‘One person left:’ Detective says DNA solved 2001 UCF student’s murder
A cold case detective assigned to investigate the 2001 murder of a UCF student turned to new DNA technology and genealogy research to identify the suspected killer, the veteran homicide investigator testified in court Friday.
Man hurt overnight in shooting near Zellwood, deputies say
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Sheriff’s investigators are working to determine who shot a man in northwest Orange County early Friday. Deputies responded to Coral Berry Drive near Zellwood shortly after 4:30 a.m.At the scene, they located a man in his 20s who had been shot. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office said its investigation is active. A Channel 9 news crew is near the crime scene and continues to monitor deputies’ activity. 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.comTRAFFIC ALERT: Deadly crash closes section of SR-520 in Orange County
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a reported deadly crash in Orange County. Troopers were called out to State Road 520 near the Beachline Expressway around 1 a.m. Friday. Florida Department of Transportation video shows one car that is heavy damaged near the side of the road. Watch: ‘If they knew what we saw’: What’s being done to reduce number of suicides among firefightersThe crash has all eastbound lanes of State Road 520 shut down. It’s unclear how many vehicles were involved and what caused the crash.
wftv.com‘If they knew what we saw’: What’s being done to reduce number of suicides among firefighters
And for several Central Florida firefighters, it led to their deaths. Within just a few weeks, two Marion County firefighters recently committed suicide. The news of their deaths surfaced as 9 Investigates was already working on a special report about the horrific suicides of three Orange County firefighters within just a few months in 2022. “They were already mowing, we noticed there were a pair of tire marks that had creeped into the water,” Vazquez recalled. Losing that patient brought back memories of that first water rescue, where Vazquez told us, he felt like a failure.
wftv.comUnion workers start voting on Disney’s latest contract offer
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Disney union members are expected to start voting on the company’s latest contract offer. Union members were at the local union headquarters Wednesday preparing the ballots for votes Thursday and Friday. Disney is offering its 30,000 union members $1 more per hour each year for the next five years. Watch: DeSantis: Special session on Disney’s Reedy Creek expected next weekUnion leaders are asking workers to vote “no.”Union workers said they want a $3 per hour raise next year and a three-year contract. Channel 9 will monitor the Disney union vote and will provide updates on Eyewitness News.
wftv.comTRAFFIC ALERT: Crash slows traffic on westbound I-4 in Orange County
ORLANDO, Fla. — A bad crash is slowing traffic Thursday morning on I-4 in Orange County. The crash happened around 5 a.m. on westbound I-4 near Central Florida Parkway. Crews are working a multi-car crash that had all lanes blocked. Watch: Hit-and-run rollover crash causes major delays on SR 408 in Orange CountyDrivers were seen squeezing by on the left shoulder of the highway. Traffic is building on I-4 in both directions in the area.
wftv.comOrlando man accused of traveling to Volusia County to have sex with teens
VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — An Orlando man is accused of traveling to Volusia County several times to have sex with teenage girls. Deputies said Brian Richan, 43, was arrested Wednesday at his home by Orange County deputies. Deputies said two Volusia County girls, ages 15 and 16, reported in July 2022 that Richman communicated with them over text and social media about engaging in sex in exchange for money. Investigators said Richman urged one of the girls to perform sex acts on camera so he could post videos online to make money. Deputies said Richman was previously arrested by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office in 2017 during an undercover prostitution operation.
wftv.comFHP: Man struck and killed by bus on Universal Boulevard in Orlando
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Troopers said a 37-year-old man from Australia died after trying to cross Universal Boulevard in Orlando Tuesday night. The pedestrian was struck by a commuter bus shortly before 11 p.m., according to the Florida Highway Patrol. READ: Rollover crash shuts down part of I-4 in Osceola CountyFHP said that the collision happened after the man walked onto the southbound lanes of Universal Boulevard. Investigators said the bus driver was traveling southbound on Universal Boulevard, through the intersection of Jamaican Court with a green light, when the man walked directly into the path of the bus. Troopers determined that the front of the bus struck the man and said he died at the scene.
wftv.comProsecutors to charge Deltona teen with father’s murder
DELTONA, Fla. — Months after a teenager was accused and jailed for committing crimes in three different Central Florida counties, prosecutors are officially moving to charge him with the most serious offense he’s expected to face. Since then, Santiago has been in Lake County’s jail without bond to face charges there and awaits a transfer to Volusia County. READ: Judge orders no bond for Deltona teen accused of shooting at deputies, killing fatherTuesday, sources connected to the situation said the wait for his transfer may be nearing an end. A source said the charge would be second-degree murder, which can carry a life sentence in prison. READ: Deltona teen accused of shooting at deputies, killing father to receive mental examA spokeswoman for the State Attorney wouldn’t provide details, only saying they had been working on the transfer process for a while.
wftv.comFamily seeks answers after woman hit by car multiple times on I-4
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A grieving family wants answers after a young woman’s mysterious death on a busy Central Florida interstate. Her family is pleading for help after their cousin was hit multiple times on I-4 last week. There are no answers as to how she ended up outside her car. Around 11:30 p.m. one night, Orlando police started getting calls of multiple drivers hitting a body on I-4 heading east near the Orange Blossom Trail exit. The car was empty and crashed around the corner on the main road of OBT South.
wftv.comDeltona man accused of killing father, shooting at deputies to be in court Tuesday
LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — A man accused of killing his father before getting into a shootout with law enforcement will be back inside a courtroom Tuesday. Investigators said Jonny Santiago killed his father in Volusia County and dumped the body 30 miles away near Lake Avalon in Orange County last summer. Santiago may be seeking a plea deal in court on Tuesday. Read: Deltona teen accused of shooting at deputies, killing father to receive mental examBody camera video captured the moments, investigators say he got into a gun battle with Lake County deputies, before his arrest. No deputies were hurt in the shooting.
wftv.comMan shot and killed in Apopka, deputies say
APOPKA, Fla. — A man died after he was shot Monday night in Apopka, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office said. Around 9:30 p.m., deputies responded to the intersection of 10th Street and Central Avenue and discovered a shooting victim who died at that location, investigators said. Apopka shooting Orange County deputies responded to the shooting Monday night in Apopka. (WFTV Staff)READ: Deputies: 1 man dies after 2 found shot in Orange CountyOCSO did not release the man’s name but said he was in his 30s. Apopka shooting Orange County deputies responded to the shooting Monday night in Apopka.
wftv.comDeputies: 1 man dies after 2 found shot in Orange County
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Deputies in Orange County are investigating a deadly shooting. Deputies responded to a shooting at 11:10 p.m. Monday in the 300 block of Fairlane Avenue. Photos: 1 man dies after 2 found shot in Orange County, deputies sayExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 13 Deputies: 1 man dies after 2 found shot in Orange CountyOfficials said two men, one in his 30s and another in his 20s, were found suffering from gunshot wounds. They were both taken to a hospital where the man in his 30s died, deputies said. Read: 10 injured in Lakeland shooting, suspects still at large, police sayThe Orange County Sheriff’s Office said it has no details about the shooter or victims that it can release.
wftv.comChloe’s Law: What does it, and how does it protect motorists?
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A man is fighting for his life after state troopers said he crashed into a retention pond. Crews managed to pull the car out, to the edge of the retention pond on North Alafaya Trail by the 408 exit. A law was passed that was supposed to put barriers at spots like that to prevent the situation from happening. Since Arena’s death, two other people have crashed into the same pond on North Alafaya Trail. The law states the rule with barriers doesn’t apply to any location where the chief engineer determines a barrier would increase the risk of injury to motorists traveling on adjacent road.
wftv.comNew luxury hotel planned near Epic Universe theme park
ORLANDO, Fla. — Editor’s note: This story is available as a result of a content partnership between WFTV and the Orlando Business Journal. Chevy Chase, Maryland-based The Buccini/Pollin Group Inc. wants to bring a new luxury Marriott-brand hotel to Central Florida near Universal Orlando Resort’s Epic Universe theme park that’s now under construction. Why it matters: New hotel construction creates temporary construction jobs and permanent hospitality jobs, as well as opportunities for vendors and suppliers. In addition, new investment can spur other projects to move forward nearby such as retail, entertainment and dining. Click here to read the full story on the Orlando Business Journal’s website.
wftv.comNational Wear Red Day for women’s heart health
ORLANDO, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Orange County wants to raise awareness about women’s heart health and encourages women to know their numbers.
Friday is National Wear Red Day for Women’s Heart Health and the DOH Orange County is encouraging the community to wear red to help raise awareness of this deadly disease.
National Wear Red Day for women’s heart healthAccording to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women, causing 1 in 3 deaths each year.
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Driver in critical condition after car crashes into pond in Orange County
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Crew with Orange County Fire Rescue responded early Monday after a car crashed into an area of water. A car crashed into a retention pond around 6:15 a.m. near Alafaya Trail and State Road 408 in Orlando. Photos: Rescue divers, paramedics respond after car crashes into pond in Orange CountyExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 10 Rescue divers, paramedics respond after car crashes into pond in Orange CountySeveral rescue divers were seen in the water as they worked to pull the car out of the pond. Paramedics said the driver was recovered from the car and was taken to a hospital in critical condition. Several lanes of Alafaya Trail were closed as firefighters worked to secure the area.
wftv.comSunday almost saw record heat, warm temps to continue Monday
ORLANDO, Fla. — The 80s returned today, and Orlando was one degree away from a record. And meteorologist George Waldenberger said it will be even warmer Monday. Read: Orange County 5K connects healthy lifestyle to Oakland Heritage celebrationHe said all week will be in the 80s; as far as records are concerned, Leesburg and Sanford will be close to hitting records for the heat Monday. New and improved sunset time: now after 6pm! ©2022 Cox Media Group
wftv.comOrange County 5K connects healthy lifestyle to Oakland Heritage celebration
OAKLAND, Fla. — Healthy West Orange hosted its 6th annual 5K event this weekend. The Orange County event went along with the Oakland Heritage Day that honored the town’s 135th anniversary at the Oakland Nature Preserve. Photos: Healthy West Orange 5K connects healthy lifestyle to Oakland Heritage celebrationExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 38 Healthy West Orange 5K inspires wellness The event went along with the Oakland Heritage Day that honored the town’s 135th anniversary at the Oakland Nature Preserve. (Healthy West Orange/Healthy West Orange)According to a news release, more than 300 people participated in the race, which is the largest attendance. Health West Orange said they hope to inspire the Orange County community to be happy, healthy and active.
wftv.com‘A truly remarkable alligator’: Gatorland icon Chester dies at 60
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — An alligator that became part of the Gatorland family more than 20 years ago has died, the park recently announced. Chester the alligator died Dec. 7 as a result of an intestinal blockage, Gatorland said. READ: Here are 9 things to do this weekend in Central FloridaThe park estimated he was 60 years old. The massive gator was spared euthanasia when Gatorland rescued him from Tampa in 2002 after he ate a dog. Gatorland recently posted a video as a tribute to Chester.
wftv.comSaturday: Celebrate Oakland’s 135th anniversary at Heritage Day
OAKLAND, Fla. — Heritage Day returns this weekend to the town of Oakland in west Orange County. This year’s festival will be held on Saturday, Jan. 28 in Oakland’s historic downtown. A beer and wine garden will be located near the West Orange Creamery. Historic Florida section : Sponsored by Oakland Nature Preserve, featuring animal ambassadors and a silent auction benefitting the Preserve. Oakland Heritage Day runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Jan. 28For complete event details, click here.
wftv.comDisney workers union urges members to reject latest contract offer
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Members of the Service Trades Council Union, which represents 45,000 Disney workers, are encouraging members to reject a new contract offer from the company. At issue is a pay increase for the first year of the contract. The union wants a $3 dollar per hour raise next year and a three-year contract. Read: Funeral to be held for pioneering aviator Col. Joe Kittinger in OrlandoIn an official statement, Disney further broke down what that means. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 7 Disney unions urge workers to reject contract offer (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.comMan arrested after possible kidnapping leads to pursuit that ends with crash into fence
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A man was arrested Friday after a suspected kidnapping led to a chase that ended with a crash into a residential fence, according to Orange County Sheriff’s Office. Large @OrangeCoSheriff presence on West South Street right now. Deputies later spotted the van, which fled from deputies who then engaged in an authorized pursuit due to reasonable suspicion that a possible kidnapping had taken place, according to the sheriff’s office. He was taken into custody and has an active warrant for carjacking out of another jurisdiction, according to deputies. READ: ‘Terrifying’: Two convicted felons caught on camera robbing Amazon delivery driverVideo: Teen girl accused of shooting at Volusia County deputies returns to courtroom Friday A teenage girl accused of shooting at Volusia County deputies is scheduled to be back in court Friday.
wftv.comFlorida proposal aims to increase criminal penalties for hate crimes
ORLANDO, Fla. — There’s a new proposal aimed at putting an end to hate crimes in Florida. Channel 9 has been reporting on antisemitic messages found in Orange County this month. Flyers have been seen blaming members of the Jewish community for the COVID-19 pandemic. Watch: ‘Terrifying’: Two convicted felons caught on camera robbing Amazon delivery driverHowever, a new proposal will define certain acts as hate crimes and could increase criminal penalties. Third-degree felony charges could be on the table for people who damage religious cemeteries or harass someone because of religious-based clothing.
wftv.comNew Little League baseball complex under construction in Doctor Phillips
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A new Little League baseball complex is under construction in Doctor Phillips. The Doctor Phillips Little League All-Stars and Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings broke ground on the complex Thursday. Photos: New Little League baseball complex under construction in Doctor PhillipsExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 New Little League baseball complex under construction in Doctor PhillipsThe nearly 17-acre complex will be just off of South Apopka Vineland Road. Read: Here are 9 things to do this weekend in Central FloridaOne little league player said the fields at the new complex will be a major upgrade for him and the other players. The new complex will include four baseball fields with field lighting.
wftv.com‘Terrifying’: Two convicted felons caught on camera robbing Amazon delivery driver
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Two convicted felons were arrested for robbing an Amazon delivery driver at gunpoint earlier this month, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies responded to Caden Apartments on Americana Boulevard for reports of a robbery. The driver told deputies he was delivering packages in the complex when he saw one of the suspects standing near the driver’s side, according to an arrest affidavit. As the driver entered the delivery truck, another suspect entered the van’s cargo area and demanded the driver’s belongings, brandishing a gun and wasn’t afraid to shoot the driver, the affidavit states. See the video below:WATCH: Two convicted felons caught on camera robbing Amazon delivery driver Two convicted felons caught on camera robbing Amazon delivery driverREAD: Two Alachua men charged in Marion County mail theftsThe two men have a criminal history between them that includes 85 felony charges and 11 felony convictions, the sheriff’s office said.
wftv.comPush to ban rent control measures in Florida gains traction
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — There’s now a push to ban rent control measures across the state. She announced the proposal as Orange County fights for its own rent control measure. The proposal to forbid rent control under all circumstances is at the beginning. This bill is a direct attack on the Orange County voters who democratically passed a ballot initiative to stabilize rent. Orange County Commissioners took action and put rent stabilization on the ballot after state legislators failed to protect tenants last Session.
wftv.comUCF takes education and patient care to the next level with immersive simulation suite
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — For college students bridging the gap between the classroom and the real world is the key to success.
At the University of Central Florida, students at the College of Health Professions can get much-needed hands-on experience thanks to a new immersive simulation suite.
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Classroom volunteer banned for OnlyFans, Twitter accounts files suit against Orange County schools
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The attorney for an Orange County mother who was banned from volunteering at her kids’ school because of her OnlyFans account has filed suit against the school district. Victoria Triece, a 31-year-old mother of two, was an “Additions School Volunteer” with Orange County Public Schools at Sand Lake Elementary until 2021. (WFTV)The district then banned Triece from participating in any activities where she would have access to children. But yet, we have a morality police with the Orange County School Board and whatever administrators made this horrific decision,” NeJame said. When asked for comment about the suit the school district said they do not comment on pending litigation.
wftv.comOrange County approves new ‘Tenants Bill of Rights’ ordinance to protect renters
ORLANDO, Fla. — After months of discussion about affordable housing, Orange County commissioners have approved a new ordinance, meant to protect renters. Work will now be focused on an office for tenant services after county commissioners unanimously passed a “Tenants Bill of Rights.”The decision comes at a time when evictions continue to be at record levels in the community. Watch: City of Orlando, developer helps solve housing crisis with restoration projectThe Tenant Bill of Rights is an overview of renter rights, and it adds three new requirements for landlords. The office of tenant services will be a one-stop shop for renters in Orange County, providing a tenant help hotline, it will also have staff that could investigate complaints, and would offer help filing renter-related paperwork. The county says it plans to get started on setting up the new office right away.
wftv.comWomen accused of killing mother during shooting spree had violent history with neighbors
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The woman accused of killing an innocent mother during a shooting spree has a history of violent attacks against her neighbors, who reported it to deputies, 9 Investigates has learned. Angila Baxter was arrested earlier this month for firing random shots at vehicles, killing 27-year-old mother Nekaybaw Collier. READ: Orange County approves $1M to help domestic violence survivors and their familiesBaxter told investigators she was shooting because she thought someone was following her. Baxter’s neighbors reported her and installed cameras, but nothing was done. They were shocked to hear she killed someone, ant thought it would have been one of them.
wftv.comOrange County approves $1M to help domestic violence survivors and their families
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Orange County commissioners on Tuesday approved $1 million in funding meant to help domestic violence survivors and their families. It will cover the full childcare expenses for some victims of domestic violence as they work to escape abuse. READ: New details released on deadly hit-and-run involving Orange County correction officer’s carData shows that, on average, a domestic violence victim returns to their abuser seven times, mostly being financial reasons. READ: Orange County deputies resign after tip leads to investigation into them having sex on dutyThe county said the pilot program would initially cover care for about 50 children, but could expand after the second year. The county said it has a number of meetings lined up with nonprofits that will be referring domestic violence survivors to the new childcare program.
wftv.comNew details released on deadly hit-and-run involving Orange County correction officer’s car
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Channel 9 has obtained newly released records that provide more information about the hit-and-run crash that killed a 60-year-old husband and father. In early December, a BMW was heading the wrong direction on State Road 520 when it struck the Paulo Carvalho’s motorcycle head-on, killing him. However, it was later determined the BMW owner, 32-year-old Jorge Leonardo Moreiga, worked at the Orange County Jail as a corrections officer. READ: Wrong-way driver in crash that killed motorcyclist believed to be Orange County corrections officerFHP also said it is waiting on lab results on some of the evidence to come back from FDLE. READ: Jennifer Kesse: Family marks 17 years since her disappearanceVideo: FHP troopers share shocking crash video to highlight emergency response safety As a part of Move Over Awareness Month, Florida state troopers released video of an SUV launching into the air after crashing into a tow truck.
wftv.comJennifer Kesse: Family marks 17 years since her dissapearance
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — This week will mark 17 years since Jennifer Kesse disappeared from her Orlando area apartment complex on Jan 24. In the years since her disappearance, her family and law enforcement have continued to search for clues to her whereabouts. In an update on their GoFundMe page, the Kesse family said they would never give up searching for her. Read: Jennifer Kesse: Family and FDLE continue efforts to find answersFDLE, in conjunction with Orlando Police, essentially restarted the investigation into the Orlando woman’s 2006 disappearance. WATCH: 'The Search: Jennifer Kesse’“The effort our investigators have put forward to get us to this point has been incredible.
wftv.comHealth officials issue blue-green algae bloom caution for Lake Burkett
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Orange County is notifying residents near Lake Burkett of blue-green algae bloom. Officials learned of the bloom after water samples showed evidence of the possible contamination. -Avoid getting water in your eyes, nose, or mouth-Keep pets and livestock away from the waters where there is a bloom. READ: How Disney is using recycled glass to touch up resort horse trailsBlue-green algae is a common occurrence in freshwater environments throughout Florida and can appear year-round. More information about Florida’s water quality status and public health notifications can be found here.
wftv.comOrange County commissioners to discuss ‘Tenants Bill of Rights’ measure to protect renters
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Orange County commissioners are set to discuss two big topics on Tuesday. There has been a push in Orange County to create a “Tenants Bill of Rights.”If approved, this measure could protect renters from bad actors. Read: Condo owners say increasing assessment fees may force them to sellThe county already has $835,000 set aside to get an office up and running. If approved Tuesday, the office is going to be a one-stop shop for renters in Orange County. if the ordinance passes, landlords will need to provide a copy of the “bill of rights” to tenants before they move in.
wftv.comOrange County deputies resign after tip leads to investigation into them having sex on duty
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — A Crimeline tip in May led to a six-month investigation into accusations that two Orange County deputies were having sex on duty. Evidence gathered during this investigation substantiated elements of their testimony. While the investigation doesn’t disclose the tipster, Miller said she was having sex with Angel Mendoza too. He resigned the same time the tip came in, but was not under investigation. Sheriff John Mina sent a statement saying, “At the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, we hold our deputies to the highest ethical standards.
wftv.comVote here: Several Orange County deputies nominated for RISE Award
ORLANDO, Fla. — Several Orange County deputies have been nominated for 2023 RISE Awards because of their heroic actions. Orange County Deputy William Puzynski was nominated for saving a toddler from a burning apartment. WATCH: Video shows tense moments after woman allegedly killed terminally ill husband at hospitalSeveral other Orange County deputies are nominated for the award after rescuing a woman trapped in raging floodwaters during Hurricane Ian. VOTE NOW: Several OCSO Deputies have been nominated for a 2023 RISE Award presented by @axon_usDep. Vote: https://t.co/t8sO8yXwCc1 vote/day pic.twitter.com/dmFsjFK4y9 — Orange County Sheriff's Office (@OrangeCoSheriff) January 23, 2023©2022 Cox Media Group
wftv.comTroopers investigate deadly crash involving pedestrian in Orange County
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Florida Highway Patrol troopers are investigating a deadly crash in Orange County. Troopers said they responded after a crash happened around 8:16 p.m. Sunday on Sand Lake Road near Presidents Drive. Troopers said the driver of the car and a passenger were not injured and stayed at the scene. Read: Orlando police search for suspect who shot man after a crash, robberyThe age and name of the victim was not released by law enforcement. Channel 9 is working to gather more details and will provide updates on Eyewitness News.
wftv.comCool and breezy Monday after front moves through Central Florida
ORLANDO, Fla. — Central Florida will be cool and breezy Monday. Our area will see clear skies after a front moved through in the morning. Read: Orange County named ‘Tree City USA’ this yearThe high temperature in Orlando should reach around 69 degrees Monday afternoon. Highs for Monday in Central FloridaMonday night will be mostly clear and colder with low a temperature around 49 degrees. Read: Brevard Zoo set to celebrate the release of its 200th turtleCentral Florida will be warmer Tuesday and Wednesday before our next front cools things down Wednesday night.
wftv.com2 stabbed during fight in Orange County, deputies say
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Deputies in Orange County said two people were taken to a hospital after being stabbed. Deputies said the two people were stabbed on West Lancaster Road, about half a mile from Winegard Road. Read: Brevard County teacher accused of trying to meet up with student for ‘sexual relations’, deputies sayInvestigators said two people were attacked during some sort of fight. Watch: Woman accused of shooting husband at Daytona Beach hospital held without bondThey haven’t said exactly what happened or how those two people are doing. 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.comUCF police warn community to be cautious after vehicle burglaries
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The University of Central Florida is asking students to be mindful of recent vehicle burglaries. UCF Police are investigating crimes reported from the Pointe at Central apartments on Wednesday. Read: January is Move Over Month, FHP reminds motorists to follow the lawAccording to a release, residents found their cars unlocked and missing items. Read: Orlando police search for suspect who shot man after a crash, robberyUCFPD said they will continue to look into these crimes and advise students to stay aware, lock their vehicles and avoid leaving valuable items in their cars. ©2022 Cox Media Group
wftv.comOrange County named ‘Tree City USA’ this year
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The National Arbor Day Foundation awarded Orange County with an award on Friday. The county was named Tree City USA for the 16th year in honor of the state’s Arbor Day, according to a release. The Tree City USA program recognizes tree-planting efforts. Read: Duke Energy celebrates Florida Arbor Day, gives away free trees“Trees provide effective and low-cost solutions to many urban challenges, including reducing pollution, removing carbon dioxide from the air, and reducing energy costs for homeowners,” said Mayor Jerry Demings. Read: Fresh squeeze on sports: New pickleball team comes to OrlandoLast year, Orange County planted more than 2,500 trees and gave 1,000 trees to homeowners.
wftv.comUCF medievalist receives $60K research award for book
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The National Endowment for the Humanities recently selected a University of Central Florida assistant professor for a highly competitive research award. The university said Stephen Hopkins received a $60,000 fellowship for his book, “The Infernal Laboratory: Vernacular Theology and Hell in the Medieval North Sea.”Hopkins said the book explores the concept of the afterlife in texts during the Middle Ages. Read: UCF football player dismissed after Orlando home invasion arrest, officials sayHopkins focuses on English subjects but also teaches linguistics, early medieval literature and mythology, UCF said. Read: UCF student makes it to top 5 in Miss Universe competitionAccording to the NEH website, Hopkins is one of 70 NEH fellowship recipients, with a total of $3.9 million granted overall. ©2022 Cox Media Group
wftv.comMotorcycle rider killed in early morning crash, troopers say
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a deadly early morning crash involving a motorcycle.
The crash happened Sunday at around 1:50 a.m. near the intersection of South Orange Blossom Trail and West Michigan Street in Orange County.
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