MARION COUNTY

A 35-year-old man stole a car and fled from officers, prompting a car chase in Ocala Thursday morning, according to the Ocala Police Department.

Florida will hold its 2022 primary election on Tuesday, Aug. 23.

A man accused of molesting a boy was arrested Monday in Marion County and deputies believe there may be more victims, according to the Sheriff's Office.

It’s known that alligators might eat other gators, but you might not really comprehend it until you see it.

A dog and a cat died, and four other cats were injured, in an Ocala house fire Monday morning, crews said.

Federal prosecutors are asking a judge to allow text messages be used in the case against a Marion County man charged in connection with the Capitol riot.

Police and firefighters responded to a scene Wednesday in southwest Ocala where officers said a naked, bruised and bloodied toddler had been found alone in a roadway.

From Marion County to Maitland, school resource officers and deputies across Central Florida are gearing up for back to school.

Video: Marion County deputies train new gun-sniffing dog to help with school security Marion County has a new crime fighter on the force, who can sniff out crime, literally. (WFTV)MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Marion County has a new crime fighter on the force, who can sniff out crime, literally. WATCH: WFTV is fanned out across Central Florida as students return to the classroom WednesdayAlbi has joined the ranks of the school resource division. Photos: Marion County deputies train new gun-sniffing dog to help with school securityExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 10 Marion County deputies train new gun-sniffing dog to help with school securityThe dog is trained to detect firearms, ammunition and ammunition casings that have been fired. WATCH: Traffic experts steer drivers toward safety as school year beginsDonors gave $14,000 to help forward Albi’s training.

Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods invited News 6 to meet the newest member of the SRO team. Covered in hair, only two years old, a four-legged pup named Albi is MCSO’s first firearms detection K9.

Video: Marion County man accused of pointing laser beam at helicopter A Marion County man is in custody, accused of shining a green laser beam at a helicopter. (James Tutten, WFTV.com/WFTV)OCALA, Fla. — A Marion County man is in custody, accused of shining a green laser beam at a helicopter. WATCH: 3 dead after hostage situation at Narcotics Anonymous meeting in Volusia County, police sayOcala police said 37-year-old Antonio Marente admitted to pointing the beam outside his home. He told the police that he does it every night. WATCH: Trump says FBI conducting search of Mar-a-Lago estateIt is considered a felony for anyone to knowingly shine or point a laser at a car, boat or aircraft.

A man accused of robbing a Wells Fargo bank Monday morning was arrested during a foot chase, according to the Belleview Police Department.

One person was shot and killed early Saturday in Marion County, according to the sheriff’s office.

An 11-year-old girl was reported missing and endangered after she was last seen in Ocklawaha Thursday, according to the Marion County Sheriff's Office.

Health officials in Marion County are hosting a free vaccination event for students Saturday ahead of the upcoming school year.

The Florida Department of Transportation will, for the moment, no longer pursue a proposed extension of the Florida Turnpike.

Parents are experiencing sticker shock as they head to stores to complete their back-to-school shopping.

VIDEO: Fort Worth man arrested in Ocala on dozens of sex trafficking charges A Forth Worth man is in the Marion County jail facing 30 counts of human sex trafficking after a woman claimed she was held captive for as many as eight years. (WFTV)OCALA, Fla. — A Forth Worth man is in the Marion County jail facing 30 counts of human sex trafficking after a woman claimed she was held captive for as many as eight years. READ: Skeletal remains found behind Ocala warehouseThe victim told police she met 41-year-old Alvin Harris in Texas several years ago, and thought he was going to help pher. Donna Guinn, Victim Advocate Supervisor for the Ocala Police Department, says responding officers noticed signs of possible trafficking. He’s now facing 30 counts of human sex trafficking in addition to individual counts of sexual battery and domestic assault.

Rain, rain on the way.

A 30-year-old motorcyclist was seriously injured after colliding with a front-end loader at a construction zone in Marion County on Monday afternoon, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

The board of county commissioners in Marion County is looking to help boost the area's tourism industry with a new logo.

A man accused of forcing a woman into sex work for years is now locked up in Marion County, according to Ocala police.

Rain, rain back a-gain.

Residents and officials in the Northwest have been trying to adjust to the likely reality of longer, hotter heat waves following last summer's deadly "heat dome" weather phenomenon that prompted record temperatures and deaths.

As hurricane season hits its peak, Florida’s top emergency manager is warning of the potential for major electrical problems after a storm hits.

A car went up in flames during a two-vehicle crash in Marion County Thursday, according to the Marion County Sheriff's Office.

Counties are ranked by longest average commute time according to 2020 5-year estimates.

A group of athletes and community leaders are coming together to curve violence and foster community through an adult basketball league: Belleview International Ballers.

A group of athletes and community leaders are coming together to curve violence and foster community through an adult basketball league: Belleview International Ballers.

Video: Waterspout spotted over Lake Weir in Marion County A Channel 9 viewer shared video of a waterspout over Lake Weir in Marion County. (WFTV)MARION COUNTY, Fla. — A Channel 9 viewer shared video of a waterspout over Lake Weir in Marion County. READ: Several people hurt, including child, after car crashes into ocean at Daytona Beach, lifeguards sayThe waterspout was spotted over the lake around 7:40 p.m. on Friday. READ: Florida woman holding pitchfork, whip, arrested outside Publix during rainstormOfficials said there were no reports of any damage. WATCH: Orange County first responders train during simulated mass casualty eventClick here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

A woman died in house fire in Ocala Saturday morning, according to Marion County Fire Rescue.

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — A 46-year-old woman died in an Ocala structure fire Saturday, Marion County first responders said. Marion County Fire Rescue said the fire on Cedar Trace Lane was under control around 8 a.m., 30 minutes after they responded to reports of a structure fire. Read: Thousands of Marion County students to receive free backpacks ahead of new school yearMultiple 911 callers said smoke and flames were coming from the house. Read: Apopka funeral procession honors fallen firefighter Austin DuranRolling Greens Rescue #528 was the first to arrive at the scene for immediate rescue and additional rescue engines arrived to help fight the fire. In the initial search of the structure, the woman was found inside the home.

Viewer-submitted video shows a waterspout forming in Marion County Friday evening.

Marion County commissioners enacted a new ordinance in hopes of reducing litter in the area.

A missing teenager is believed to be in Marion County after he ran away from a foster home in Hernando County, deputies said.

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Homicide investigators with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office need help finding a killer. READ: Ex-prison guard accused of running meth ring in DeLandResponding deputies later found the man had died of a gunshot wound and launched a homicide investigation. The victim was identified by the sheriff’s office Tuesday as 23-year-old Gainesville resident Dequandre Alexander. READ: Central Florida man with Nazi memorabilia arrested after explosives found in homeNow, investigators with MCSO’s Major Crimes Unit are asking for help figuring out what led to Alexander’s death. READ: Operation Flashpoint: FBI, Homeland Security ask local businesses to help spot suspicious activityTips can also be submitted anonymously through CrimeStoppers of Marion County at (352) 368-7867, or STOP.

Detectives are investigating the death of a man whose body was found Monday morning along a road in Reddick, according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies are conducting a death investigation in Reddick after a man’s body was found along the road Monday morning, according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.

Video: Man leads deputies on chase in stolen energy company utility truck A thief who took off in a stolen vehicle wasn’t hard to spot. (James Tutten, WFTV.com/WFTV)MARION COUNTY, Fla. — A thief who took off in a stolen vehicle wasn’t hard to spot. READ: Trailer filled with 40K pounds of potato chips catches fire in OcalaThat’s because Marion County deputies said Wade Sapp stole a large energy truck. They said Sapp took it from a Kangaroo gas station on Friday in Mascotte. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 15 Man leads deputies on chase in stolen energy company utility truckYou can hear deputies yelling commands in the video.

VIDEO: Pedestrian hit and killed crossing intersection in Marion County, troopers say VIDEO: Pedestrian hit and killed crossing intersection in Marion County, troopers say (WFTV)MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Florida Highway Patrol is investigating after a pedestrian was hit and killed in Marion County. The deadly crash happened near the intersection of State Road 200 and Southwest 60th Street around 12:10 a.m. on Sunday. 200 when a woman was attempting to cross in a dark area at the intersection of SW 60th Street. Read: ‘Our hearts are broken’: Apopka mourns line-of-duty death of firefighter Austin DuranMarion County Fire Rescue pronounced the 60-year-old Ocala woman dead at the scene. Read: Firefighters contain fire at Marion County Public Schools building, officials sayTroopers have not said if charges will be filed.

A 60-year-old man was struck and killed by a pickup truck in Marion County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Employees were not in the building and no one was injured in the incident.

Roads have been closed along Southwest 60th Avenue in Marion County due to inclement weather, according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.

A man was arrested Tuesday after deputies say he stabbed a person at a gas station, stole his keys, and tried to steal his car.

A master sergeant in the Marion County Sheriff’s Office was arrested after a domestic violence attack, according to a news release.

— You could say they got their goat: officers with an Indiana police department managed to wrangle a loose goat that was running through a yard, but catching the animal was a struggle. >> Read more trending newsVideo shared by the Cumberland Police Department on its Facebook page shows the wild pursuit. OFFICERS DETAIN GOAT FOR QUESTIONING! If you know where the goat belongs, please contact us or Marion County Animal Care & Control. Marion County Animal Control is caring for the goat while officers work to track down its owner.

VIDEO: Former student speaks out on ‘cult-like group’ operating in Leesburg High School Former student speaks out on ‘cult-like group’ operating in Leesburg High SchoolLEESBURG, Fla. — A former student at Leesburg High School is speaking out about the cult-like group she said formed at a local high school that involved into a secret and, at times, inappropriate society. From that, she joined a small Bible study group that involved longtime Leesburg High School band director Gabriel Fielder, who was the leader who “eventually started calling himself governor,” Hammond said. The group also included Leonardo “Lenny” Finelli, a Leesburg High School counselor who helped with the band. READ: State records shed light on ‘cult-like’ secret society operating at Leesburg High SchoolHammond said some started referring to the group as a cult shortly after it started. The district investigation shows that, at some point, members of the group started using apps so they could track each other’s movements.

A Purple Alert has been issued for a missing Ocala man Monday by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.

A shooting and subsequent crash at an Ocala apartment complex shut down the southbound lanes on SW 27th Avenue Monday evening, police said.

Authorities said the fire occurred in the 3100 block of Northeast 42nd Road and was spreading toward the north and south.

A 63-year-old Ocala woman was reported missing and endangered Friday evening, according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.

This secretary and bus driver have combined 75-years of service at Marion County Public Schools.

It was crunch time for Ocala Fire Rescue Thursday when they put out a fire in a trailer carrying about 40,000 pounds of potato chips.

Scammers are texting links advertising $10 off of Marion County Sheriff’s Office t-shirts, according to deputies.

Marion County deputies said they arrested a man Tuesday who attempted to burglarize an Ocala home and tried to enter multiple vehicles at a nearby intersection.

Voter information cards are not needed in order to vote in elections; they simply provide voters with information on assigned precincts.

The City of Ocala’s Aquatic Fun Centers will implement a reduction in hours of operation beginning Tuesday.

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Thousands of students in Marion County are set to receive free backpacks filled with supplies just in time for school to start this fall. The first-ever community giveback is a joint effort between AdventHealth Ocala, the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County and Marion County Public Schools. It is being supported by Thaddeus Bullard, better known as WWE global ambassador Titus O’Neil, and his Bullard Family Foundation. VIDEO: Orange County schools to offer free meals to students over summer break Orange County Public Schools is making sure that no kids go hungry over summer break. (Christy Turner, WFTV.com/WFTV)Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

Troopers said a 29-year-old man was struck by vehicle in the outside westbound lane of State Road 40 near Southwest 57th Avenue.

OCALA, Fla. — If you’ve taken a cool photo on your phone, now is your chance to shine. The Appleton Museum of Art and the College of Central Florida are hosting a photography contest for people to submit up to two photos. Artists of all ages can participate in the eighth annual Mobile Photography Contest and Exhibition with a creative photo taken on a mobile device or tablet. Read: Orlando Museum of Art parts ways with CEO following raid of Basquiat exhibitThere is no fee to enter the contest and all levels of experience are welcome. For more information on how to enter the contest, click here.

An 18-year-old man from Ocala was killed Friday night in a single-vehicle crash with a tree between Ocala and Belleview, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Fire crews rushed to save a worker whose hand was trapped in a conveyor belt atop a train car Friday afternoon, according to Ocala Fire Rescue.

Marion County Animal Services seized 31 dogs from a Marion County groomer and breeder, and investigators are now asking a court to stop her from owning any more animals.

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Summer break is in full swing, but you might see a couple of school buses in your area. Marion County Schools will be hosting its bus blitz to help recruit more bus drivers. Starting pay for a school bus driver is $16.65 an hour. More than 300 positions available at Lake County job fairEwers Center parking lot at the College of Central Florida in Ocala. Parking lot at the former Kmart on East State Road 40/Southeast 36 Avenue in Ocala.

Gunman arrested at Marion County bar after deadly shooting in Leesburg, deputies sayLEESBURG, Fla. — Lake County deputies arrested a gunman after he killed a man Wednesday afternoon. Photos: Gunman arrested at Marion County bar after deadly shooting in Leesburg, deputies sayExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 Gunman arrested at Marion County bar after deadly shooting in Leesburg, deputies sayDeputies said the victim was driving with another person on Whitney Road when he recognized Carlton driving, and they both stopped. WATCH: Man befriended victim, shared soda and cigarettes, before deadly shooting outside IHOP, deputies sayAfter a short conversation, Carlton shot the victim in the head and fled the scene, deputies said. WATCH: Man slashed wife’s throat, played her favorite music as she died, Altamonte Springs police sayDeputies said Carlton was later tracked to a bar in Marion County, where he was arrested without incident. Carlton was booked into the Marion County Jail on a murder charge.

Deputies search for man who went missing while swimming with children in Marion CountyMARION COUNTY, Fla. — Marion County deputies are searching for a man who went missing while swimming in Lake Weir. Deputies said three children and a man were on the boat in the middle of the lake, when two of the children went swimming with the adult. The boat later drifted away from the swimmers and one of the children swam to the boat to pick up the other child and the man who was still in the water, deputies said. READ: Parade of planets: Here’s when to see 5 planets line up in the skyOfficials said that when the child returned to the swimming area with the boat, the man was gone. Deputies are treating this as a possible drowning and search teams are looking for the man.

Video: Deputies search for missing Marion County womanMARION COUNTY, Fla. — Marion County deputies are searching for a woman who was last seen on Saturday. Deputies said Diane Adinolfi was last seen around 10 a.m. before leaving her home on Southeast 112th Street Road in Belleview. Deputies said she is believed to be on foot. Family searches for missing Marion County man last seen a week agoDiane Adinolfi (Marion County Sheriff's Office)They said she is showing signs of early-onset dementia and has disappeared before. READ: Women say they were shot at while driving on I-4 in Volusia CountySee a map of the area below.

Family searches for missing Marion County manMARION COUNTY, Fla. — A Marion County family is hoping you can help bring their missing loved one home. Deputies said Prince Douglass was last seen walking from his home in Fort McCoy to a nearby convenience store on June 11. Prince Douglass (Marion County Sheriff's Office)READ: ‘He never barked. He never saw it.’ Alligator kills dog in north FloridaOn Friday, his family tried to call him but he didn’t pick up the phone. Anyone with information about Douglass’ whereabouts is asked to call 911.

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Marion County firefighters responded Thursday morning after a mobile home caught fire. Officials said when crews arrived the home was engulfed in flames and it was unclear if anyone was inside. Crews from the Weirsdale fire station arrived on scene within five minutes and called in additional firefighters to help. Photos: Marion County crews battle house fire Thursday morningExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 7 Marion County crews battle house fire Thursday morningAdditional crews from South Marion Station, The Villages Station, Belleview Station and Spruce Creek Station arrived soon after. Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Marion County is notifying residents near Lake Weir of a blue-green algae bloom. Read: The super moon is back; here’s when to look upOfficials learned of the bloom after water samples showed evidence of the possible contamination June 7. -Avoid getting water in your eyes, nose or mouth-Keep pets and livestock away from the waters where there is a bloom. READ: OIA releases statement after CDC lifts COVID-19 test requirement for international travelBlue-green algae is a common occurrence in freshwater environments throughout Florida and can appear year-round. READ: How to cool down when the temperatures climbMore information about Florida’s water quality status and public health notifications can be found here.

Marion County deputies search for missing elderly man with medical conditionsMARION COUNTY, Fla. — Deputies in Marion County are looking for help to find a missing elderly man who may be in the early stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s. WATCH: Patient breaks window of hospital room at ORMC, jumps to his deathDeputies said his car was last seen Wednesday night in Sumter County. Police said Grosse also has medical conditions that require medications. READ: Police: Man injured in shootout along I-4 near OrlandoAnyone who knows Grosse’s whereabouts should call 911. Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — A new fleet of high-tech ambulances is helping to save lives in Marion County. On Monday, AdventHealth Ocala unveiled three mobile ICU transport ambulances, officially launching the hospital system’s fleet. These new ambulances will bring the emergency room to the field to provide care throughout greater Marion County. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 7 AdventHealth Ocala Ambulance FleetThe mobile critical care units are equipped with state-of-the-art technology onboard, allowing crews to provide ICU-level care, including ventilation and lab capabilities while transporting patients between AdventHealth facilities. Read:The three units unveiled are the first of four to launch in Marion County.

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — A Lake Butler man charged with illegally killing Black Bears in the Ocala National Forest in 2018 was sentenced in Marion County. Read: Here are the bare necessities to work as a Florida ‘bear response contractor’According to FWC officials, Wood and his co-defendants lured black bears with dog food, doughnuts, pastries and peanut butter in several areas throughout Baker, Flagler, Marion and Union counties. Investigators said the defendants then used packs of dogs to chase and maul the black bears. Read: FWC offers Spring BearWise tips to reduce conflicts with bearsOfficials said Wood and the others then recorded several of the attacks and posted the videos on Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat. ©2022 Cox Media Group

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — An Ocala man wanted for sexual assault was arrested Wednesday after leading deputies on a high-speed chase all while a young child sat in the car. According to his arrest report, 26-year-old Henry Antwan Boger refused to stop when deputies tried to pull him over Wednesday afternoon in the Marion Oaks area. Deputies searched Boger’s car and found a loaded .45 caliber handgun on the back floorboard wrapped in a t-shirt. He was arrested for Fleeing and Eluding and Resisting Arrest, then given a ride to the Gold Star Hotel. Boger is being held in the Marion County jail on no bond.

At River Valley High School's graduation in Ohio, alumni speaker Jim McGuire told graduates to pursue relationships only between a man and a woman.

Video: Marion County man trapped after truck hauling logs rolls over, crushes his pickup A Marion County man is recovering after a logging truck rolled onto his pickup truck, trapping him inside. (WFTV)OCALA, Fla. — A Marion County man is recovering after a logging truck rolled onto his pickup truck, trapping him inside. WATCH: Man killed, 3 others seriously injured in DUI crash on I-75, troopers sayThe crash happened near the intersection of West Highway 326 and Northwest Highway 225. Marion County Fire Rescue said a truck hauling a load of logs fell onto the victim’s car just before 6 p.m. northwest of Ocala. Photos: Marion County man trapped after truck hauling logs rolls over, crushes his pickupExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 5 Marion County man trapped after truck hauling logs rolls over, crushes his pickupThe man was pulled from the car and taken to the hospital.

At River Valley's graduation, alumni speaker Jim McGuire told grads to pursue relationships only between a man and a woman, sparking public outcry.

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — The Marion County Sheriff’s Office arrested a 71-year-old children’s charity volunteer after it said he sexually battered a 12-year-old child. James Andrew Davis, 71, who volunteers in Belleview as the treasurer for Florida Kids Helping Kids, was arrested in Whitfield County, Georgia on Wednesday. On May 19, the Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office informed Marion County detectives that Davis was hiding at a home near Dalton, Georgia. Read: Volusia County standoff leads to discovery of counterfeit billsDeputies in Georgia later found Davis and arrested him on a Marion County warrant. Detectives ask anyone who may have information on Davis or other victims to call the Marion County Sheriff’s Office at (352) 732-9111.

Marion County bus crash 1 dead, several children transported after multi-car involving bus in Marion County (FHP Gainesville/FHP Gainesville)MARION COUNTY, Fla. — One person is dead and several children have been transported to the hospital after a crash involving multiple cars and a small bus Tuesday in Marion County, Florida Highway Patrol said. Marion County Traffic Alert FHP is currently investigating a multi car crash involving a fatality at US 441 and SE. Sunset Harbor road please avoid the area if possible traffic is heavy & slow through the area. Watch: FHP releases video of hit-and-run crash that injured Melbourne father and sonNo further information was immediately available. READ: Grandmother fatally shoots intruder in Orange County: Is the law on her side?

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — May is Stroke Awareness Month and the Marion County Department of Health wants residents to know the importance of knowing risk factors, symptoms and prevention tips for strokes. The risk of having a stroke increases as we get older, but a stroke can happen at any age. According to the most recent Florida Department of Health data, Marion County had the fourth-lowest death rate for strokes among Florida’s 67 counties. pic.twitter.com/HavwMODhkA — Department of Health in Marion County (@FLHealthMarion) May 13, 2022“While we are fortunate that our community has a relatively low death rate from stoke, other data shows that a stroke is an issue we must take seriously,” said Mark Lander, administrator of the Department of Health in Marion County. Read: Florida Earth Day student art contest winner’s announcedTo learn more about strokes and stroke prevention, please visit the American Stroke Association at www.stroke.org , or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov/stroke/ .

Families in the Ocala area will have a chance to pick up food items at no cost Saturday morning. MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Families in Marion County will have a chance to pick up food items at no cost Saturday morning. Farm Share, a nonprofit that aims to help food-insecure residents in Florida, will hold a food giveaway in Ocala. The May 21 event is scheduled to begin at 10 a.m. and will be held at:514 SW 27th Ave., Ocala, Fla. 34471Saturday’s giveaway is expected to provide food for about 250 households. READ: Inflation costing families hundreds per month, analyst saysSaturday’s food giveaway will be on a first-come, first-served basis and will operate until supplies run out.

Firefighter battle brush fire in Marion County (WFTV)MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Firefighters worked into the morning Tuesday to put out a large brush fire in Ocala. The fire broke out around 5:30 p.m. Monday along SE Maricamp Road, not far from Forest High School. More than two dozen firefighters with Marion County Fire Rescue were still working around midnight to contain the brush fire and protect nearby homes. READ: Coronavirus: 3rd round of free rapid COVID-19 tests available from US governmentExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 Marion County brush fire (Marion County Fire Rescue)Fire officials said they are investigating how the fire started. Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, click here to download the WFTV Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Marion County Parks and Recreation provides their residents with the space to get outside and stay active, which they say is imperative when striving to create a healthier and more vibrant community. Now, the Marion County Florida Department of Health wants to help them learn which health and wellness issues are most important to them to help create a stronger, healthier Marion County. Responses to the survey are anonymous and the information will be used to help community leaders create strategies to make all of Marion County healthier. “Our partnership with AdventHealth in conducting the Community Health Assessment is a force multiplier in working toward a healthier Marion County,” said Mark Lander, administrator of the Department of Health in Marion County. The assessment is like a GPS system guiding us on how to improve the health and wellness of all of Marion County.

The daughters of a Purdue University associate professor accused him of molesting them, according to a probable cause affidavit.

Police: Ocala man arrested after hit-and-run, pursuit in Marion County (WFTV)OCALA, Fla. — An Ocala man was arrested after police say he led them on a chase in Marion County. Garcia then sped away from officers and a short chase ensued before officers were forced to break it off. Read: Man convicted of killing wife who Googled ‘what to do if husband is upset you’re pregnant’Another officer later spotted the van and made another attempt to stop Garcia. Ernesto Garcia (WFTV)The chase ended when officers were able to deflate one of the van’s tires with stop sticks before the van was finally stopped by a Marion County sheriff’s deputy. Garcia was booked into the Marion County jail and charged with hit-and-run, fleeing with disregard for a person’s safety, and drug possession.

Florida teen killed after boys take turns shooting at each other while wearing body armorMARION COUNTY, Fla. — Two Marion County teens who are accused of shooting and killing their friend earlier this month were arrested again this week on charges related to a drive-by shooting. Ocala police said Joshua Vining, 17, and Colton Whitler, 17, were out on bond at the time of Wednesday night’s shooting, in which two other teens were also arrested. Police said April 3, Vining and Whitler were with a group of boys in Belleview taking turns shooting at each other while wearing a bulletproof vest. READ: Police: Teen killed after boys take turns shooting at each other wearing body armorVining was charged with manslaughter and Whitler was charged with lying to police about what happened that day. VIDEO: Teen killed after boys take turns shooting at each other wearing body armor One teenager is dead after police said two boys took turns shooting at each other while wearing body armor.

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Dozens of dogs in Central Florida need your help. Marion County Animal Services recently announced its shelter is packed with more than 130 dogs who need loving homes. READ: Here’s how to celebrate Earth Day 2022 in Central Florida“We want to provide the opportunity for Marion County citizens to come to our facility and add a best friend to their family,” Animal Services Director Jim Sweet said. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 25 Marion County Animal Services waives adoption fees (Marion County Animal Services)Interested residents are encouraged to visit the county’s Animal Services to find a pet that’s a good fit. Photos: Dogs looking for ‘furever’ homes in Marion County:The adoption shelter is located at 5701 SE 66th Street in Ocala.

Alyssa Marion County Animal Services is waiving adoption fees as it tries to get its dogs adopted as the shelter reaches capacity. (Marion County Animal Services)MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Looking to add a four-legged friend to your family? Marion County Animal Services is allowing you to do so for free as it tries to get its dogs adopted as the shelter reaches capacity. “We want to provide the opportunity for Marion County citizens to come to our facility and add a best friend to their family,” Animal Services Director Jim Sweet said in a statement. Photos: Meet the dogs available for adoption at Marion County Animal ServicesExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 17 Shaynna Marion County Animal Services is waiving adoption fees as it tries to get its dogs adopted as the shelter reaches capacity.

OCALA, Fla. — Nine Marion County students were arrested, and 13 suspended, after several fights at Fort King Middle School. WATCH: Police: Marion County teen killed after boys take turns shooting at each other wearing body armorThe Marion County school district said the fights broke out Wednesday. There were a lot of threats made on social media, and they boiled over at school. Photos: 9 students arrested, 13 suspended after several fights at Ocala middle schoolExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 9 9 students arrested, 13 suspended after several fights at Ocala middle schoolThere were extra Ocala police officers on campus Thursday, and they’ll be present next week too. WATCH: Investigators: Marion County man bought several guns, sold them to juvenilesThe school’s principal sent a message home to families, encouraging parents to talk about the importance of making positive choices.

OCALA, Fla. — Families in Marion County will have a chance to pick up food items at no cost Saturday morning. Farm Share, a nonprofit that aims to help food-insecure residents in Florida, will hold a food giveaway in Ocala for about 300 households. CF and Rep. Joe Harding will host a drive-through Farm Share food distribution event at the CF Ocala Campus on Saturday, April 16, at 10 a.m.Marion County residents may pick up food on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are in Florida, PLEASE follow these steps to find food near you from a FARM SHARE Food Pantry. You can click on this link to find a food pantry near you!https://t.co/7pm6hoFzzF...#Foodpantry #Food #Foodbank pic.twitter.com/NxA2AT9rJP — Farm Share, Inc. (@FarmShareFL) March 27, 2022Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

Missing Child alerts issued for teen and 11-month-old girl last seen Friday in Marion CountyMARION COUNTY, Fla. — A 16-year-old and an 11-month-old girl have been reported missing in Marion County. READ: Palm Coast woman shoots herself after holding family at gunpoint, deputies sayThe Florida Department of Law Enforcement issued missing child alerts for 16-year-old Secora Lee and 11-month-old Kehlani Hernandez. FDLE said both were last seen Friday on Robinson Road in Belleview. Lee was last seen wearing a navy hoodie and black sweatpants with white stripes. WATCH: Two teenage girls shot in drive-by shooting Saturday night, police sayThey may be traveling in a dark-colored sedan.

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — A Marion County man bought several guns and then sold them to young people who couldn’t buy them on their own, investigators say. One of the guns found was in possession of a man who is a person of interest in several shootings, including a homicide. READ: Osceola school employee arrested on child abuse chargesRecords show that, while at the store, Young signed a federal form indicating he was buying for himself. However, investigators said he was selling the guns to juveniles and others who couldn’t or didn’t want to buy firearms on their own. Ocala police have recovered five of the elven guns in possession of other people in situations related to criminal activity.

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — The Marion County Sheriff’s Office has busted nearly two dozen men seeking sex with kids during operation “April Fools.”Marion County deputies, with assistance from local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, conducted an undercover operation that resulted in the arrest of 22 men who thought they were meeting underage children. Law enforcement officers exchanged messages with 19 men who ultimately traveled to various locations in Marion County thinking they were meeting a child between the ages of 12 and 16 for sexual activity. According to deputies, during the exchange, these men engaged in sexually explicit conversations with people they thought were underage children. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 32 Operation "April Fools" (Marion County Sheriff's Office)When the men arrived at these locations, they were met by deputies who arrested them. “A child’s innocence is something we should all strive to protect,” said Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods.

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office has busted nearly two dozen men seeking sex with kids during operation “April Fools.”

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Three missing and endangered children from Marion County have been located. Update: According to deputies, Kelton, Connor and Titus LaDuke have been located in Dooly County, Georgia. Original Story:Marion County deputies are working to find three missing and endangered children on Saturday. Marion County - Missing Endangered KidsOn Friday, deputies responded to the 2100 block of NE 182nd Place in Citra to assist the Department of Children and Families (DCF) with a court order to take custody of the children. Marion County - Missing Endangered KidsRead: Weather Alert Day: Saturday starts off dry with high winds and hail possible this afternoonDeputies believe the children’s safety is at risk.

OCALA, Fla. — A Marion County man is a millionaire after “solving” CASHWORD and winning $1 million in the Florida Lottery scratch-off game. Santillan Rodriguez claimed the $1 million prize from the $5,000,000 CASHWORD scratch-off game after purchasing his winning ticket from the Quick King Food Store on Southwest Highway 200 in Ocala. The 48-year-old Ocala man chose to receive his winnings as a one-time, lump-sum payment of $780,000. The store that sold the winning ticket will receive a $2,000 bonus commission. Read: Pet Alliance is kicking off April with the purr-fect way to help our feline friendsThe new $20 game, $5,000,000 CASHWORD, launched in May 2020 and features eight top prizes of $5 million and 24 second-tier prizes of $1 million.

MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Marion County deputies are working to find three missing and endangered children on Saturday. Deputies said they are looking for Kelton, Connor and Titus LaDuke. Marion County - Missing Endangered KidsOn Friday, deputies responded to the 2100 block of NE 182nd Place in Citra to assist the Department of Children and Families (DCF) with a court order to take custody of the children. Investigators said they believe the children’s safety is at risk, because their parents, Jarod LaDuke and Ashley Winningham, are avoiding DCF’s efforts to assess the children’s well-being. Marion County - Missing Endangered KidsRead: Weather Alert Day: Saturday starts off dry with high winds and hail possible this afternoonDeputies believe the children’s safety is at risk.

Enrique Rodriguez Jr., 24, had roughly double the legal limit of alcohol in his blood when he allegedly plowed into a homeless encampment in Salem, Ore., early Sunday morning.

Authorities identified those killed as Jowand Beck, 24; Luke Kagey, 21; Joe Posada III, 54; and Rochelle Zamacona, 29. Rodriguez had 0.15% or more alcohol in his blood, according to a charging document filed with the Marion County Circuit Court. On March 3, the city of Salem cleared dozens of homeless people from a makeshift campsite located just a block away, at Marion Park. A new law that takes effect next year restricts how cities and counties — including Marion County, where Salem is located — can react to homeless camps. Kate Brown signed a bill passed by the Legislature to protect homeless campers in public spaces from being removed.