Leesburg

Police search for persons of interest in deadly Leesburg park shooting

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

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Trial set to begin in ’24 murder of Leesburg store owner

TAVARES, Fla.—The trial of the man accused of killing a Leesburg store owner is scheduled to begin this week, according to court records. Alex Lopez, 26, is accused of gunning down Raied “Ray” Shihadeh, 51, during a robbery at Fast Stop Superette, 3702 Picciola Road, on May 30, 2024 and fleeing the scene. Shihadeh was airlifted to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, where he died from his injuries. Lopez, of Wildwood, was on the run for nearly a month after the murder, before being captured at a Kissimmee motel by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Violent Crimes Task Force.

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

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

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FHP continues to investigate Orange County hit-and-run crash that killed Leesburg man

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla.—The car believed to be involved in an Orange County hit-and-crash that killed a Leesburg man Monday night is in the custody of the Florida Highway Patrol, troopers said Saturday. A 36-year-old Orlando man was driving a 2003 Honda Accord eastbound in the center lane of Silver Star Road near Le Harve Boulevard when he struck a 33-year-old Leesburg man who was walking in the eastbound lanes around 11:15 p.m., FHP said. The Leesburg man was not in a marked crosswalk. The Orlando man stopped, and while he was assisting the Leesburg man, they were both struck by

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Man once declared insane arrested again after alleged Leesburg attack, police say

LEESBURG, Fla.—A man once cleared of an aggravated assault charge by reason of insanity is back behind bars after allegedly attacking a good Samaritan last week. Preston Wade Greenlee, 54, was arrested Wednesday, after Leesburg Police Department responded to a report of a physical altercation between two men at Palm Plaza on 14th Street around 4:30 pm. One of the men was described as a white male wearing a red and white plaid shirt, armed with a pair of scissors, according to an arrest affidavit. When LPD arrived, an officer found the victim, beaten and bloody, and a witness said

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Lake County cities to honor Veterans with parades and ceremonies

LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — Communities across Lake County will host a series of events in observance of Veterans Day, beginning Saturday with three parades and continuing Tuesday with two special ceremonies. CLERMONT The City of Clermont 2025 Veterans Day Celebration begins at 10 a.m. with a parade at 12th Street and Montrose Street, and ending at Waterfront Park with a car show, vendors, food trucks, music, guest speakers and a kids zone. A ceremony is scheduled for noon. EUSTIS The City of Eustis’ Salute to Veterans is an all-day event scheduled for Saturday at Ferran Park in Downtown Eustis. The

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Collision with tow truck kills teen on Turnpike Saturday night

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

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Two Deadly Crashes Close Major Roads near Groveland and Leesburg

LAKE COUNTY, Fla—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating two deadly crashes that completely shut down State Road 50 near Groveland and one lane of Florida’s Turnpike near Leesburg Saturday night. The first crash occurred around 9:45 p.m. Saturday, killing at least one person and shutting down the southbound right lane at mile marker 291 near Leesburg, according to FHP’s website. FHP is also investigating a fatal crash that occurred less than 30 minutes later on State Road 50 near Sloans Ridge Road, outside of Groveland, completely shutting down State Road 50. This is the second fatal crash in that area

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The Leesburg Blue Foundation Blue Runway 5K scheduled for Saturday night

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Leesburg Blue Foundation is gearing up for its one-of-a-kind Blue Runway 5K scheduled for Saturday night at Leesburg International Airport.  Participants can walk, jog or run on the airport’s runways while supporting the nonprofit organization that provides resources to support Leesburg Police Department. The race begins at 7 p.m., and all proceeds will benefit the Leesburg Blue Foundation, which is an independent nonprofit organization that provides resources to support Leesburg Police Department, LPD Lt. Shannon Walsh said last year. “The organization aims to help innovate and improve the quality of its services; build bridges with the community; and

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Boy, 8, airlifted after falling off pontoon boat Tuesday

LEESBURG, Fla.—An 8-year-old boy was airlifted after falling off a boat on Lake Harris, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC.) FWC and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded to single-vessel incident on Lake Harris Tuesday and found that the boy fell overboard from pontoon boat he was on with his family. He was airlifted to a local hospital for treatment, and the incident remains under investigation.

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Technology leads police to suspect in Leesburg crash that injured woman last month

LEESBURG, Fla—A Wildwood man has been released on $25,000 bond after being arrested for fleeing a crash that left a woman with a severely broken leg last month. Freddie Southall III, 33, is accused of hitting a woman who ran into the roadway on Center Street, near North 15th Street on Aug. 27, and fleeing the scene, according to an arrest affidavit. Court records identify the woman as Massie Williams, 39. Following the hit-and-run, Leesburg Police Department located Williams at 3:22 a.m. and she was transported to Orlando Regional Medical Center with a “severely” broken leg. Police found vehicle parts

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FWC identifies boater found in Lake Harris Friday

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has identified the man found deceased in Lake Harris Friday. Thomas “Tommy” Griffin, of Leesburg took his jon boat out on Lake Harris Thursday night and it was discovered empty around 9 a.m. Friday, FWC Officer Chad Weber told Inside Lake Saturday.  FWC and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded to Singletary Park on South 14th Street in Leesburg and began searching for Griffin.  Around 7:30 pm. Friday, LCSO’s helicopter, Eagle One, found Griffin deceased, according to Weber. The incident remained under investigation Sunday and no other information has been released.

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Body recovered Friday after unattended boat found on Lake Harris

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is investigating the death of a man found in Lake Harris in Leesburg Friday. Around 9 a.m. Friday, someone reported finding an unattended boat, and FWC and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded and began searching, FWC Officer Chad Weber told Inside Lake. Authorities spent the day searching the area near Singletary Park on South 14th Street in Leesburg. Around 7:30 pm., LCSO’s helicopter, Eagle One, found the man deceased, according to Weber. The man’s name and cause of death have not been released, pending confirmation of notification of next of

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Eustis man sentenced to 15 years in prison in ‘23 drug trafficking case

TAVARES, Florida— A man arrested many times for multiple felonies but seldom convicted in past cases, was convicted of drug trafficking and sentenced to 15 years in prison stemming from a 2023 case, according to the Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office. Emmanuel Cazeau, now 41, of Eustis, was pulled over in June 2023 by Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies for a minor traffic offense as he pulled out of Circle K, at the corner of County Road 44 and County Road 473 in unincorporated Leesburg, according to an arrest affidavit. Deputies asked for consent to search Cazeau’s vehicle, which

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Leesburg schools locked down Thursday after report of “possibly” armed person

LEESBURG, Fla.—A report of person who was possibly armed locked down an elementary school and a middle school in Leesburg Thursday morning, according to Leesburg Police Department. Around 8:30 a.m., someone reported seeing an individual who was possibly armed near Leesburg Elementary School (LES) on South Street and officers were immediately dispatched to LES and nearby Oak Park Middle School, LPD said. Both schools were placed on lockdown and LPD and Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies conducted a thorough search of school grounds and the surrounding area, on foot and with the assistance of drones and LCSO’s helicopter, Eagle One.

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Trenton Duckett candlelight vigil set for Wednesday

LEESBURG, Florida—Wednesday marks 19 years since Trenton Duckett was reported missing and his family once again will hold a candlelight vigil in his honor. The vigil is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Leesburg Town Square, 500 West Main Street, hosted by Trenton’s father Joshua, and his grandmother Carla Fort. Nineteen years ago, Leesburg and Lake County drew national attention when a mother embroiled in a divorce and custody dispute reported her toddler missing. In the two weeks after Trenton Duckett was reported missing, the case took dramatic turns as police found sonogram photos in a dumpster, accused his father of

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Alleged Leesburg drunk driver returned to deadly scene by family member, FHP says

LEESBURG, Fla.— A elderly Leesburg man is dead, and another Leesburg man is facing charges in his death after a hit-and-run on Radio Road Monday night, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 9:10 p.m., Kevin Custer, 37, was driving a 2012 Toyota Tacoma northbound on Radio Road, approaching Patrick Drive, when he struck a 75-year-old man walking on Radio Road. Custer fled the scene, and the pedestrian was transported to UF Health Leesburg Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased, FHP said. Custer was returned to the scene by a family member and arrested for hit-and-run involving death and DUI

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Mount Dora woman killed in Leesburg crash

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Mount Dora woman was killed early Saturday morning after crashing into a tree, according to Leesburg Police Department. Just before 3:45 a.m., LPD responded to a report of a crash near the intersection of Main Street and Mike Street, and found Paulakay Gupton Dubose, 57, suffering from life-threatening injuries, Lt. Shannon Walsh said. Dubose was transported to UF Health Leesburg, where she died from her injuries. Police believe Dubose was traveling eastbound on Main Street in a 2024 blue Nissan when she left the roadway and struck a tree. The crash closed the westbound lanes of Main Street

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Leesburg teen killed, 3 teens in serious condition after early morning crash

DeLAND, Fla—A 17-year-old Leesburg girl was killed, and four other people are in serious condition after a pickup truck and car collided before daybreak Saturday in the DeLand area of Lake County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Shortly before 4:15 a.m., a 43-year-old DeLand man was driving a 2011 Dodge Ram 1500 eastbound on State Road 44 when the front right of the truck struck the front right of a 2015 Dodge Charger traveling westbound near Tomahawk Trail. The sequence of events that led to the crash is still under investigation, Trooper Migdalisis Garcia said. The driver of the

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Leesburg shooting victim identified, suspect facing murder charges

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has identified the man shot and killed Friday night. Around 7 p.m., Dontae D. Copeland, 20, of Leesburg was found suffering from at least one gunshot wound in the 1000 block of Tuskegee Street, LPD Lt. Shannon Walsh said. Officers and EMS personnel rendered aid to Copeland, and he was transported to UF Health Leesburg Hospital, where he was pronounced deceased. While investigating the murder Friday, Kameryn Pickard, 18, of Mount Dora, turned himself in with his father at LPD, Walsh said. He was later arrested for premeditated murder and conspiracy – solicit, and is being

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Father turns son in after man shot and killed in Leesburg Friday night

Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story inaccurately stated Kameryn Pickard’s age due to incorrect information released by Leesburg Police Department. The story has been updated with Pickard’s correct age.  LEESBURG, Fla.—An 18-year-old Mount Dora man is facing charges for killing another man after his father turned him in to Leesburg police Friday. Leesburg Police Department responded to a shooting in the 1000 block of Tuskegee Street around 7 p.m. Friday. When officers arrived, they found a 20-year-old man shot and officers, along with EMS, rendered aid to the man. He was transported to UF Health Leesburg Hospital and

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Leesburg man accused of uploading child pornography to social media, arrested and released

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Leesburg man has been released on $25,000 bond following an arrest by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) for possession of child pornography. FDLE began its investigation in November 2024 after receiving a cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Endangered Children (NCMEC) regarding an individual uploading child sexual abuse materials (CSAM) to a Snapchat account. The investigation identified Bautista as the owner of the email address attached to the account, according to FDLE. FDLE agents executed a search warrant at Bautista’s Leesburg home and seized multiple electronic devices. A consequent forensic analysis of the phone

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Tavares cleaning company eases the burden for cancer patients

TAVARES, Fla.— A local cleaning company is continuing its mission of giving back to residents who are fighting cancer—and to them, the mission is personal. For the third year running, Bright Side Services Inc. of Tavares has partnered with Cleaning for a Reason, a non-profit organization that pairs residents who are undergoing cancer treatment with local cleaning companies that donate two free house cleaning sessions. Founded by Debbie Sardone of Buckets & Bows Maid Service in Texas, cleaning companies from across the country participate, including Tavares-based Bright Side Services Inc., owned by Michelle and Mike Krueger. They have participated in

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Leesburg motorcyclist killed in hit-and-run crash in Minneola Saturday night

MINNEOLA, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is looking for the driver of a Chevy Tahoe that killed a motorcyclist late Saturday night and fled the scene, FHP said Sunday morning. Just before 10:45 p.m., a 36-year Leesburg woman on a 2009 Yamaha motorcycle was stopped at the traffic light in the inside lane at U.S. Highway 27 and Citrus Grove Road and a 2024 Honda HR-V, was southbound approaching the light, according to FHP. The light turned green, and the motorcycle started to proceed forward and the Honda swerved into the outside lane to avoid the motorcycle. A 2001 Chevy Tahoe

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6th Annual Lake County Back the Blue & Red Walk scheduled for Saturday

TAVARES, Fla.—For the sixth year running, public safety and its supporters will join forces for the annual Lake County Back the Blue & Red Walk. Scheduled for 9 a.m. Saturday at Wooton Park in Tavares, this is one of many law enforcement-related events around Lake County held in May during Law Enforcement Appreciation Month and last year, Organizer Shannon Cook added firefighters to the appreciation walk. The walk began in 2019 to show support for law enforcement during a time when the “defund the police” movement was making its way across the country, Cook said, representatives from several law enforcement

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Wrong way crash near Groveland kills Altamonte Springs woman, injures 2 Leesburg women

GROVELAND, Fla.—A woman driving the wrong way down U.S. Highway 27 was killed Wednesday and two other women were injured, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 9:45 p.m., a 30-year-old Altamonte Springs woman was driving a 2017 Dodge Charger southbound in the northbound inside lane north of Adkins Lane near Groveland when she struck a 2017 Toyota Corolla head-on. The Charger rotated clockwise, causing a 2016 Jeep Renegade to collide with the left side of the Charger. The driver of the Charger was pronounced deceased on the scene, the driver of the Corolla, a 45-year-old Leesburg woman, suffered minor

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Additional arrest made in 2024 Leesburg murder

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has made another arrest in the murder of a 20-year-old man last year. Neville G. Muirhead, 22, was arrested on Jacaranda Drive in Lady Lake by Leesburg Police Department with the assistance of Lady Lake Police Department and Mid Florida SWAT around 2 p.m. Tuesday, LPD Lt. Shannon Walsh said. “Detectives from the Leesburg Police Department have been diligently investigating this case, focusing on locating additional evidence and collaborating with the State Attorney’s Office,” Walsh said in an email. “Our detective division will continue to investigate this case and encourages the public to come forward with

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Man arrested for crash that killed Leesburg man in 2023

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Leesburg man has been arrested in the death of a 94-year-old man killed in a crash in December 2023. Donald Urban Jass, also of Leesburg, was driving a 2015 Subaru Forester eastbound on Plantation Boulevard when a 2017 Chevy Malibu slammed into him at the intersection of U.S. Highway 27. The Malibu was traveling between 62 and 74 miles per hour at impact, and was traveling at 81 miles per hour just 1.5 seconds before the crash, the vehicle’s data later showed. The Malibu’s driver, Graedonn Humphrey, was southbound on U.S. Highway 27 when he ran the light

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Pedestrian killed near Leesburg Thursday morning

LEESBURG, Fla.—A pedestrian walking in the road was killed after a car hit her early Thursday morning, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The 40-year-old Wildwood woman was walking in the eastbound lane of County Road 44 near Cypress Drive, outside of Leesburg, and was struck by a 2015 Ford Focus being driven by 69-year-old Leesburg man around 4:10 a.m.. The woman was transported to UF Health Leesburg Hospital, where she was pronounced deceased. The Leesburg man was not injured.

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Victim shot and robbed Sunday, Leesburg police searching for accused gunman

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is searching for a man it says robbed and shot someone Sunday night. Around 8 p.m., LPD responded to the 100 block of Truitt Street on a report of a shooting and found the 51-year-old victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper body, LPD Lt. Shannon Walsh said. Police have not released the victim’s name or gender. The suspect fled the scene and police searched the area; Eagle One, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office helicopter, assisted in the search, but law enforcement was unable to locate him. The victim was transported to an area

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Summerfield man facing murder charges in deaths of victim and alleged accomplice in 2022 gunfight outside Leesburg

LEESBURG, Fla.—A man on the run for nearly a year is in custody facing murder charges in the deaths of his intended home invasion victim – and his alleged accomplice. Dieuseul Charlemon, 22, was taken into custody on multiple warrants including first- and second-degree murder on Jan. 31 by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, Ocala Police Department and US Marshals at 10131 SE 169th Lane, Summerfield after a months-long investigation, MCSO said. On Feb. 16, 2022, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded to 804 Montclair Road in unincorporated Leesburg on a report of a shooting around 4:30 a.m. There were

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Charge dismissed against dentist in 2023 golf course altercation, “Stand Your Ground” motion granted

TAVARES, Fla.—An aggravated battery charge a Leesburg dentist was facing has been dismissed after a Lake County Circuit judge granted a motion, based on Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law filed by his defense attorney last year. Dr. Eddie Orobitg was arrested following an altercation on the Harbor Hills golf course in unincorporated Leesburg in April 2023, accused of beating another man with a golf club. The altercation began when Orobitg yelled at Dr. Joseph Sivak and his wife as they walked on the 11th fairway, approximately 60 yards away from where Orobitg was golfing with his minor son, according to

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Mount Dora man killed in single-vehicle Tavares crash

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is investigating after a man was found deceased in his crashed vehicle by a passerby early Wednesday morning. At 12:50 a.m., a 911 caller reported he was walking and saw overturned truck in an open construction field in the area of Dead River Road and Sierra Drive approximately 50 yards from the roadway. Police are unsure how long the 2018 Chevrolet pickup truck was there before it was discovered, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said, and are asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash to contact them. The driver, Michael Winterbottom, 63, of Mount

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Purple Alert canceled, missing man found in Leesburg

Update: 9:45 p.m. Mark Lang has been found safe at Gateway Plaza in Leesburg, according to LPD. Lt. Shannon Walsh.  LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing man. A Purple Alert has been issued for Mark Lang, 64,  who is described as a white male, 125 pounds, 5 feet, 11 inches tall, with gray hair and blue eyes. He was last seen wearing a blue shirt with a fishing design, black dress pants and black Skechers shoes. He walks with a stagger that may cause him to drag his legs. Lang may be driving

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Pedestrian hit by tractor-trailer on US 27 in Leesburg Monday night

LEESBURG, Fla.—A pedestrian has died from injuries he sustained after he was hit by a tractor-trailer in Leesburg Monday night. The pedestrian, a 34-year-old male of Leesburg, who has not been identified pending notification of next of kin, was struck crossing U.S. Highway 27 near County Road 48, by a red 2024 International tractor-trailer being driven southbound by Daniel Morales-Barrios, 34, of Davenport, Leesburg Police Department Lt. Shannon Walsh said. The crash closed U.S. Highway 27 for nearly three hours. The Leesburg man sustained life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to Orlando Regional Medical Center, where he died, according to Walsh.

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One dead, one injured in early morning crash near Leesburg

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that killed a man outside of Leesburg early Sunday morning. A 26-year-old man of Puerto Rico was driving a 2024 Chevy Malibu eastbound on County Road 48 approaching County Road 33, shortly before 2:30 a.m. He ran the stop sign at County Road 33, went off the roadway, became airborne over a ditch, struck a tree and overturned, FHP said. The driver suffered minor injuries and was transported to UF Health Leesburg Hospital; his passenger, a 41-year-old male, also of Puerto Rico was also transported and pronounced deceased. The crash remains

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Leesburg High freshman arrested after loaded gun found in backpack

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Leesburg High School freshman was arrested for possessing a loaded, stolen gun Thursday after a Lake County Sheriff’s Office vape-detection dog alerted on the student’s backpack. K9 Samba and her handler Erica Samborski assisted Leesburg Police Department school resource officers with a prescheduled visit to LHS for a routine check for contraband and illegal items. Samba alerted on a backpack in the media room where students often leave their belongings, according to LCSO. No students were present at the time of the search and after Samba’s alert, the backpack was searched and a loaded 9mm Glock was found.

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CR 439 shut down near Eustis as FHP investigates fatal crash involving dump truck

EUSTIS, Fla.—An Altoona woman was killed Tuesday morning after a dump truck veered into her lane and slammed into her head-on outside of Eustis, shutting down County Road 439. Just before 8:30 a.m., a 1994 dump truck was northbound on County Road 439, when the driver, a 28-year-old Leesburg man, attempted to brake for traffic stopped ahead near County Road 44A. He veered into the southbound lane and hit a 2019 Toyota Corolla head-on. The driver of the Toyota, a 23-year-old Altoona woman, was transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares, where she was pronounced deceased. The Leesburg man was not

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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.

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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 »

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 »

The Leesburg Blue Foundation Blue Runway 5K slated for next month, registration promo code available for Inside Lake readers

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Leesburg Blue Foundation is gearing up for its one-of-a-kind Blue Runway 5K scheduled for Sept. 21.  Participants can walk, jog or run on Leesburg International Airport’s runways while supporting the nonprofit organization that provides resources to support Leesburg Police Department. Race day registration begins at 7 a.m., followed by the race at 8 a.m. Participants will start at the taxiway intersection Alpha 4, Leesburg International Airport, 8807 Airport Boulevard, Leesburg and will receive a t-shirt and finisher medal “All proceeds will benefit the Leesburg Blue Foundation, which is an independent nonprofit organization that provides resources to support, assist

The Leesburg Blue Foundation Blue Runway 5K slated for next month, registration promo code available for Inside Lake readers Read More »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

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 »

Leesburg police release identity of man found dead near Ski Beach Monday

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has released the name of the man found dead near Ski Beach Monday night. Lucious W. Austin, 67, was spotted in Lake Harris near Ski Beach Bar and Grill around 7:15 p.m. and LPD, along with Leesburg Fire Department and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Underwater Search and Recovery Team responded to the scene and recovered Austin, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. Austin was turned over to the medical examiner (ME) and the preliminary investigation does not indicate foul play, Walsh said. LPD is still awaiting the ME’s final report and said Tuesday the department was

Leesburg police release identity of man found dead near Ski Beach Monday Read More »

Leesburg police investigating possible drowning

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is investigating after a man’s body was found floating in Lake Harris near Ski Beach Monday night. The man’s body was spotted near Ski Beach Bar and Grill around 7:15 p.m. and Leesburg Fire Department (LFD) responded with its boat, along with the Lake County Sheriff’s Office Underwater Search and Recovery Team. The man’s body was recovered, and he was turned over to the medical examiner’s office to determine cause of death, but police believe it may have been a drowning, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. Police have identified the man, described as a 67-year-old black

Leesburg police investigating possible drowning Read More »

Vehicle believed to be involved in Leesburg murder found, detectives actively working the case

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department has located a vehicle believed to be involved in the murder of a 20-year-old man Monday. James Jordan was found lying in the yard of a home in the 2200 block of Aitken Loop in Overlook at Lake Griffin around 2:30 p.m. Monday suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to UF Health Leesburg, where he died from his injuries, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. LPD located and seized the vehicle believed to be involved, and executed search warrants on the vehicle and the location it was recovered from, Walsh said. LPD has not released

Vehicle believed to be involved in Leesburg murder found, detectives actively working the case Read More »

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

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is investigating after a 20-year-old man was found suffering from multiple gunshot wounds Monday afternoon. LPD responded to Aitkin Loop in Overlook at Lake Griffin around 2:30 p.m. Monday in reference to a shooting and found James Jordan in the front yard of a home in the 2200 block, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, LPD Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. Officers rendered aid to Jordan until EMS and Leesburg Fire Department arrived and Jordan was transported to UF Health Leesburg, where he succumbed to his injuries. LPD set up a perimeter and utilized a K9 unit and

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

Accused murderer back in Lake County

TAVARES, Fla.—The man police believe is responsible for the murder of a Leesburg store owner was booked into the Lake County Jail Friday morning. Alex Lopez, 25, is facing charges of premeditated murder, armed robbery and two other weapons offenses, and is being held on no bond. Lopez was on the run for nearly a month, while Leesburg Police Department worked with state, federal and local agencies to track him down and finally located him at a motel in Kissimmee around 7 p.m. Wednesday, Leesburg Police Department Sgt. Shannon Walsh said. He was taken into custody by the FDLE/Orlando –

Accused murderer back in Lake County Read More »

Trial set to begin in ‘24 murder of Leesburg store owner

TAVARES, Fla.—The trial of the man accused of killing a Leesburg store owner is scheduled to begin this week, according to court records. Alex Lopez, 26, is accused of gunning down Raied Shihadeh, 51, during a robbery at Fast Stop Superette, 3702 Picciola Road, on May 30, 2024 and fleeing the scene. Shihadeh was airlifted to HCA Florida Ocala Hospital, where he died from his injuries. Lopez, of Wildwood, was on the run for nearly a month after the murder, before being captured at a Kissimmee motel by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) Violent Crimes Task Force. Lopez

Trial set to begin in ‘24 murder of Leesburg store owner Read More »

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

VIDEO: Leesburg Police release surveillance video of store robbery

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

VIDEO: Leesburg Police release surveillance video of store robbery Read More »

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

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

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

Leesburg selects 30-year veteran as new police chief

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

Leesburg selects 30-year veteran as new police chief Read More »

Pedestrian killed in Sumter crash Friday morning

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

Pedestrian killed in Sumter crash Friday morning Read More »

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

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

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

Leesburg police chief promoted to deputy city manager

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

Leesburg police chief promoted to deputy city manager Read More »

Tavares motorcyclist killed in Leesburg crash Saturday

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

Tavares motorcyclist killed in Leesburg crash Saturday Read More »

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

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

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

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

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

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

LCSO: No apparent foul play in death of man Friday

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

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

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

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

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

LCSO investigating after EMS pronounces person deceased at Leesburg gas station

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

LCSO investigating after EMS pronounces person deceased at Leesburg gas station Read More »

Leesburg Woman Accused of Shooting 2 People Last Week in Custody

LEESBURG, Fla.—The woman accused of shooting two people in Leesburg last week is in custody after turning herself in to the Lake County Jail Sunday, according to Leesburg Police Department Capt. Joe Iozzi. Ra’Niyah M. Benton, 20, is accused of shooting a male and a female in the 1000 block of Crosby Steet in Leesburg around 4 p.m. Thursday. The victims went to UF Health Leesburg hospital on their own and the male victim was later flown to UF Health Shands Hospital in Gainesville as a precaution, Iozzi said last week. Their current conditions are unknown. Benton is facing two

Leesburg Woman Accused of Shooting 2 People Last Week in Custody Read More »

Argument Leads to Shooting and Lands Leesburg Man in Jail

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Leesburg man is being held in the Lake County Jail on no bond after shooting another man in unincorporated Leesburg late Monday night. Lake County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a home on County Road 452 shortly before 11:30 p.m. Monday on a report of an argument between Brandon Saunders and Mike Ford, according to an arrest affidavit. When deputies arrived, they found Ford lying on the ground suffering from two gunshot wounds and they began rendering aid to Ford, who was in and out of consciousness. He told deputies Saunders came after him and Ford “laid him

Argument Leads to Shooting and Lands Leesburg Man in Jail Read More »

Leesburg Police Searching for Shooting Suspect

LEESBURG, Fla—Leesburg Police Department is searching for a suspect who shot two people Thursday afternoon, according to LPD Capt. Joe Iozzi. Around 4 p.m. LPD responded to UF Health Leesburg Hospital regarding a shooting and found two victims, Iozzi said. Police determined the two victims, a 28-year-old male and a 20-year-old female were shot in the 1000 block of Crosby Street, about 10 blocks from the hospital. The male was flown to UF Health Shands Hospital inn Gainesville as a precaution and both victims are in stable condition. Police are now searching for Ra’Niyah M. Benton, 20, who is wanted

Leesburg Police Searching for Shooting Suspect Read More »

Man Writes 4-Page Apology Letter after Carjacking Elderly Relative

OKAHUMPKA, Fla.—A 27-year-old man is behind bars after an elderly woman he is related to reported he stole her car and battered her Tuesday. Around 10:15 p.m. Tuesday, the 77-year-old woman told deputies Alan Aspinwall wanted her to unlock her 2018 Toyota Corolla so he could get something out of the trunk in Okahumpka, according to an arrest affidavit. As she walked outside, Aspinwall grabbed the key from her, cutting her left hand, and then forcefully pushed her to the ground. He then jumped into the Corolla and fled the scene. She identified Aspinall as her relative, but the exact

Man Writes 4-Page Apology Letter after Carjacking Elderly Relative Read More »

Leesburg Police Investigating Possible Gun Battle in Busy Shopping Center Sunday Night

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is investigating after a man was shot around 9 p.m. Sunday night in a busy shopping center and police have few details, according to LPD Capt. Joe Iozzi. “The person shot is an adult male and evidence suggests there was an exchange of gunfire between at least two people at Southside Plaza, one possibly being the person who was shot,” Iozzi said. Police have not been able to interview the man due to his injuries and subsequent surgery, according to Iozzi. If you have information on the shooting, call LPD at 352-787-2121.

Leesburg Police Investigating Possible Gun Battle in Busy Shopping Center Sunday Night Read More »

Pedestrian Killed Near Leesburg Wednesday Morning

LEESBURG, Fla.—A pedestrian walking in the road was struck and killed in Leesburg Wednesday morning, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. Around 6:30 a.m., a 63-year-old Leesburg man was driving a 2020 Volkswagen Passat eastbound on Griffin Road near Pioneer Trail when he struck a 55-year-old Leesburg man who was walking in the eastbound lane of Griffin Road, FHP Lt. Tara Crescenzi said. The pedestrian was transported to UF Health Leesburg Hospital and pronounced deceased; the driver of the Passat was not injured. He remained on scene and told troopers he did not see the man walking in the road.

Pedestrian Killed Near Leesburg Wednesday Morning Read More »

Accused Leesburg Killer Surrenders

LEESBURG, Fla.—The teenager accused of killing a Leesburg man Wednesday has surrendered and is in the Lake County Jail, according to a Leesburg Police Department social media post. Kevin Harrison, 19, is accused of shooting Lekendre Hall, 37, at a home at 1906 West Main Street around 8:45 p.m. Wednesday. LPD responded to the scene and found Hall lying on the ground suffering from at least one gunshot wound; he was transported to UF Health Leesburg, where he was pronounced deceased from his injuries, Capt. Joe Iozzi said Thursday. Crime scene investigators and detectives responded to the scene and Harrison

Accused Leesburg Killer Surrenders Read More »

Leesburg Police Searching for Accused Killer

LEESBURG, Fla.—Leesburg Police Department is searching for a man they say shot and killed another man on Main Street Wednesday night. LPD responded to 1906 West Main Steet around 8:45 p.m. and found Lekendre Hall, 37, lying on the ground suffering from at least one gunshot wound. He was transported to UF Health Leesburg where he pronounced deceased, according to Capt. Joe Iozzi. “Leesburg officers secured the crime scene and detectives were then summoned along with Leesburg CSI,” Iozzi said, and after interviewing multiple witnesses, Kevin Harrison, 19, was identified as the shooter. Harrison has not been apprehended and LPD

Leesburg Police Searching for Accused Killer Read More »

Fentanyl, Cocaine, Marijuana, Stolen Gun Found During Umatilla Search Warrant, Trio Arrested

UMATILLA, Fla.—Three people are behind bars and $50,000 worth of drugs are off the streets following a search warrant at a Umatilla home early Wednesday, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. Acting on Crimeline tips and complaints, LCSO’s SWAT team, along with detectives from LCSO, Clermont Police Department, Eustis Police Department, Leesburg Police Department, Mount Dora Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security wrapped up a six-month long investigation Wednesday with the execution of the search warrant at 38945 Pine St., in unincorporated Umatilla. Law enforcement detained three people found inside the home, Robert Donaldson, 46, Joana Silva, 22,

Fentanyl, Cocaine, Marijuana, Stolen Gun Found During Umatilla Search Warrant, Trio Arrested Read More »

Leesburg Woman Arrested for Attempted Murder Held on No Bond

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Leesburg woman is being held in the Lake County Jail on no bond after she admitted she stabbed another woman, according to an arrest affidavit. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call early Wednesday morning stating a person had been stabbed at home in unincorporated Leesburg. The address where the stabbing occurred is redacted from the affidavit, but sources told Inside Lake it occurred on Kaylee Way, near Radio Road. The victim, whose name is also redacted from the affidavit, had approximately seven injuries “consistent with being stabbed with a knife or other edged implement,” and

Leesburg Woman Arrested for Attempted Murder Held on No Bond Read More »

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 »

Umatilla Man Killed in CR 452 Crash Tuesday

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Umatilla motorcyclist was killed Tuesday when a sedan made a left turn and collided with him, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. A 2013 Hyundai Sonata, being driven by a 91-year-old Apopka man, was eastbound on County Road 452, in the left turn lane, at Sandpiper Drive, near Leesburg, shortly before noon when it made a left turn in the direct path of a 2002 Kawasaki motorcycle being ridden by a 56-year-old Umatilla man, FHP Trooper Migdalisis Garcia said in a press release. The Umatilla man was transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares, where he was pronounced deceased,

Umatilla Man Killed in CR 452 Crash Tuesday Read More »

Motorcycle Fatality Shuts Down CR 452 Near Leesburg Tuesday

Update: Umatilla Man Killed in CR 452 Crash Tuesday – Inside Lake LEESBURG, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that killed a motorcyclist late Tuesday morning near Leesburg and shut down County Road 452. The crash occurred on County Road 452 near Sandpiper Drive, shortly before noon, and involved a Hyundai Sonata and a 2002 Kawasaki motorcycle, FHP Trooper Migdalisis Garcia said in an email.  The driver and the passenger in the Sonata were not injured and the motorcyclist was transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares and pronounced deceased. County Road 452 remained closed at press time.

Motorcycle Fatality Shuts Down CR 452 Near Leesburg Tuesday Read More »

Sunday Afternoon Crash Kills Leesburg Man, 94

LEESBURG, Fla.—A 94-year-old Leesburg man was killed Sunday afternoon when the SUV he was driving was struck by a car that ran a traffic light, according to the Florida Highway Patrol. The man was driving a 2015 Subaru Forester eastbound on Plantation Boulevard and was attempting to make a left turn on U.S. Highway 27 when he collided with a 2017 Chevrolet Malibu that was “unable to stop in time for the traffic signal,” around 4:15 p.m., Trooper Migdalisis Garcia said in a press release. The front of the Malibu struck the left side of the Forester and injured both

Sunday Afternoon Crash Kills Leesburg Man, 94 Read More »

Benefit for LCSO Deputy Diagnosed with Cancer Scheduled for Saturday

EUSTIS, Fla.—An event to benefit a Lake County Sheriff’s Office school resource deputy who was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year is scheduled for Saturday. What started as chest pain in 2022 turned into a terrifying diagnosis last summer for LCSO Cpl. Adam Tytler. In November 2022, Tytler went to a cardiologist for ongoing chest pain, and after a EKG showed his heart was in good shape, the cardiologist told him the pain was likely gastrointestinal. The next month, on Christmas Eve, Tytler discovered a swollen lymph node on his neck and by February the lymph node had not gotten

Benefit for LCSO Deputy Diagnosed with Cancer Scheduled for Saturday Read More »

Man Pleads Guilty to 2022 Murder of Leesburg Girlfriend

TAVARES, Fla.—In an unexpected twist Monday, a Leesburg man accused of gunning down his girlfriend last year pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon the same day jury selection for his trial was set to begin. Alphonza Bryant, 41, was sentenced to 45 years in prison for killing Melissa Keonna Smith, 37, in the laundry room of her Leesburg home on Aug. 8, 2022. Bryant was captured on video approaching Smith’s home, brandishing a firearm, and “engaging in a verbal altercation off-camera that culminated in a single gunshot,” Fifth Judicial Circuit State Attorney

Man Pleads Guilty to 2022 Murder of Leesburg Girlfriend Read More »

Motorcyclist Killed in Tavares Crash Friday Identified

TAVARES, Fla.—The motorcyclist killed in an early morning crash Friday has been publicly identified. Russell Pratt, 42, of Leesburg, was riding a 2019 Harley-Davidson northbound on U.S. Highway 441 and police believe he lost control of the bike west of Lakeshore Boulevard just before 1:45 a.m. Friday. The crash remains under investigation by Tavares Police Department. Pratt was transported to AdventHealth Waterman in Tavares, where he was pronounced deceased, TPD Public Information Officer Courtney Sullivan said. The crash closed the northbound lanes of U.S. Highway 441 for several hours and did not involve any other vehicles. Numerous people shared their

Motorcyclist Killed in Tavares Crash Friday Identified Read More »

Leesburg Motorcyclist Killed in Early Morning Tavares Crash

TAVARES, Fla.—Tavares Police Department is investigating a crash that killed a motorcyclist early Friday morning. A 42-year-old Leesburg man riding a 2019 Harley-Davidson crashed shortly before 1:45 a.m. on U.S. Highway 441, west of Lakeshore Boulevard. The man was transported to an area hospital where he later he died; he was not wearing a helmet. The crash closed the northbound lanes of U.S. Highway 441 for several hours and did not involve any other vehicles. Details of how the crash occurred are still under investigation, but police believe the man was riding northbound on U.S. Highway 441 when he lost

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Candlelight Vigil Held for Umatilla Teen Killed in Crash Monday

LEESBURG, Fla.—Dozens of vehicles lined both sides of Goose Prairie Road Tuesday night for a candlelight vigil held in remembrance of a teen who was killed in a crash Monday. The Florida Highway Patrol confirmed the names of both teens to Inside Lake Tuesday afternoon and loved ones and friends gathered to honor Michael Pasternak, 16, of Umatilla, who was the passenger in a Jeep Wrangler that overturned several times, killing him and the driver shortly before 8 p.m. Monday. Lane Johnson, 17, of Leesburg, was driving the 2016 Wrangler eastbound on Goose Prairie Road near Felkins Road when he

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FHP Releases More Information on Rollover Crash that Killed 2 Teens Near Leesburg

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol has released more information on a crash that killed two teens near Leesburg Monday night. FHP said two adult males were killed Monday night, but an early Tuesday morning press release stated the crash victims were a 17-year-old male of Leesburg and a 16-year-old male of Umatilla. The 17-year-old male was driving a 2016 Jeep Wrangler eastbound on Goose Prairie Road when it attempted to pass a 2005 Ford F-150 in a no-passing zone shortly before 8 p.m. Monday, FHP Lt. Tara Crescenzi said. The Wrangler entered the westbound lane and then tried to reenter

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Crash Kills 2 Near Leesburg Monday Night

LEESBURG, Fla.—The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a crash that killed two men shortly before 8 p.m. Monday night. A 2016 Jeep Wrangler was eastbound on Goose Prairie Road when it attempted to pass a 2005 Ford F-150 in a no-passing zone near Felkins Road, FHP Lt. Tara Crescenzi said. The Wrangler entered the westbound land and then tried to reenter the eastbound lane due to oncoming traffic. The right rear of the Wrangler collided with the front left of the F-150 and the Wrangler overcorrected, traveled across both lanes, overturned several times and struck a wire fence. The driver

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Man Accused of Exposing Himself at Leesburg Park Sunday

LEESBURG, Fla.—A man accused of exposing himself at a Leesburg park and in front of a Lake County Fire Rescue firefighter is being held in the Lake County Jail on $3,000 bond. Leesburg Police Department responded to Rogers Park, 610 South 9th Street shortly after 7 p.m. Sunday on two separate reports of a man exposing himself and loitering around the restrooms; one caller provided a description of the man, later identified as Desmond Seymore Harris Jr., 47, of Leesburg. As one officer canvassed the area, a second officer reported there was a man in the women’s restroom and officers

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Suspect in Stolen Vehicle Flees, Rams LCSO Cruiser, Strikes Multiple Stop Sticks, Flees on Foot, Apprehended by K9 Murphy in Leesburg Sunday

LEESBURG, Fla.—A Mount Dora man is facing a slew of charges after ramming a stolen vehicle into a Lake County Sheriff’s Office cruiser, fleeing to Sumter County, striking multiple stop sticks and fleeing back into Lake County where he was finally apprehended Sunday afternoon. Henry Lee Gamble-Coleman, 26, was spotted around 5 p.m. in Leesburg by LCSO deputies in a vehicle stolen from Eustis, according to an arrest affidavit. Deputies attempted to pull Gamble-Coleman over near the intersection of South 14th Street and South Street and Gamble-Coleman “rapidly” accelerated and struck the passenger side of a K9 cruiser. He fled

Suspect in Stolen Vehicle Flees, Rams LCSO Cruiser, Strikes Multiple Stop Sticks, Flees on Foot, Apprehended by K9 Murphy in Leesburg Sunday Read More »

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