Orange Center families to vote on school’s charter conversion
Read full article: Orange Center families to vote on school’s charter conversionA big decision is coming for families at one Central Florida elementary school. Parents at Orange Center Elementary are being asked to vote on whether to keep the school as a traditional public school or convert it into a charter.
No election for Windermere as qualifying ends without opponents for new mayor, council member
Read full article: No election for Windermere as qualifying ends without opponents for new mayor, council memberWhen Windermere’s qualifying period closed Friday at noon, three candidates had qualified to run for the three open seats on the town council. With no challengers, Windermere will not hold an election on March 10.
Monster Jam event in Orlando features JCB’s Digatron, driver Tristan England
Read full article: Monster Jam event in Orlando features JCB’s Digatron, driver Tristan EnglandA fan appreciation event featuring JCB’s Digatron monster truck and driver Tristan England took place recently in Orlando, building excitement for the upcoming Monster Jam weekend.
Man arrested for taking upskirt photos at Orlando Premium Outlets, police say
Read full article: Man arrested for taking upskirt photos at Orlando Premium Outlets, police sayAccording to an arrest affidavit, police were alerted after a store manager observed a man using his cell phone to take pictures up a shopper’s skirt without her knowledge.
Legends Academy closure leaves 200 students displaced
Read full article: Legends Academy closure leaves 200 students displacedMore than dozens of students are now being forced to find new classrooms, and teachers are packing up with no severance and few answers this week after their Central Florida charter school, Legends Academy, shut its doors for good.
Family says misunderstanding at Universal’s Epic Universe led to removal from park, shoplifting accusation
Read full article: Family says misunderstanding at Universal’s Epic Universe led to removal from park, shoplifting accusationA Florida family says a visit to Universal Orlando’s Epic Universe to celebrate their autistic daughter’s birthday ended with them being escorted out of the park and accused of shoplifting, a situation they describe as a misunderstanding tied to their child’s disability.
Winter Garden to vote on e-bike restrictions for safety on popular trail
Read full article: Winter Garden to vote on e-bike restrictions for safety on popular trailTonight, the Winter Garden city commission is set to vote on an ordinance that would restrict e-bike use on the West Orange Trail, a popular spot for walking, jogging, and biking.
Walt Disney World offers Florida resident discounts with new ticket options
Read full article: Walt Disney World offers Florida resident discounts with new ticket optionsResidents can choose between two special ticket deals: the Florida Resident Discover Disney Ticket, which comes in two options, and the Florida Resident.
Trial delayed as Orlando Halloween shooting suspect to get 2nd evaluation, can explore insanity defense
Read full article: Trial delayed as Orlando Halloween shooting suspect to get 2nd evaluation, can explore insanity defenseJury selection is set to begin in the trial of Jaylen Edgar, accused of murder in a mass shooting during Halloween 2024 celebrations in downtown Orlando.
This is the deadliest area for car crashes in Florida, new data shows
Read full article: This is the deadliest area for car crashes in Florida, new data showsIt’s already been a week into the new year, and state officials have revealed which parts of Florida were most affected by fatal car crashes in 2025.
📷Discover Florida’s tricolored heron, the elusive bird you’ve seen but never noticed
Read full article: 📷Discover Florida’s tricolored heron, the elusive bird you’ve seen but never noticedDiscover how to spot and photograph Florida’s tricolored heron, an active hunter in wetlands. Learn identification tips, hunting behavior, and photography challenges of this fascinating bird living all around Florida.
‘Try to minimize the spread:’ Nearly 30% of Lake Eola swans dead from bird flu
Read full article: ‘Try to minimize the spread:’ Nearly 30% of Lake Eola swans dead from bird fluMore swans have died at Lake Eola, and the city of Orlando has confirmed avian flu is responsible, raising growing concerns among residents who consider the birds a symbol of downtown.
Rolling Loud hip-hop festival heading to Orlando for only 2026 US Stop
Read full article: Rolling Loud hip-hop festival heading to Orlando for only 2026 US StopRolling Loud, which bills itself as the “world’s largest hip-hop festival,” is heading to Orlando this year for its only stop in the U.S., organizers announced on the event’s website.
‘Potential use’ plans unveiled for 7 Orange County schools up for closure
Read full article: ‘Potential use’ plans unveiled for 7 Orange County schools up for closureBonneville, Chickasaw, Eccleston, McCoy, Meadow Woods, and Orlo Vista elementary schools, and Union Park Middle School in Orange County could all potentially close. An email obtained by News 6 explains what could happen to the schools after.
18-year-old accused of shooting teen on New Year’s Day in Orange County
Read full article: 18-year-old accused of shooting teen on New Year’s Day in Orange CountyAn 18-year-old man is accused of shooting a 17-year-old boy on New Year’s Day after the victim refused to get into his car, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.
Man arrested after bicyclist dragged in Orange County hit-and-run crash, FHP says
Read full article: Man arrested after bicyclist dragged in Orange County hit-and-run crash, FHP saysA man is accused of trying to run after striking a bicyclist with a box truck in Orange County, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Judge denies Orlando Halloween shooting suspect’s effort to ditch attorney
Read full article: Judge denies Orlando Halloween shooting suspect’s effort to ditch attorneyAn Orange County judge Wednesday denied a double-murder defendant’s request to remove his court-appointed attorney as representation, clearing the way for jury selection to begin Thursday.
Apopka to decide on Main Street funding amid controversy
Read full article: Apopka to decide on Main Street funding amid controversyApopka commissioners are deciding if the city should move forward with a non-profit’s funding agreement after its contract was suspended in response to a controversy involving a downtown mural.
Apopka Mayor Nelson sues to kick opponent Christine Moore off March election ballot
Read full article: Apopka Mayor Nelson sues to kick opponent Christine Moore off March election ballotApopka Mayor Bryan Nelson, who is running for reelection, is suing an opponent, Orange County Commissioner Christine Moore, to get her taken off the ballot, accusing her of violating the city's residency requirements.
Coach remembers life of 16-year-old football player shot, killed days after Christmas
Read full article: Coach remembers life of 16-year-old football player shot, killed days after ChristmasAround Christmas time, three teenagers in Orange County lost their lives to gun violence in separate incidents. Last week, loved ones spoke out about the death of a 13-year-old victim.
The Boathouse at Disney Springs under fire after deadly choking incident
Read full article: The Boathouse at Disney Springs under fire after deadly choking incidentA Disney Springs restaurant is being sued after a choking customer died earlier this year, according to court records obtained by News 6.
Orlando woman accused of beating other driver in road rage incident near Mall at Millenia
Read full article: Orlando woman accused of beating other driver in road rage incident near Mall at MilleniaPolice in Orlando arrested a woman who got into a road rage incident with another driver, which allegedly ended with the woman beating the victim in the road.
Counselors at Orange County middle school after 13-year-old girl shot, killed on Christmas
Read full article: Counselors at Orange County middle school after 13-year-old girl shot, killed on ChristmasSome Orange County students are heading back to school with a heavy heart after a 13-year-old was shot and killed.
‘I just want my country to be free:’ Venezuelans in Central Florida see hope in Maduro’s capture
Read full article: ‘I just want my country to be free:’ Venezuelans in Central Florida see hope in Maduro’s captureWhile ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro remained defiant as he entered a “not guilty” plea in federal court Monday, Venezuelans in Central Florida were pondering what the future may hold for their native country.
Orlando officials confirm avian flu responsible for 19 swan deaths at Lake Eola Park
Read full article: Orlando officials confirm avian flu responsible for 19 swan deaths at Lake Eola ParkOrlando officials said on Monday that “the deaths of several different birds” at Lake Eola Park were found to be positive for Avian flu after two more swans were found dead at Lake Eola on Sunday.
Man arrested for hit-and-run crash injuring 1-month-old baby near Disney World, troopers say
Read full article: Man arrested for hit-and-run crash injuring 1-month-old baby near Disney World, troopers sayDuring the incident, the Florida Highway Patrol said someone from the suspected vehicle threw a cup of liquid at the victims.
Maitland police chief reunites with boy he saved after nearly drowning 35 years ago
Read full article: Maitland police chief reunites with boy he saved after nearly drowning 35 years agoA life-saving moment turned into the friendship of a lifetime for the Kidd family and Maitland Police Chief David Manuel. On Monday, their 20-year separation ended with an emotional hug, as the entire Kidd family visited Maitland PD together.
Spit takes and stunts: Orlando actor in ‘Stranger Things’ shares candid stories from time filming
Read full article: Spit takes and stunts: Orlando actor in ‘Stranger Things’ shares candid stories from time filmingStranger Things actor Clayton Royal Johnson, originally from Orlando, reflected on his journey from working at Texas Roadhouse to training with professional basketball coaches for his role as Andy.
Eatonville’s historic Hungerford property sale faces critical vote
Read full article: Eatonville’s historic Hungerford property sale faces critical voteThe Orange County School Board will review a draft contract for the sale of the 117-acre site to Dr. Phillips Charities, marking another crucial step in a process that has divided town leadership since its initial approval in September.
Man behind fatal 150 mph crash on SR-408 in Orange County sentenced to 9 years in prison
Read full article: Man behind fatal 150 mph crash on SR-408 in Orange County sentenced to 9 years in prisonOn Monday, a judge sentenced Omaykan Guler to 112 months in prison. He was given 197 days of jail time credit, which will be applied to his sentence. His driver’s license was also revoked for life.
Man accused of violating probation in Orlando jogger attack case expected in court
Read full article: Man accused of violating probation in Orlando jogger attack case expected in courtA man who attacked a jogger near College Park in Orlando is expected to appear in court after he was accused of violating probation.
‘Worth all the sacrifices:’ Hope, uncertainty fill Orlando church after capture of Maduro
Read full article: ‘Worth all the sacrifices:’ Hope, uncertainty fill Orlando church after capture of MaduroEmotions ran high Sunday in Central Florida as the Venezuelan community reacted to a major turning point back home.
Man accused of stealing mail while claiming to be a mailman, Orlando police say
Read full article: Man accused of stealing mail while claiming to be a mailman, Orlando police sayBodycam video released by Orlando police shows the arrest of a man accused of stealing mail while claiming to be a mailman, the agency said on social media.
Floridians split as some protest, others celebrate Maduro’s capture
Read full article: Floridians split as some protest, others celebrate Maduro’s captureDozens of demonstrators carried signs reading “Hands off Venezuela” and “No blood for oil,” as they chanted and marched up and down Colonial Drive near Bumby Avenue in Orlando Saturday afternoon.
‘Really glad we got here early:’ Taking a peek at peak holiday travel in Orlando
Read full article: ‘Really glad we got here early:’ Taking a peek at peak holiday travel in OrlandoHoliday travel is peaking at Orlando International Airport as thousands of passengers head home from New Year’s vacations or begin trips to kick off 2026.
Prepared food, candy bars and more could soon be banned for SNAP recipients
Read full article: Prepared food, candy bars and more could soon be banned for SNAP recipientsStarting in April, Florida plans to ban soda, candy, and other items deemed sugary junk food from SNAP benefits—joining more than a dozen other states pushing for similar restrictions.
‘She’s ready:’ Man arrested after pipe-bomb comments at Orlando International Airport, police say
Read full article: ‘She’s ready:’ Man arrested after pipe-bomb comments at Orlando International Airport, police sayA TSA agent reported that Marcos Alfredo Vidal said, “The stage was set, and she’s ready,” followed by a clearer statement referencing a “pipe bomb, vending machine," according to an arrest affidavit.
How would you feel about a homeless shelter where you live? Central Florida leaders respond
Read full article: How would you feel about a homeless shelter where you live? Central Florida leaders respondAs part of our year-long look at homelessness in Central Florida last year, we asked you all a question: What would be needed for you to support a homeless housing project, like a shelter, in your community? Here's how some of the biggest advocates in our community responded to you.
Orlando actor featured in 4th and 5th ‘Stranger Things’ season
Read full article: Orlando actor featured in 4th and 5th ‘Stranger Things’ seasonClayton Royal Johnson, an actor from Central Florida, appears as Andy in the fourth and fifth seasons of Netflix's 'Stranger Things,' set in 1980s Hawkins, Indiana. Andy, a basketball player and friend of Jason, is introduced in season 4. In the 5th season, Andy has a notable confrontation with main character, Dustin, in the first episode.
Apopka police search for missing, endangered man last seen in area of Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive
Read full article: Apopka police search for missing, endangered man last seen in area of Lake Apopka Wildlife DriveCarlos Zigrovic drove to Lake Apopka Wildlife Drive around 2 p.m. and when he arrived, he walked around the area and left his car in the parking lot.
Orlando prepares to ring in 2026 with family-friendly celebrations and downtown festivities
Read full article: Orlando prepares to ring in 2026 with family-friendly celebrations and downtown festivitiesWith just hours remaining before the arrival of 2026, Orlando is preparing for a night of celebrations across the city, with events expected to bring in large crowds.
Cheez-It Bowl draws thousands as concerns linger over downtown Orlando nightlife
Read full article: Cheez-It Bowl draws thousands as concerns linger over downtown Orlando nightlifeOrlando’s final college bowl game of 2025 took place on New Year’s Eve at Camping World Stadium, drawing thousands of fans for the Cheez-It Bowl — and for many, the decision to spend the day at the stadium instead of downtown Orlando was an easy one.
Eatonville leaders clash over sale of historic Hungerford property
Read full article: Eatonville leaders clash over sale of historic Hungerford propertyThe sale of Eatonville’s historic Hungerford property is once again drawing controversy, as town council members confronted Mayor Angie Gardner during a special meeting Tuesday night over a deal approved they said without their input.
‘Not as high as we thought:’ Officials probe cause of 11 bird deaths at Orlando’s Lake Eola
Read full article: ‘Not as high as we thought:’ Officials probe cause of 11 bird deaths at Orlando’s Lake EolaCity officials confirmed Wednesday that 11 birds, including nine swans, an anhinga and an ibis, have died at Lake Eola, though the cause of death remains unknown.
Holiday travel causes some delays at Orlando International Airport, but passengers stay patient
Read full article: Holiday travel causes some delays at Orlando International Airport, but passengers stay patientDespite the disruptions, many passengers remained in good spirits, saying they expected the crowds and planned accordingly.
‘Christmas will never be the same:’ 3 teens killed in separate Orange County shootings leave grieving families
Read full article: ‘Christmas will never be the same:’ 3 teens killed in separate Orange County shootings leave grieving familiesFor several families in Orange County, the Christmas holiday was marked not by celebration, but by devastating loss.
Thornton Park hosts New Year’s Eve Orange Ball Drop for 2nd year
Read full article: Thornton Park hosts New Year’s Eve Orange Ball Drop for 2nd yearFor years, Orlando’s New Year’s Eve celebration was centered in the heart of downtown, drawing thousands into the bar district for the Orange Ball Drop. Now, the orange ball is staged in Thornton Park, where it will drop for the second year in a row — roughly a mile from where the celebration was once held.
What can Orlando do to bring more affordable housing? The city wants your ideas
Read full article: What can Orlando do to bring more affordable housing? The city wants your ideasThe city of Orlando wants to know what types of housing help you think are urgently needed in the city. You can take a survey to give your input.
Orlando Fringe unveils lineup for 10th anniversary ‘Winter Mini-Fest’
Read full article: Orlando Fringe unveils lineup for 10th anniversary ‘Winter Mini-Fest’Orlando Fringe has announced the full schedule for its 10th anniversary Winter Mini-Fest, a condensed version of its annual May festival, set for Jan. 7–11, 2026, inside Orlando Shakes.
Cold weather shelters opening in Central Florida as ‘feels-like’ temps reach freezing mark
Read full article: Cold weather shelters opening in Central Florida as ‘feels-like’ temps reach freezing markCentral Florida residents will need to bundle up this week as a strong cold front causes temperatures to drop like a bejeweled ball on New Year’s Eve. We've put together a list of locations where people can escape the cold this week. Keep checking back for updates.
3 teens shot and killed in Orange County in less than a week, sparking concerns
Read full article: 3 teens shot and killed in Orange County in less than a week, sparking concernsA string of deadly shootings involving teenagers in Orange County has left residents shaken and searching for answers after three teens were shot and killed in less than a week.
Orange County deputy shoots man who opened fire, struck unmarked vehicle, sheriff says
Read full article: Orange County deputy shoots man who opened fire, struck unmarked vehicle, sheriff saysAn Orange County deputy shot a man who had just opened fire on them at an apartment complex, according to the sheriff’s office.
Winter Park’s Kwanzaa celebration is about heritage, community
Read full article: Winter Park’s Kwanzaa celebration is about heritage, communityDozens poured into the Winter Park Community Center to celebrate Kwanzaa. It’s where organizers and eventgoers say the seven-day celebration is all about honoring African heritage and coming together as a community.
Holiday travel delays impact hundreds of flights at Orlando International Airport
Read full article: Holiday travel delays impact hundreds of flights at Orlando International AirportTravelers returning home after Christmas packed Orlando International Airport on Thursday, with many facing flight delays and cancellations amid record holiday travel.
Teen arrested after young girl shot to death in Orange County on Christmas Day
Read full article: Teen arrested after young girl shot to death in Orange County on Christmas DayA 13-year-old girl was fatally shot in Orange County on Thursday afternoon, leading to the arrest of a teen suspect, according to the sheriff’s office.
‘Labor of love:’ Indoor Christmas village in Winter Park gives families a unique experience
Read full article: ‘Labor of love:’ Indoor Christmas village in Winter Park gives families a unique experienceOne Winter Park family is hoping their unique holiday display called the Lyman Christmas Village, can help calm some of that chaos with a relaxing experience that offers something for everyone.
‘In shock and panicked:’23-year-old man faces charges after failing to stop in fatal Maitland hit-and-run
Read full article: ‘In shock and panicked:’23-year-old man faces charges after failing to stop in fatal Maitland hit-and-runA 23-year-old man who is facing charges in connection with a fatal hit-and-run, told Maitland police he was “in shock and panicked,” when asked why he did not remain on scene after the incident, according to an affidavit for the defendant’s arrest warrant.
Legionnaires’ disease signs posted inside federal courthouse as Orange County hits 100 confirmed cases
Read full article: Legionnaires’ disease signs posted inside federal courthouse as Orange County hits 100 confirmed casesOrange County now leads the state of Florida in reported cases of Legionnaires’ disease, as questions grow about whether residents and workers may have been exposed at more than one location.
8 injured in Orange County crash involving semi, LYNX bus, officials say
Read full article: 8 injured in Orange County crash involving semi, LYNX bus, officials sayEight people were sent to the hospital after a crash involving a semi and a LYNX bus on Monday evening, according to Orange County Fire Rescue.
Demings’ letter demands repayment for housing immigration detainees in Orange County Jail
Read full article: Demings’ letter demands repayment for housing immigration detainees in Orange County JailOrange County is formally demanding the federal government reimburse hundreds of thousands of dollars for housing ICE immigration detainees in the county jail.
Orange County is changing garbage pickup days. Find out if you’re affected
Read full article: Orange County is changing garbage pickup days. Find out if you’re affectedOrange County Utilities is changing curbside collection days for its customers starting Dec. 29, and it will affect garbage, recycling, yard waste, and large item pickup. The county has a site to help residents figure out their new collection days.
ROACHES APLENTY: Even more Central Florida restaurants closed last week
Read full article: ROACHES APLENTY: Even more Central Florida restaurants closed last weekIn the week before Christmas, nearly a dozen restaurants across Central Florida were forced to shut their doors, according to state records.