Florida leaders argue over holding special session to strengthen state abortion laws
Rep. Anthony Sabatini, a Republican who represents Lake County’s District 32 in the Florida House of Representatives, is calling for a special legislative session after the landmark Roe v. Wade abortion case was overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court Friday.
Cities with the most expensive homes in Orlando metro area
Purchasing a home is one of the most important investments there is. More than a place to live, homeownership is an asset with the potential to tremendously rise in value. Given the current state of the real estate market, housing affordability plays a determining role for buyers. As of June 17, 2022, the 30-year fixed mortgage rate sits at 6.25%. As a result of higher mortgage rates across the board, home prices have risen significantly. The typical home value in the United States increased over the last year by +20.9% to $334,141.
Orange County commissioners reach impasse on possible rent cap
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — If you’re looking for rent prices to stop skyrocketing in Orange County, be prepared to wait longer. Commissioners talked about a possible rent cap on Thursday. After more than three hours of discussion, some commissioners said they needed more time to look into the issue. READ: Developer sues after Apopka blocks affordable housing development, insists on ‘luxury’Mayor Jerry Demings wants the county’s attorney to analyze everything first. READ: Orange County residents fed up with rising rents, ask commissioners to declare ‘state of emergency’The next work session is scheduled for the end of next month.
wftv.comOrange County board holds special session on rental ordinances
The Orange County board came out of Thursday’s special session with a consensus on a notice ordinance and tenants bill of rights — but agreed more research and further discussion needs to be had about a rent stabilization ordinance.
Orange County commissioners stall on deciding if rent control will be on the ballot
Commissioners stall on deciding if rent control will be on the ballotORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Those waiting for rent relief will have to wait a bit longer. Orange County commissioners held a special meeting Thursday to talk about ways to control exploding rents. Despite dozens of people demanding cheaper rents, commissioners could not decide how they wanted to move forward with the language for putting rent control on the ballot. Read: New affordable housing community for seniors opens in Orange CountyOne of the factors that commissioners are considering is how much landlords will be allowed to raise their tenants’ rent. The next work session for rent control is scheduled for July 26, and a decision must be made by then if the topic is to be on the November ballot.
wftv.comOrange County leaders to discuss rent control, assistance for struggling renters
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Renters in Orange County are demanding action. Orange County commissioners will meet on Thursday to come up with solutions to fight the lack of affordable housing. “What we will be discussing is not just about rent control, but also about programs to provide assistance to renters who are struggling,” Mayor Jerry Demings said. Another idea the county is considering to provide relief to renters is capping rent hikes at 5% for a year. READ: Orange County residents fed up with rising rents, ask commissioners to declare ‘state of emergency’“I’m concerned about the consequences of capping rents instead of allowing the market to determine pricing,” an Orange County resident said.
wftv.comDavid Siegel sells a local Westgate Resorts site
ORLANDO, Fla. — Editor’s note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal. Westgate Resorts CEO David Siegel has sold another Orlando property. Read: Ex-Florida gubernatorial candidate Andrew Gillum indicted on 21 counts, including fraud & conspiracyThe Club Orlando property, built in 1984, features 42 condo-style units, according to the Orange County Property Appraiser. It last traded hands in 1981 when it was vacant land for $350,000, according to county records. Click here to read the full story on the Orlando Business Journal’s website.
wftv.comOrange County deputies search for teen girl missing over 10 days
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Orange County deputies are looking for a teenage girl who has been reported missing for nearly two weeks. WATCH: Ex-Florida gubernatorial candidate Andrew Gillum indicted on 21 counts, including fraud & conspiracyDeputies said 15-year-old India McKenzie was last seen around 8:30 a.m. on June 11. Deputies said she was last seen wearing a tie-dye shirt and tie-dye pants. WATCH: 9 Investigates: Orlando production company evicted after 2-year battle with landlordAnyone who knows where she may be is asked to call 407-836-4357. READ: Central Florida man arrested after trying to entice young girl into car, police sayClick here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.
wftv.comNew affordable housing community for seniors opens in Orange County
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Orange County leaders celebrated the grand opening of a new affordable housing community on Wednesday. READ: Orange County residents fed up with rising rents, ask commissioners to declare ‘state of emergency’County leaders had a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday morning. Channel 9 has a crew there to learn more about the community. READ: Developer sues after Apopka blocks affordable housing development, insists on ‘luxury’Check back and watch Eyewitness News for updates. 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.
wftv.comPuppy sales now banned at Orange County pet stores
Puppy ban takes effect at Orange County pet stores (WFTV)ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Pet stores in Orange County are now banned from selling puppies. READ: Dozens of residents given 24 hours to leave Osceola County motelLocal pet stores like Petland and Breeder’s Pick pushed for an injunction to stop the county from enforcing the rule. The attorney for the pet stores told WFTV’s Christy Turner her clients were disappointed by the decision and plan to appeal. READ: 9 Investigates: Orlando production company evicted after 2-year battle with landlordAccording to Petland, puppy sales account for roughly 70% of business. Orange County bans puppy sales (WFTV.com News Staff)Without that revenue, the owners fear they could go bankrupt.
wftv.com‘Big, happy, beautiful village:’ Orlando Kidz Zone lets children explore life skills, hobbies
Alexandre Temes calls her job a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The manager of the Englewood Kidz Zone grew up right in the neighborhood and has worked at the center for 23 years, starting as a summer camp counselor when she was just 16 years old.
Orange County residents fed up with rising rents, ask commissioners to declare ‘state of emergency’
VIDEO: OC Residents fed up with rising rents, ask commissioners to declare a “state of emergency" VIDEO: OC Residents fed up with rising rents, ask commissioners to declare a “state of emergency" (Angela Jacobs, WFTV.com/WFTV)ORNAGE COUNTY, Fla. — Orange County residents are concerned over skyrocketing rent, asking county leaders to reconsider declaring a “housing state of emergency” during Tuesday’s county commissioner meeting. County leaders told Channel 9 that they plan to look at more ways to combat the increase. County leaders said they’ll discuss a potential rent cap later this week, but the focus of today’s panel of legal experts was to investigate discrimination against those trying to find affordable housing. “Many victims of housing discrimination can feel helpless,” said Florida State Representative Anna Eskamani, who led today’s panel. Read: Central Florida man arrested after trying to entice young girl into car, police sayHousing advocates find housing discrimination against those with disabilities, who are the most prevalent.
wftv.comFlorida developer sues Apopka over denied plans for affordable apartments
VIDEO: Developer sues after Apopka blocks affordable housing development, insists on ‘luxury’ A Central Florida developer has filed a lawsuit against the City of Apopka. (Nick Papantonis, WFTV.com/WFTV)ORLANDO, Fla. — Editor’s note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal. A lawsuit has been filed in Orange County over a planned apartment complex near the much-anticipated city center project for one of metro Orlando’s fastest-growing suburbs. The city wants the future apartments to be luxury, rather than affordable housing. Click here to read the full story on the Orlando Business Journal’s website.
wftv.com3 cases of monkeypox reported in Central Florida
Video: 3 cases of monkeypox reported in Central FloridaORLANDO, Fla. — More cases of monkeypox are popping up in Central Florida. The Department of Health in Seminole County reported its first case on Monday. READ: First case of monkeypox reported in Orange CountyThere are now 13 confirmed or probable cases statewide. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said monkeypox can be serious, but it’s rare and currently a low threat to Americans. READ: Florida reports first presumptive monkeypox case in the stateThe disease usually spreads by direct physical contact.
wftv.comOCPS narrows search for superintendent to 2 finalists
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Orange County Public Schools has narrowed its superintendent search to two finalists. The finalists, Maria Vazquez and Peter Licata, will be interviewed by the school board on Tuesday. Vazquez is currently the deputy superintendent in Orange County. READ: OCPS superintendent Barbara Jenkins announces retirementThe school board is scheduled to select the new superintendent at the next meeting, which is scheduled for Tuesday, June 28. READ: Orange County Public Schools name semi-finalist for superintendent positionTo learn more about the superintendent search, click here.
wftv.comCrews responds to wildfires in Osceola County on Sunday
Crews responds to wildfires in Osceola County on SundayOSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — Fire crews in Osceola County responded to two wildfires Sunday afternoon. WATCH: Man dies after fire rips through Orange County auto repair shopOsceola County firefighters and crews with the Florida Forest Service teamed up to battle the blazes. One fire can be seen by Florida Department of Transportation cameras near the Florida Turnpike at mile marker 192, in Yeehaw Junction. Crews responds to wildfires in Osceola County on SundayCrews were seen working to contain the fire. PHOTOS: Marion County crews battle house fire Thursday morningChannel 9 has a crew working to gather more details and will have continuing coverage on Eyewitness News.
wftv.comOrange County first responders showcase new hurricane emergency equipment
Video: Orange County first responders showcase new hurricane emergency equipment Communication is essential for local first responders in any sort of emergency. (WFTV)ORLANDO, Fla. — Communication is essential for local first responders in any sort of emergency, but especially while hurricane season is underway. WATCH: Seminole County emergency manager: Lack of volunteers could impact hurricane emergency sheltersOrange County deputies have teamed up with First Net Authority to showcase their new high-tech emergency equipment. Photos: Orange County first responders showcase new hurricane emergency equipmentExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 10 Orange County first responders showcase new hurricane emergency equipment“A core network that stands on its own,” said Gulfport, Miss. READ: These names are on the 2022 hurricane season listClick here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.
wftv.comDEPUTIES DISCIPLINED FOR REVEALING NEWS OF BOB SAGET’S DEATH BEFORE FAMILY KNEW — KnightNews.com
Orange County deputies have been disciplined after revealing details about Bob Saget’s death before his family knew, according to a report. AdvertisementDeputies Emiliano Silva and Steven Reed both revealed the news of Saget’s death without proper approval. Emiliano Silva, who was a responder to Saget’s death, messaged his brother letting him know of Saget’s passing. Reed, an off-duty deputy, texted his neighbors immediately when he heard the news of Saget’s death. Both deputies violated the “Discipline Dispute Resolution Process.”Disciplinary actions have not been reported or released.
knightnews.comFHP: Deadly ATV crash along SR417 closes the highway for several hours Saturday morning
FHP: Fatal ATV crash closed SR417 for hours Saturday morning FHP: Fatal ATV crash closed SR417 for hours Saturday morning (WFTV)ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Highway Patrol says multiple ATVs along State Road 417 were involved in a deadly crash Saturday morning.
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Lawsuit challenging Orange County’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate dropped
Video: Lawsuit challenging Orange County’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate dropped A group of first responders has dropped its lawsuit challenging Orange County’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate. (WFTV)ORLANDO, Fla. — A group of first responders has dropped its lawsuit challenging Orange County’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate. READ: FDA authorizes 1st COVID-19 shots for infants, preschoolersThe attorney handling the lawsuit filed it last October. It came in response to Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings issuing a vaccine mandate for county employees last summer. READ: Officials: Millions of COVID-19 shots ordered for youngestThe attorney voluntarily dismissed the lawsuit because it’s no longer valid.
wftv.comFirst Case of Monkeypox in Orange County confirmed by Florida Department of Health — KnightNews.com
The Florida Department of Heath reported the first case of monkeypox in Orange County Florida Thursday afternoon. Jared Fox the Orlando Health Chief of Infectious diseases said he does not believe that the disease is as big of a threat as the public are led to believe. Advertisement“The good thing is it’s not an extremely infectious organism, so a lot of people are going to be scared but I don’t want them to be,” Fox said. The department said, “Currently, there is no proven, safe treatment for monkeypox virus infection. “The good thing is that the Department of Health is good at contact tracing.”There are currently over 20 presumed cases in Florida.
knightnews.comVolusia County Beach Safety in need of lifeguards as summer crowds arrive
VIDEO: Volusia County Beach Safety in need of lifeguards as summer crowds arrive Volusia County Beach Safety officials say a nationwide shortage of lifeguards is having an effect locally. (WFTV)VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Summer vacations and extreme heat have many people hitting the beaches of Volusia County. Beach safety officials say a nationwide shortage of lifeguards is having an effect locally. Day 6 of National Beach Safety week is tower talk! Beach Safety officials insist they have not seen an impact on response times due to the shortage.
wftv.comMarion County crews battle house fire Thursday morning
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.
wftv.comFirefighters battle flames at Orange County auto repair shop
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Orange County firefighters are working to put out flames at an auto repair shop. Drone 9 captured images of the flames and smoke billowing in the area. READ: Extreme heat continues, ‘feels like’ temps climb into the 100sThe building appears to be the home of an auto repair shop. READ: Disney pushes back completion date of Lake Nona campus, reports sayChannel 9 will continue to monitor the fire. 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.
wftv.comWoman accused of killing husband expected to testify again
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A woman accused of killing her husband will be back in the courtroom as her trial continues. On Wednesday, Danielle Redlick said she stabbed her husband, Michael Redlick, in the shoulder. READ: Testimony continues in trial of woman accused of stabbing husband to death in Winter Park homeDuring the cross-examination, Redlick didn’t waver from her story. READ: Prosecutors question woman on trial for stabbing husband to deathShe testified during most of that time that she was asleep next to Michael’s body. READ: Woman accused of stabbing husband to death at Winter Park home continues to testifyChannel 9′s Ashley Edlund will be in the courtroom.
wftv.comOne hurt in west Orange County shooting
One hurt in west Orange County shooting (WFTV)ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A person was hurt after a shooting near Ocoee early Thursday. Sheriff’s deputies were called to the area of Clarke and White roads around 3:30 a.m.READ: Disney pushes back completion date of Lake Nona campus, reports sayVidalia Court shooting (WFTV.com News Staff)A WFTV news crew watched as deputies put up crime scene tape around a home in the 1500 block of Vidalia Court. READ: Orlando’s future tallest skyscraper takes big step toward breaking groundChannel 9 has learned one person was shot in the leg and should be OK.Investigators have not said what led to the shooting or if any arrests were made. READ: Extreme heat continues, ‘feels like’ temps climb into the 100sStay with WFTV.com and watch Eyewitness News for the latest on this breaking story. Vidalia Court shooting (WFTV.com News Staff)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.
wftv.comHow gas prices are impacting summer travel
VIDEO: How gas prices are impacting summer travel How gas prices are impacting summer travelORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Whether it’s driving or flying, people looking to travel this summer are frustrated over the high gas prices. A new survey has found the rising prices are significantly impacting travel plans this summer. According to AAA, the average price of gas nationwide is more than $5 a gallon. But now, 41% of people say rising gas prices will greatly impact their decision to travel over the next six months. Still, 91% of those surveyed said they plan to travel over the next six months, but they may just take shorter trips, fewer trips or less expensive trips.
wftv.comCalifornia Highway Patrol seizes $203K in stolen Lululemon leggings
Officials with the California Highway Patrol seized more than $203,000 worth of stolen Lululemon leggings in an Orange County apartment, authorities said. Investigators intercepted the boxes and delivered the boxes to the address, The Orange County Register reported. On June 6, investigators discovered 16 boxes inside the apartment, each filled with stolen Lululemon leggings, the Los Angeles Times reported. Lululemon representatives said it was the largest recovery of stolen items in the company’s history, the CHP news release stated. It was unclear how many people were in the apartment when authorities served the search warrant, according to the Register.
wftv.comWinning scratch-off ticket gives Orange County man a million reasons to smile
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A Winter Garden man who took a chance on a $30 lottery ticket can now call himself a millionaire. Joshua Hudgins, 39, recently claimed his $1 million prize in Tallahassee, Florida Lottery officials said. Hudgins’ riches came after he stopped into a store in Kissimmee and bought a scratch-off ticket. Orange County woman wins $1 million in Florida Lottery scratch-off gameThe store will receive a $2,000 bonus commission for selling him the winning ticket, lottery officials said. (Florida Lottery)According to Florida Lottery, the overall odds of winning a prize from Billion Dollar Gold Rush Supreme are one-in-2.59.
wftv.comFHP: One killed, one hurt in wrong-way crash in Orange County
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — One person died early Wednesday following a two-vehicle crash in east Orange County, the Florida Highway Patrol said. Troopers said a Toyota Tacoma, driven by a 75-year-old Orlando man, was heading southbound on the northbound inside lane of Goldenrod Road. The truck collided head-on with a Toyota Highlander SUV that was traveling northbound on Goldenrod. The driver of the SUV, a 35-year-old man from Orlando, was taken to Orlando Regional Medical Center with non-life-threatening injuries. READ: Police visited condo where man shot, killed wife, mother-in-law and stepson last weekTroopers did not release the names of those involved and said the crash remains under investigation.
wftv.comTrial for woman accused of killing husband in Winter Park home continues after she testifies
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The trial for a woman accused of killing her husband in their Winter Park home continues on Wednesday. On Tuesday, Danielle Redlick took the stand for the first time, telling jurors she stabbed her husband, Michael Redlick, in self-defense. READ: Winter Park woman accused of stabbing her husband to death takes the standDanielle told the jury that after she stabbed Michael she ran to the bathroom because she thought he was still chasing her. She didn’t think the wound would kill her husband. READ: Testimony continues in trial of Winter Park woman accused of stabbing husband to deathChannel 9 will have a crew in the courtroom on Wednesday as the trial continues.
wftv.comSkeletal remains found at Pine Hills construction site
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The Orange County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the discovery of some skeletal remains at a construction site in Pine Hills. Deputies were called to the area of West Colonial Drive just east of Powers Drive shortly after 4:45 p.m. Tuesday. READ: Man fatally shoots wife, son & mother-in-law in CasselberryAccording to the sheriff’s office, construction workers were digging in the area when they found the bones. READ: 2 teens killed caught in middle of feud stemming from social media, rap songsThis story is developing. Please stay with WFTV as more information comes into our newsroom.
wftv.comWindermere aims to build citywide bike, pedestrian trail if county transportation tax passes
ORLANDO, Fla. — Editor’s note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal. A proposed penny sales tax hike in Orange County may fund a path for cyclists, pedestrians and golf cart drivers throughout the town of Windermere. The top three bike/pedestrian projects prioritized by Windermere all are focused on the creation of the Windermere Ward Trail. This program could help youThe trail entails creating sections of multimodal paths that connect with existing sidewalks and crosswalks. Pedestrian fatalities are at an all-time high in Central Florida Pedestrian fatalities are at an all-time high in Central Florida (WFTV)©2022 Cox Media Group
wftv.comTyre Sampson’s autopsy shows he was nearly 100 pounds over drop ride’s maximum weight limit
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A medical examiner released Tyre Sampson’s autopsy on Monday. According to the ride manual, the maximum weight of a Free Fall rider should be 286 pounds. READ: Tyre Sampson’s mother: Death on FreeFall could have been preventedThe average gap between the seat and the harness on the Free Fall ride is 3 inches. Investigators said Sampson’s seat was extended to about 7 inches. The state still has not revealed who made the adjustment to Sampson’s seat.
wftv.comWinter Park woman accused of killing husband could take the stand
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — An Orange County woman on trial in her husband’s murder could take the stand in her own defense. Danielle Redlick is accused of stabbing her husband to death in 2019. Danielle Redlick trial (WFTV.com News Staff)On Monday, Redlick’s daughter testified in the courtroom for the very first time. READ: Testimony continues in trial of woman accused of stabbing husband to death in Winter Park homeShe said that she remembered her parents arguing and drinking that night. Their daughter went on to say her father was rarely angry.
wftv.comState attorney’s office seeks funding to offer daycare services to employees
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The state rejected a funding request that the Orange-Osceola state attorney said could have helped with an employee shortage. The cost of daycare for one child can cost a parent at least $1,000 a month, but the new daycare would have cost the state attorney employees less than $300 a month. State Attorney Monique Worrell, a mom, showed Channel 9 where her office had grand plans outlined in a proposal to make room for an employee daycare. We have a difficult time hiring and retaining individuals because of the low pay that we’re able to offer,” Worrell said. Records: Mount Dora officers arrested suspected drunk drivers on lesser charges to avoid paperworkIn addition to funding, Worrell said the office also needs the county to approve renovations to that space.
wftv.com3 COVID-19 subvariants on the rise, officials say
VIDEO: 3 COVID-19 subvariants on the rise, officials say 3 COVID-19 subvariants on the rise, officials sayORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Three COVID-19 subvariants are taking over across the country. A lot of cases are going unreported, whether from the lack of public testing or at-home test kits. READ: CDC: Two new versions of omicron COVID-19 virus gaining ground in the USCDC data shows that, right now, Florida is second in new adult admissions to the hospital. READ: Coronavirus: CDC adds island destinations to ‘high risk’ category for travelThere are three new subvariants of the virus. READ: 15-acre wildfire affects traffic in Seminole CountyFDA vaccine committee to consider approval of Novavax COVID-19 vaccine If the Novavax vaccine is approved by the FDA, Americans will have a fourth COVID-19 vaccine to choose from.
wftv.comOrange County health officials issue blue-green algae bloom caution for two Orlando lakes
ORLANDO, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Orange County is notifying residents of blue-green algae bloom caution for two Orlando lakes. Read: The super moon is back; here’s when to look upOn Monday the Florida Department of Health in Orange County a heath alert for the harmful toxins in Lake Ivanhoe. See map of area below:Officials learned of the blooms after water samples showed evidence of the possible contamination May 26. See map of location below:Because blooms have the potential to produce toxins, health officials advise people to take the following precautions:-Do not drink, swim, wade or boat in waters where there is a visible bloom. -Avoid getting water in your eyes, nose or mouth-Keep pets and livestock away from the waters where there is a bloom.
wftv.comDeputies identify man fatally shot in Orlando Family Dollar parking lot
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The Orange County Sheriff’s Office has released the name of a man who died following a shooting outside of an Orlando business on Friday. Investigators said Monday that Ricky Jones, 44, died after being shot in the parking lot of Family Dollar off of South Orange Blossom Trail. READ: Dozens of trucks towed, arrests made during ‘unsanctioned’ event in Daytona Beach ShoresWhen they arrived at the scene, they found two people had been shot in a parking lot outside the store. The other victim, in his 20s, was reported to be in stable condition a short time after Friday’s shooting. Investigators have not said what may have led to the shooting or if there are any suspects in the case.
wftv.comTrial continues for woman accused of stabbing husband to death in Winter Park
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The trial for the woman accused of killing her husband inside their Winter Park home continues Monday morning. Investigators said Danielle Redlick stabbed her husband to death in 2019. Emails from Danielle Redlick to her husband Michael Redlick revealed marriage trouble between the couple eight months before his death. READ: Testimony continues in trial of Winter Park woman accused of stabbing husband to deathInvestigators said Redlick waited hours before calling 911 and first told the 911 operator that her 65-year-old husband had a heart attack. Redlick eventually claimed she was scared and that is why she waited 11 hours to call 911.
wftv.comBrightline trains to chug along by holidays, but without passengers
VIDEO: Brightline trains to chug along by holidays, but without passengers Brightline trains to chug along by holidays, but without passengersORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Brightline is creeping closer to debuting a new way of speeding through Florida as gas prices continue to climb. The company is working to build a high-speed rail service between Central Florida and South Florida, but those trains will run empty for a while. SEE: Brightline high-speed train arrives at new OIA station for the first timeOfficials said the train will be chugging along by the holidays, but it won’t have any passengers on board. READ: Gas prices in Florida continue to break recordsLast month, Brightline brought one of its trains into the Orlando International Airport station. READ: Construction of new wildlife underpass underway on I-4VIDEO: Brightline’s International Drive, Universal stop secured by new funding, company officials say The long battle between Brightline and Universal Studios about the fate of the company’s Central Florida service appears to have ended.
wftv.comOrange County deputies use simulator to train for active shooter situations
Video: Orange County deputies use simulator to train for active shooter situations The training includes a simulator that helps deputies respond to possible active shooter scenarios they could encounter. READ: Mass shootings intensify reform efforts at grassroots levelThe training includes a simulator that helps deputies respond to possible active shooter scenarios they could encounter. Photos: Orange County deputies use simulator to train for active shooter situationsExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 14 Orange County deputies use simulator to train for active shooter situationsDeputies must be prepared to go in alone to take out the shooters. Under normal circumstances deputy safety takes priority, but in active shooter situations the priorities change. “The safety priorities in this situation are the hostages,” said Lt. Chris Gunn, Orange County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team assistant commander.
wftv.comTestimony continues in trial of Winter Park woman accused of stabbing husband to death
VIDEO: Testimony continues in trial of Winter Park woman accused of stabbing husband to death Testimony continued Friday in the trial of the Orange County woman accused of murdering her husband. (WFTV)ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Testimony continued Friday in the trial of the Orange County woman accused of murdering her husband. Police say now 48-year-old Danielle Redlick stabbed her husband Michael to death in their Winter Park home in 2019. VIDEO: Winter Park police identify 65-year-old found dead as UCF executive Two days after a? She’d filed for divorce, and Michael had already moved out of the Winter Park home they shared with two children.
wftv.comHomebuilder snags big site in Apopka. Here’s what’s coming.
VIDEO: Orange County rent control referendum has commissioners’ support Orange County rent control referendum has commissioners’ supportORLANDO, Fla. — Editor’s note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal. M/I Homes Inc. aims to start development of a 225-home community in Apopka in the fourth quarter of this year, Director of Land Acquisition Jared Wilken told Orlando Business Journal. Read: CDC: Two new versions of omicron COVID-19 virus gaining ground in the USM/I Homes (NYSE: MHO) on June 7 paid $6.8 million for roughly 56 acres off State Road 414, according to Orange County records. The Columbus, Ohio-based homebuilder will develop 225 homesites on the property, which sits in one of Orange County’s hottest residential markets. Click here to read the full story on the Orlando Business Journal’s website.
wftv.comDeputies investigating deadly shooting near Orlando
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The Orange County Sheriff’s office is investigating after two people were shot Friday morning near Orlando. Investigators said both men were taken to a nearby hospital where one of the victims, a man in his 30s later died. The other victim a man in his 20s was said to be in stable condition. Read: Seminole County man charged in Capitol attack appointed to election-related positionInvestigators have not said what may have led to the shooting or if there were any suspects. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 8 Deputies investigating an early morning shooting near Orlando (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.
wftv.comOrange County man accused of impersonating an officer arrested again on drug, weapons charges
VIDEO: Orange County man accused of impersonating an officer arrested again on drug, weapons charges A dispute over electrical meters led to state and federal charges for an Orange County man accused of posing as an FDLE agent. (WFTV)ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A dispute over electrical meters led to state and federal charges for an Orange County man accused of posing as an FDLE agent. Residents along Auburn Cove Lane in the Avalon Park Community say they were afraid of their neighbor, 43-year-old Jason Beaty. READ: Amazon releases ‘Virtual Try-On’ that will allow customers to try on shoes before you buy themBeaty was arrested on state charges for impersonating a police officer and federal charges for possession of firearms. He’s also accused of flying a drone dangerously close to workers in the neighborhood and using it to follow people around.
wftv.com4 local restaurants receive Michelin stars for their excellence
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Some of the best restaurants in America are right here in Central Florida, and now they have official proof of their high quality. Four Orange County restaurants became the first in Florida to receive Michelin stars: Capa, Knife and Spoon, Kadence and Soseki. READ: Cox Media Group awarded for ‘Gets Real’ campaign’s impact on communitiesThe Michelin Group’s ratings are known around the world as a sign of excellence. Thirty other local restaurants also earned a Bib Gourmand Award, which is awarded to excellent restaurants that serve food at moderate prices. ©2022 Cox Media Group
wftv.comDeveloper plans another local affordable apartment complex
Orange County officials look for answers as rising cost of rent worsens (WFTV)ORLANDO, Fla. — Editor’s note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal. A Minnesota-based developer wants to built 396 affordable apartments in an Osceola County community that continues to attract development. “Dominium sets aside 100% of its units at 60% of the area median income.”Read: What is it? Strange image caught on camera at Texas zooCollier declined to cite a price, but said the deal would close by the end of the month. Click here to read the full story on the Orlando Business Journal’s website.
wftv.com‘We’re pretty maxed out right now’: Orange County animal shelter battles overcrowding
'We're pretty maxed out right now': Orange County animal shelter battles overcrowding (Phylicia Ashley, WFTV.com/WFTV)ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Orange County Animal Services needs help. Animal care assistant Jackie Early said the influx of surrendered pets has made for some tight quarters. Animal services said nearly 100 dogs are given up daily with just about 20 going back out to a home. In order to help with adoptions, animal services says all adoptions are $25 dollars and plans for adoption and foster events are in the works. Animal services said giving an animal a few days in a loving home not only helps lessen the strain on shelter resources but is better for the animals’ well-being.
wftv.comOrlando’s online permit fee calculator mistakenly gave inflated estimates, staff members say
Critics say one reason driving the short supply of homes is Orlando’s strict zoning. R-1 zoning, which historians say is a relic of the segregation era, is often difficult to remove due to local opposition. That's VERY pricey -- and totally incorrect, city staff said. However, city staff said their calculator included fees that shouldn’t have been listed — chiefly, the school impact fee that accounted for almost half the cost. The price tag includes sewer fees, transportation fees and parks fees, along with the building permit.
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