cruelty and abandonment charges after investigators say he surrendered his starving dog to the Lake County Animal Shelter as a “found dog” earlier this year, according to a probable cause affidavit. On Jan. 25, Edualdo Rodriguez, 55, surrendered the severely emaciated male American bulldog as a “found dog,” but a Lake County Sheriff’s Office investigation found Rodriguez

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Inside Scoop, Tavares / By / July 23, 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,

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Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By / July 20, 2026

Investigation sustains allegations against former Howey police chief over relationship with fraud suspect’s wife

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS, Fla. — A Lake County Sheriff’s Office internal affairs investigation sustained allegations that former Howey-in-the-Hills Police Chief Michael Giddens violated department policy after engaging in a sexual relationship with the wife of a man he was investigating for felony fraud, according to documents released by the town Thursday. The investigation began after the Town of Howey-in-the-Hills received an anonymous complaint alleging Giddens had engaged in an inappropriate sexual relationship with the woman while he was investigating her husband in 2025. Giddens was a lieutenant at the time of the relationship and was appointed police chief in October 2025. Because

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Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop / By / July 17, 2026

Tavares K9 Bruce leads officers to meth trafficking arrest, $601K bond

TAVARES, Fla. — A traffic stop for a stop sign violation led to the arrest of a Leesburg man on trafficking and other drug charges Sunday night, according to an arrest affidavit. Joshua D. Franklin, 41, was arrested for trafficking methamphetamine over 28 grams, possession of cocaine with intent to sell and possession of drug paraphernalia during a traffic stop. According to the affidavit, a Tavares K9 officer stopped Franklin’s silver passenger car around shortly before 8 p.m. after seeing it fail to stop behind the stop bar at the intersection of U.S. Highway 441 and Sinclair Avenue. Franklin denied

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Inside Scoop, Leesburg, Tavares / By / July 13, 2026

Mount Dora man dies after crash on U.S. Highway 441 in Tavares

TAVARES, Fla.— A Mount Dora man was killed late Thursday afternoon after attempting to cross several lanes of traffic and colliding with a truck near AdventHealth Waterman, according to Tavares Police Department. Shortly after 5:30 p.m., William Pyle, 84, of Mount Dora, was pulling onto U.S. Highway 441 from Waterman Way in a 2016 Nissan Sentra when he failed to obey a right-turn-only sign and attempted to cross the northbound lanes to turn left into the southbound lanes. The Nissan was struck by a 2018 GMC pickup truck traveling in the inside northbound lane, driven by Charles Green, 39, of

Mount Dora man dies after crash on U.S. Highway 441 in Tavares Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Tavares / By / July 10, 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 / 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 / July 1, 2026

Howey-in-the-Hills searching for new police chief after resignation

HOWEY-IN-THE-HILLS, Fla. — The Town of Howey-in-the-Hills is searching for a new police chief after former Chief Michael Giddens resigned last month while under investigation.  Giddens submitted his resignation June 3 and Town Manager Sean O’Keefe provided Inside Lake with a copy of his resignation letter. The town has posted the police chief position and is accepting applications. O’Keefe said the town’s investigation remains ongoing with assistance from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. In his resignation letter, Giddens wrote that his “private life is being targeted by anonymous individuals driven by personal and political agendas,” and after 32 years in

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Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop / By / 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

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Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By / July 1, 2026

Minneola woman killed after SUV catches fire in Sumter County crash

SUMTER COUNTY, Fla. — A 21-year-old Minneola woman was killed in a fiery crash early Tuesday morning in Sumter County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The woman was driving a Mazda CX-9 westbound on County Road 478 when she failed to negotiate a curve west of County Road 747, around 4 a.m., troopers said. The SUV traveled off the roadway, struck a fence and then collided with a tree and caught fire. The driver suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene, FHP said. The crash remains under investigation.

Minneola woman killed after SUV catches fire in Sumter County crash Read More »

Inside Scoop, Minneola / By / June 30, 2026

Three years later, Bryson Leverette’s killing remains Lady Lake’s only unsolved homicide

LADY LAKE, Fla. — Nearly three years after 20-year-old Bryson “Swift” Leverette was gunned down outside a Lady Lake home, investigators are again asking for the public’s help in solving the town’s only unsolved homicide. Leverette was fatally shot and another person was wounded around 12:45 a.m. June 30, 2023, as they were leaving a home at 104 Caroline Ave. in the Skyline Hills area, according to the Lady Lake Police Department. Investigators said the victims were ambushed by multiple suspects armed with several firearms. The suspects fled the area in unknown vehicles, and no arrests have been made. “Three

Three years later, Bryson Leverette’s killing remains Lady Lake’s only unsolved homicide Read More »

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake / By / June 29, 2026

Nude woman exits “suspicious” vehicle before driver crashes into fire hydrant last week, police say

MOUNT DORA, Fla. — An Orlando man is facing multiple charges after police say he crashed into a fire hydrant, ran from officers and discharged a firearm while intoxicated last week. Around 5 a.m. June 20, Mount Dora police officers observed a suspicious vehicle near Limit Avenue and North Unser Street while Lake County dispatch received a 911 call about the same vehicle “parked under suspicious circumstances” at a nearby business on U.S. Highway 441, according to an arrest affidavit. The caller told dispatch a nude woman exited the vehicle before it abruptly drove away. Officers later determined the woman

Nude woman exits “suspicious” vehicle before driver crashes into fire hydrant last week, police say Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By / June 28, 2026

Fruitland Park church overseer arrested in hidden camera investigation

LEESBURG, Fla. — A Fruitland Park man was arrested Friday after an investigation uncovered digital files involving females, including videos investigators say were recorded with a concealed camera inside a church bathroom and a room where adolescent girls were changing following a baptism service, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Charles Barton “Bart” Lucas, 59, was arrested on five counts of video voyeurism. Four counts involve adult victims and one involves a victim younger than 16, according to an arrest affidavit. He was released from the Lake County Jail on $25,000 bond. The investigation began after suspicious material was

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Fruitland Park, Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / June 20, 2026

Two Lake County men arrested in separate Florida Keys incidents

MONROE COUNTY, Fla. — Two Lake County men were arrested Wednesday in unrelated incidents in the Florida Keys, according to the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office. A 50-year-old Umatilla man was arrested in Marathon after deputies say he followed customers around a Publix while armed with a knife, causing alarm among shoppers. According to the sheriff’s office, deputies were called to the store around 7 p.m. after multiple customers and an employee reported John Paul Roberts was making eye contact with customers and following them around the store and out to their vehicles for unknown reasons. Roberts had a knife sheathed

Two Lake County men arrested in separate Florida Keys incidents Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Umatilla / By / June 18, 2026

4th arrest made in pair of Eustis shootings, more charges filed against adult suspects

EUSTIS, Fla. — A fourth arrest has been made in a pair of Eustis shootings last week and additional charges have been filed against the adult suspects, according to Eustis police. Von’tayvian Silas-Edwards, 15, was arrested late Tuesday afternoon and charged with principal to shooting into an occupied dwelling. His arrest follows the Friday arrests of Elijah Hood, 18, on a charge of principal to shooting into an occupied dwelling, and Malachi Aiden Hughes, 15, and Jordan Larry Hayes, 18, on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and shooting into an occupied dwelling stemming from the shootings at

4th arrest made in pair of Eustis shootings, more charges filed against adult suspects Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / June 16, 2026

Lady Lake police seek information on vehicle involved in fatal crash

LADY LAKE, Fla. — Lady Lake police are asking for the public’s help following a fatal pedestrian crash early Tuesday. Shortly before 3:30 a.m., the driver of a gray 2023 Toyota Tacoma was traveling on U.S. Highway 27 near Hartsock Mill Road when she saw a man wearing dark clothing and standing in the middle southbound lane, according to Town of Lady Lake Communications Director Elisha Pappacoda. There are no streetlights in the area, Pappacoda said. The driver attempted to avoid the man but was unable to and struck him. She stopped and called for help while her passenger checked

Lady Lake police seek information on vehicle involved in fatal crash Read More »

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake / By / June 16, 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 / 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 / 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 / June 14, 2026

Teen dispute at Carver Park led to pair of Eustis shootings Thursday night, police say

EUSTIS, Fla. — A dispute between two groups of teenagers at Carver Park escalated into two shootings less than two hours apart Thursday night, resulting in the arrests of two suspects and more charges are expected, according to Eustis police. Malachi Aiden Hughes, 15, and Jordan Larry Hayes, 18, were arrested on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and shooting into an occupied dwelling following shootings at 701 E. Hazzard Ave. and 1502 E. Lakeview Ave. No one was injured in either shooting. According to arrest affidavits, witnesses told investigators the conflict began earlier Thursday at Carver Park,

Teen dispute at Carver Park led to pair of Eustis shootings Thursday night, police say Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / June 12, 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 / June 2, 2026

LCSO executes narcotics search warrant at Tavares home

TAVARES, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office executed a narcotics-related search warrant Tuesday morning at a residence in Tavares. The warrant was executed at a home in the 100 block of Bloxham Avenue, according to LCSO Sgt. Jim Vachon. Few details were immediately available Tuesday. Vachon confirmed the operation was a narcotics search warrant but no additional information was released.

LCSO executes narcotics search warrant at Tavares home Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares / By / June 2, 2026

Eagle One helps track Clermont man to Eustis after fleeing traffic stop

EUSTIS, Fla. — A Clermont man with multiple outstanding warrants out of Georgia was arrested Monday night after allegedly fleeing from a traffic stop and traveling through several Lake County communities before hitting stop sticks in Eustis, according to an arrest affidavit. Brandon Stuart Brown, 32, is facing charges of fleeing to elude, attaching tag not assigned, driving while license suspended, canceled or revoked as a habitual offender and operating an unregistered motor vehicle. Around 10 p.m., a Lake County Sheriff’s Office corporal observed a dark-colored Chevrolet Tahoe traveling north on U.S. Highway 27 near State Road 19 with no

Eagle One helps track Clermont man to Eustis after fleeing traffic stop Read More »

Clermont, Eustis, Groveland, Inside Scoop / By / May 26, 2026

Man sentenced to 25 years for shooting at deputies, officers in Mount Dora; murder case still pending

Editor’s note: The video below contains graphic images and language. Viewer discretion is advised.  TAVARES, Fla. — The man accused of shooting at Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies and Mount Dora Police officers in 2022 when he was just 18 years old, has been sentenced to 25 years in prison for his Lake County crimes, according to court records, but his legal troubles are far from over. Jonny Ze Guiseppe Santiago, now 22, pleaded no contest last week to two counts of attempted murder of a law enforcement officer, fleeing and eluding and discharging a firearm from a vehicle after

Man sentenced to 25 years for shooting at deputies, officers in Mount Dora; murder case still pending Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Tavares / By / May 25, 2026

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

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

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

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

Pedestrian critically injured in Lady Lake crash

LADY LAKE, Fla. — A St. Augustine man is in critical condition after he was struck by a car on U.S. Highway 27/441 in Lady Lake Wednesday morning. Anthony Heine, 36, was hit by a black Hyundai Sonata around 5 a.m. while crossing U.S. Highway 27/441 in the crosswalk at Wales Plaza, Town of Lady Lake Communications Director Elisha Pappacoda said. The driver of the Hyundai, Eunice Young, 65, of Lady Lake, told Lady Lake Police Department officers she was traveling northbound on U.S. Highway 27/441 and had a green traffic light when she “suddenly felt a severe impact” and

Pedestrian critically injured in Lady Lake crash Read More »

Inside Scoop, Lady Lake / By / May 13, 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,

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Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By / May 9, 2026

Police: Eustis man beat, robbed 65-year-old during yard work

EUSTIS, Fla. — A 23-year-old Eustis man is behind bars after police say he struck a 65-year-old man in the back of the head and robbed him late last month. Calvin Llweely Graham was arrested Wednesday after Eustis Police Department officers spotted him riding a bicycle in the area of Palmetto Street and East McDonald Avenue, EPD Chief Craig Capri said. Graham fled when he saw officers, but after a short pursuit, he was apprehended. On April 29, EPD responded to Wall Street on a report of a robbery. The 65-year-old victim told police he was doing yard work on

Police: Eustis man beat, robbed 65-year-old during yard work Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / May 7, 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 / May 7, 2026

Precautionary boil water notice issued for part of Mount Dora

MOUNT DORA, Fla. — A precautionary boil water notice has been issued after a contractor struck a water main in Mount Dora Wednesday. A contractor with WIRE3 hit a water main located Morningside Drive and Sylvan Point Drive Wednesday afternoon, causing a break, according to Misty Sommer, City of Mount Dora Public Information officer. The break has been repaired, and the city has issued a precautionary boil water notice for Morningside Drive from Sylvan Point Drive to U.S. Highway 441, including Pineway Court, Sunset Circle, Hannah Drive, and Sussex Drive, Sommer said. The system is currently being flushed, and water

Precautionary boil water notice issued for part of Mount Dora Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By / May 6, 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 / 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 / April 19, 2026

Man wanted for murder in Leesburg shooting remains on the run

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

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

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

Eustis man arrested in 2024 death of Umatilla motorcyclist

EUSTIS, Fla. — A Eustis man has been arrested on charges of DUI manslaughter and vehicular homicide in connection with a 2024 crash that killed a Umatilla man, the Florida Highway Patrol said Saturday. According to FHP, at 11:56 p.m. Nov. 1, 2024, Michael David Davis, of Eustis, was driving a 2017 Dodge Ram 2500 the wrong way 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, of Umatilla, was pronounced dead at the scene. A second motorcyclist, a 41-year-old Umatilla man riding a 2003 Suzuki VL800K,

Eustis man arrested in 2024 death of Umatilla motorcyclist Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop, Umatilla / By / April 18, 2026

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

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

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

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

Armed person of interest sought in Leesburg shooting, LCSO says

LEESBURG, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is searching for a person of interest in a shooting in Leesburg. Deputies are investigating a shooting in the area of 1904 Griffin Road. The person of interest has been identified as Matthew Lee Pasco, 43, according to LCSO Public Information Officer Deputy Stephanie Earley. Deputies search for Matthew Pasco, a person of interest in a Leesburg shooting Friday morning. VIDEO: Eddie Allard/Inside Lake Pasco is described as 5 feet, 11 inches tall, 150 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes. He has a prominent scar on the right side of his

Armed person of interest sought in Leesburg shooting, LCSO says Read More »

Uncategorized / By / April 17, 2026

LCSO executes narcotics search warrants at two Eustis homes

EUSTIS, Fla. — The Lake County Sheriff’s Office executed two narcotics-related search warrants in Eustis Thursday morning, Inside Lake has learned. Details remained limited early Thursday afternoon. LCSO Public Information Officer Deputy Stephanie Earley said the warrants were executed at 1022 and 1024 Morin Street. Deputies and detectives remained on scene just before noon, with a portion of Morin Street closed as the investigation continued. A tent was set up near the scene with numerous items laid out on a table, along with brown paper bags commonly used for evidence. This is a developing story.

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Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / April 16, 2026

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

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

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

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

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 / April 13, 2026

BREAKING NEWS: Man shot, killed by deputy in Leesburg

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

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

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

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

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

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / April 10, 2026

Veteran reporter revisits Eustis killing that exposed alleged family cult in new book 

EUSTIS, Fla. — “I accidentally killed someone. Please.” That’s how a 911 call began in a case that would unravel into allegations of control, isolation and abuse within a family investigators later described as cult-like. “My stepmom… My dad is going to kill me,” the caller told the operator, identifying himself as Ian Anselmo. “I guess I strangled her. I don’t remember doing it. I remember the argument.” The victim, 39-year-old Sue-Ellen Anselmo, who was pregnant at the time, was found in a Eustis cemetery. As the investigation progressed, authorities uncovered allegations of physical, emotional and sexual abuse, along with the

Veteran reporter revisits Eustis killing that exposed alleged family cult in new book  Read More »

Eustis, Features, Inside Scoop / By / April 6, 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 / 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 / April 5, 2026

Judge denies independent DNA review in Duckett case despite defense push

TAVARES – A circuit court judge Wednesday denied death row inmate James Duckett’s appeal to have an independent DNA lab analyze inconclusive results he hoped would exonerate in the 1987 rape and murder of a child. Duckett was a rookie Mascotte police officer on duty when Teresa McAbee was found floating in a lake. Until recently, he has resisted testing a semen stain found on her panties because the sample would be destroyed in the procedure. But with the clock ticking after Gov. Ron DeSantis signed the death warrant for March 31, testing went forward. The Florida Supreme Court issued

Judge denies independent DNA review in Duckett case despite defense push Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mascotte, Tavares / By / April 1, 2026

Eustis detectives investigating apparent suicide near US Highway 441 overpass

EUSTIS, Fla. — A death investigation is underway in Eustis after a person was found hanging from a tree Wednesday afternoon, police said. Officers responded at 1:18 p.m. to the area of State Road 19A and the U.S. Highway 441 overpass after a passerby reported seeing the individual, according to Eustis Police Department Chief Craig Capri. The individual had been at the location for several hours and was beyond life-saving measures, Capri said. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation unit responded to process the scene, and the body will be turned over to the medical examiner’s office. Eustis

Eustis detectives investigating apparent suicide near US Highway 441 overpass Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / April 1, 2026

Law enforcement activity in Eustis tied to apparent suicide, chief says

Update: Eustis detectives investigating apparent suicide near US Highway 441 overpass – Inside Lake EUSTIS, Fla. — A large law enforcement response near U.S. Highway 441 and State Road 19 is tied to an apparent suicide, Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri said. Police responded to the scene shorty before 1:30 p.m. Wednesday. Details remain limited, but there is no danger to the public, Capri said. If you are struggling or having suicidal thoughts, help is available by calling the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline on your cell phone at 988.

Law enforcement activity in Eustis tied to apparent suicide, chief says Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / April 1, 2026

Japan Festival Eustis to debut Saturday in downtown Eustis

EUSTIS, Fla. — Downtown Eustis will turn into a hub of Japanese culture Saturday as the city hosts the inaugural Japan Festival Eustis. The free festival runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday, March 28 and will feature a full day of performances, demonstrations and interactive activities. Admission and parking are free. Festivalgoers can expect taiko drumming, koto harp music and traditional dance, along with a preview performance from Orlando Opera’s upcoming production of Madama Butterfly. Martial arts demonstrations—including Kyudo, Iaido, Judo and Kendo—are scheduled throughout the day, along with a large-scale shodo calligraphy demonstration. Hands-on activities will include

Japan Festival Eustis to debut Saturday in downtown Eustis Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / March 26, 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 / 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 / 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 / March 19, 2026

Pedestrian killed Wednesday identified as Eustis woman

EUSTIS, Fla. — The pedestrian killed Wednesday afternoon in Eustis has been identified. Teresa Ann Ramsey, 61, of Eustis, was struck after entering the roadway in the 2100 block of East Orange Avenue on foot, around 1:20 p.m., according to Eustis Police Department. She was transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares, where she was pronounced deceased. The crash shut down Orange Avenue, also known as State Road 44, for about three hours. Mount Dora Police Department is assisting with the investigation and it remains ongoing, EPD Chief Craig Capri said.    

Pedestrian killed Wednesday identified as Eustis woman Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / March 19, 2026

Man previously arrested for personal “emergency” 911 calls arrested again for exposure in Tavares

TAVARES, Fla. — The man arrested for calling 911 in December 2025 for his “sexual emergency” has been arrested again, this time for exposing himself to multiple people, including two Tavares police officers. Jess Hubbard, 40, who has been booked into the Lake County Jail 20 times since 2021, was arrested shortly before 9 p.m. Monday after a woman reported seeing him near her home. She told police he appeared “confused” and claimed he lived there. He doesn’t. Tavares Police Department officers arrived at an undisclosed location and found the complainant, a neighbor and Hubbard standing outside. An officer spoke

Man previously arrested for personal “emergency” 911 calls arrested again for exposure in Tavares Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares / By / March 19, 2026

Gas leak shuts down street in Eustis

EUSTIS, Fla. — A gas leak has shut down a major roadway Eustis. Grove Street is closed at Orange Avenue, due to a gas leak in the area of Wilt Avenue, according to Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri, and may remain closed for an extended period. Drivers are advised to seek an alternate route. This was the second shutdown of a major roadway in Eustis on Wednesday. A crash involving a pedestrian closed Orange Avenue earlier in the day; it reopened around 4:15 p.m.

Gas leak shuts down street in Eustis Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / March 18, 2026

BREAKING NEWS: Crash involving pedestrian shuts down major Eustis road

EUSTIS, Fla. — Orange Avenue is shut down as Eustis Police Department investigates a crash involving a pedestrian, according to Chief Craig Capri. The crash, in the 2100 block of East Orange Avenue, also known as State Road 44, occurred around 1:20 p.m. Orange Orange Avenue is closed between Ohio Boulevard and Cardinal Street, and is expected to be closed for several hours, Capri said.

BREAKING NEWS: Crash involving pedestrian shuts down major Eustis road Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / March 18, 2026

Mount Dora fire lieutenant replaced medication with water, police say

MOUNT DORA, Fla. — A Mount Dora Fire Department lieutenant is facing charges after police say he tampered with medication by replacing it with water. Jesse Ravenscraft, 36, a firefighter paramedic with the City of Mount Dora since June 2017, was suspended without pay and resigned March 13, City of Mount Dora Director of Public Information Misty Sommer said. Ravenscraft was arrested March 6 and is facing a felony charge of reckless tampering with a product risking injury and a misdemeanor charge of petit theft, following an investigation by Mount Dora Police Department. “The Mount Dora Fire Department recently identified

Mount Dora fire lieutenant replaced medication with water, police say Read More »

Inside Scoop, Mount Dora, Tavares / By / March 13, 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 / 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 / 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 / March 5, 2026

Leesburg police identify man found shot multiple times

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

Leesburg police identify man found shot multiple times Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / March 5, 2026

Man found shot multiple times; Leesburg police investigating

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

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

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / March 4, 2026

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 / March 3, 2026

Pair charged in deadly Leesburg park shooting

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

Pair charged in deadly Leesburg park shooting Read More »

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

Five years after Melissa Nease’s murder, her family is still waiting for justice

TAVARES, Fla. — Five years ago, Feb. 28, 2021, was just another Sunday as Amy Harris went about her day — until a phone call changed everything. On the other end was her sister Melissa Nease’s best friend, Abby Henderson, telling her something had happened. Harris couldn’t get answers, so she started driving. She knew it was bad, but she didn’t know she was driving toward something she would spend the next five years trying to understand. As she pulled up to her sister’s home in Ocklawaha on that warm February afternoon, she saw the blue lights. The law enforcement

Five years after Melissa Nease’s murder, her family is still waiting for justice Read More »

Inside Scoop, Tavares / By / February 28, 2026

Groveland motorcyclist killed in Orange County crash

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla.—A Groveland man has died after crashing a motorcycle into a guardrail early Saturday, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 45-year-old man was riding a 2021 Harley-Davidson Road Glide westbound in the outside lane of State Road 408 near State Road 50 when veered ff the road for an unknown reason and struck a guardrail, shortly before 1:30 a.m., FHP said. The man was transported to AdventHealth East and pronounced deceased. The crash remains under investigation.

Groveland motorcyclist killed in Orange County crash Read More »

Groveland, Inside Scoop / By / February 28, 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 / 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 / February 22, 2026

Teen arrested with loaded rifle at Eustis African-American Heritage Festival

EUSTIS, Fla. — A tip from an anonymous witness during the African-American Heritage Festival at Carver Park led officers to a teenager who police say was carrying a loaded AR-15-style rifle concealed on his person Saturday afternoon, according to Eustis Police Department Chief Craig Capri. Around 3:45 p.m., the witness approached two EPD officers and reported seeing the teen, later identified as 17-year-old Jarvis Smith, with what appeared to be a rifle concealed in his right pant leg, Capri said. Officers located Smith at Bates Avenue and Wall Street and detained him. During the detention, an officer saw the black

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Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / February 22, 2026

Police release identity of woman killed in Eustis hit-and-run

EUSTIS, Fla. — Police have released the identity of the woman killed on Lakeshore Drive Friday morning. Tracy Schievenin, 48, was riding a bicycle southbound on Lakeshore Drive, approaching the intersection of Eustis Road when she was struck from behind by an unknown vehicle, according to Eustis Police Department. The unknown vehicle fled the scene and Schievenin was later found deceased, EPD said. The investigation closed a portion of Lakeshore Drive for nearly seven hours. It was the second closure of the road this week; authorities shut it down Monday for several hours due to a washout before reopening it

Police release identity of woman killed in Eustis hit-and-run Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / February 20, 2026

Fatal hit-and-run investigation closes Lakeshore Drive in Eustis

Update: Police release identity of woman killed in Eustis hit-and-run – Inside Lake EUSTIS, Fla. — A fatal hit-and-run has shut down a popular Eustis roadway, according to Eustis Police Chief Craig Capri. Lakeshore Drive is closed between Eustis Road and Woodward Avenue as authorities investigate after a pedestrian was found deceased Friday morning, Capri told Inside Lake. This is a developing story.

Fatal hit-and-run investigation closes Lakeshore Drive in Eustis Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / February 20, 2026

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

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

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

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

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 / February 18, 2026

Eustis’ Lakeshore Drive reopens after repair

Update: The roadway has reopened. EUSTIS, Fla.— A washout has closed a portion of a popular route between Eustis and Tavares. Shortly before 5 p.m. Monday, Eustis Police Department announced the closure of Lakeshore Drive between Eustis Road and Clay Boulevard due to a washout. EPD is on the scene with the Public Works Department while they assess damage, EPD said.

Eustis’ Lakeshore Drive reopens after repair Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / February 16, 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 / February 16, 2026

Pedestrian killed in Leesburg crash Friday

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

Pedestrian killed in Leesburg crash Friday Read More »

Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / February 7, 2026

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 / 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 / February 5, 2026

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

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

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

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

Person of interest in Eustis park stabbing in custody, police say

EUSTIS, Fla.— The hunt for the person of interest in a stabbing Tuesday is over, according to Eustis Police Department. James Edward Thompson Jr. was taken into custody in Leesburg with the help of Leesburg Police Department, EPD said. Thompson Jr. is a person of interest in a stabbing that occurred around 1 p.m. at popular Ferran Park in downtown Eustis. An unidentified victim was stabbed multiple times; police have not released the victim’s name or their condition. If you have information on the incident, call EPD at 352-483-5400. Previous story: https://insidelake.com/2026/02/03/video-more-details-released-in-eustis-stabbing/

Person of interest in Eustis park stabbing in custody, police say Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / February 3, 2026

VIDEO: More details released in Eustis stabbing

EUSTIS, Fla.— Eustis Police Department is still searching for an individual it is calling a “person of interest” in a stabbing in downtown Eustis Tuesday. Around 1 p.m., the unnamed victim was stabbed multiple times at Ferran Park and the suspect fled on foot, police said. Late Tuesday afternoon, EPD released video and additional photos seeking the public’s help identifying the “person of interest.” Police said the individual is considered armed and dangerous and warned residents not to approach.   If you have information on the incident or the identity of the person of interest, call EPD at 352-483-5400, or

VIDEO: More details released in Eustis stabbing Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / February 3, 2026

Eustis police searching for person of interest in alleged stabbing at Ferran Park

Update: https://insidelake.com/2026/02/03/video-more-details-released-in-eustis-stabbing/  EUSTIS, Fla.— Eustis Police Department is searching for a man it is calling a “person of interest” in an alleged stabbing at Ferran Park Tuesday. The incident occurred around 1 p.m., EPD said in a social media post. No other information was released. The man is considered armed and dangerous and police are asking residents not to approach him. If you have information on the incident or the identity of the person of interest, call EPD at 352-483-5400.

Eustis police searching for person of interest in alleged stabbing at Ferran Park Read More »

Eustis, Inside Scoop / By / February 3, 2026

Tavares man killed in crash Sunday

TAVARES, Fla.— Tavares Police Department is investigating a crash that killed a man Sunday. Blake Sawyer, 21, of Tavares, was riding a dirt bike on Dead River Road shortly before 12:15 p.m. when he attempted to pass vehicles using the shoulder, according to a preliminary investigation, Tavares Police Department Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said. Sawyer struck a pole and crashed. He was wearing a helmet, Sullivan said. Sawyer was transported to an area hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. The crash remains under investigation.

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Inside Scoop, Tavares / By / February 2, 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

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Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By / 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.

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Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By / January 29, 2026

Man caught on video setting SUV on fire in Tavares, police say

TAVARES, Fla.—A Tangerine man accused of setting his girlfriend’s rental SUV on fire is facing an arson charge and a drug charge after Tavares police said they found a baggie of oxycodone pills in the vehicle’s center console during his arrest, according to an arrest affidavit.. Shortly before 8:15 a.m. Sunday, Tavares Police Department received a report of a vehicle fire at an undisclosed location. A caller reported multiple people leaving a home after a vehicle door was opened and flames emerged. TPD and Tavares Fire Department responded and firefighters extinguished the fire, according to the affidavit. While TPD was

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Inside Scoop, Tavares / By / January 28, 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

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Inside Scoop, Umatilla, Unincorporated Lake / By / January 21, 2026

Mount Dora police searching for armed robber

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—Mount Dora Police Department is searching for a suspect who robbed a fast-food restaurant Friday morning. Around 6:30 a.m. a masked gunman entered Wendy’s, 18890 U.S. Highway 441 and robbed the restaurant of an undisclosed amount of cash. No one was injured, MDPD spokesperson Misty Sommer said. The suspect is described as a black male with a slightly heavy build, late teens to early 20s, and he was wearing all black clothing and a black beanie, along with a surgical mask. If you have information, call MDPD at 352-735-7130.

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Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By / January 16, 2026

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

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

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Inside Scoop, Leesburg / By / January 16, 2026
Kimberley Mills was sentenced to life in prison Wednesday for the murder of her 10-year-old son Xavier.

Tavares mom to spend the rest of her life in prison for murder of son, will testify against boyfriend

TAVARES, Fla.—The Tavares mom accused of torturing her son to death last year will spend the rest of her life in prison in exchange for testifying against her boyfriend, according to the State Attorney’s Office. Kimberley Leonie Mills, 38, was adjudicated guilty and sentenced to life in prison Wednesday for the murder of her 10-year-old son Xavier. Her co-defendant and boyfriend at the time of the murder, Andre Dwayne Walker, 37, is set to stand trial later this year and Mills will testify against him. Assistant State Attorneys Ken Nunnelley and Nicholas Camuccio will prosecute Walker, the SAO said in

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Inside Scoop, Tavares / By / January 14, 2026

Anonymous threat prompts lockdown at Lake Minneola High Monday

Update 1:55 p.m.: The lockdown at Lake Minneola High School has been lifted.  MINNEOLA, Fla.—An anonymous bomb threat was the cause of the lockdown at Lake Minneola High School Monday, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. “An anonymous caller made a threat this morning against Lake Minneola High School,” LCSO Deputy Stephanie Earley said. “The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating. We have no reason to believe this i s a credible threat, but we are responding with an abundance of caution following protocol to make sure students and staff are safe.” Campus access is temporarily restricted while

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Inside Scoop, Minneola / By / January 12, 2026

Lake Minneola High on lockdown, deputies say

MINNEOLA, Fla.—Lake Minneola High School is on lockdown regarding a bomb threat Monday, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. “Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies are at the school canvassing the area. The investigation is being conducted according to standard protocol and procedures,” LCSO Deputy Stephanie Earley said. This is developing story.

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Inside Scoop, Minneola / By / January 12, 2026

FHP: Howey-in-the-Hills motorcyclist thrown from bike, killed Sunday in Montverde

MONTVERDE, Fla.—A 39-year-old Howey-in-the-Hills man was thrown from his motorcycle and killed Sunday afternoon when he ran off the road, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly before 5:15 p.m., the man was riding a 2007 Suzuki GSX-R600 northbound on County Road 455, approaching Woodlands Drive when he failed to negotiate a curve and ran off the road, FHP said. He was thrown from the motorcycle and pronounced deceased on the scene. He was wearing a helmet, FHP said.

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Howey-in-the-Hills, Inside Scoop, Montverde / By / January 11, 2026

2 killed in Sumter County golf cart crash

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

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

Tavares man arrested after running amok with a wrench Monday, police say

TAVARES, Fla.—A Tavares man is facing charges of robbery, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest after threatening to kill a woman with a wrench if she didn’t give him a cigarette, threatening to kill another man and running up a flight of stairs to avoid arrest, according to Tavares Police Department. According to an arrest affidavit, TPD responded to Dollar General, 395 East Burleigh Boulevard, after a woman reported she was robbed and threatened with a wrench. The woman told police she was outside smoking when a man, later identified as Michael Newton, 48, asked her for a cigarette. She told

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Inside Scoop, Tavares / By / January 7, 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

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Eustis, Inside Scoop, Unincorporated Lake / By / January 6, 2026

Mount Dora to ring in the New Year at Sunset Park

MOUNT DORA, Fla.—The City of Mount Dora invites residents and visitors to ring in 2026 with a New Year’s Eve Celebration Wednesday night. The festivities kick off at 9 p.m. at Sunset Park, 230 West 4th Avenue, and continue until 12:30 a.m., and include a live performances by Mel’s Mighty Mo Town Machine and Blues Brothers Tribute, street games and a fireworks display over Lake Dora at midnight. A VIP Experience is available with special perks and surprises throughout the evening, visit: www.MountDora.gov

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Inside Scoop, Mount Dora / By / December 30, 2025
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