SANFORD

As the cleanup process continues, residents are figuring out the next steps, like how to pay for all for their damages.

Flooding continues to increase in Seminole County areas

Nice weather continues to dominate the forecast in the Orlando area.

The Seminole County Office of Emergency Management held a news briefing Sunday morning to discuss the rising waters and future flood risks to the area’s lakefronts following Ian.

David Krazeise said they don’t have flood insurance because they never thought they’d need it. Read: LIVE UPDATES: SunRail to resume service Monday“We weren’t under the impression we lived in a flood zone,” Krazeise said. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 32 Hurricane Ian floods parts of Central FloridaRead: Need FEMA assistance? But without flood insurance, if the damage is from natural rising waters, it won’t be covered. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 20 People rescued from Ian floodwaters around Central Florida Crews around Central Florida help rescue people from Hurricane Ian’s floodwaters.

Chief Meteorologist Tom Sorrells spent hours on air Wednesday and Thursday tracking the progress of Ian as the monster storm tore across the state.

A seafood restaurant in Sanford was destroyed as Hurricane Ian moved through Central Florida Wednesday night into Thursday.

The 'Rideout Crew' will be staying with the animals over the next few days as Hurricane Ian hits Florida.

SANFORD, Fla. — Tortoises at the Central Florida Zoo are now living in their own little paradise. The zoo unveiled a new living space for the radiated tortoises this week. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 15 Central Florida Zoo unveils new habitat for tortoisesThe four special reptiles now have access to a peaceful landscape that includes a babbling brook and cypress stumps. Read: SeaWorld Orlando wants your help to name this baby dolphin“The tortoises couldn’t all share the same space at once, so now we have this giant water feature with a large waiting area for the tortoises so all four of them can enjoy the water at the same time,” said Christopher Torge, director of animal operations at Central Florida Zoo. Read: ‘Right place, right time’: Orlando officer honored for saving infant’s lifeLocal nurseries and pond builders from across Seminole County worked together to build the new habitat.

People across Central Florida are preparing for any possibility of a storm that could hit Florida in the coming days.

Seminole County leaders said they started preparations on Wednesday for a possible hurricane that could impact Central Florida next week. In the St. John’s River in Sanford, residents are concerned about this area and are monitoring it. He has worked for Florida Power and Light for 30 years and has been through every storm since Hurricane Andrew. Wilma hit us hard in West Palm, and it was a scary thing.”Tom Terry tracks Tropical Depression 9: In-depth report (WFTV)Evatt said new Florida residents should hit the grocery stores now and fill up their gas and propane tanks. “Our public works team and Environmental Services team is working around the clock to make sure that happens.”Read: New to Florida?

SANFORD, Fla. — Officials in Seminole County are preparing for the possible impact of a tropical system next week. Watch: Tropical Depression 9 forms in Caribbean, could impact FloridaSeminole County announced Friday that a site will be open to offer sandbags for residents looking to prepare for possible impacts and flooding from the storm system. The sandbag site will be open at Boombah Seminole County Sports Overflow Lot at 3450 East Lake Mary Boulevard in Sanford from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Watch: Hurricane Fiona to bring rough surf, strong rip currents to Volusia County beachesSeminole County residents should bring their own shovels and gloves and be prepared to fill and load the bags themselves. Seminole County leaders are also working on opening shelter locations in the event a tropical storm or hurricane threat is imminent.

SANFORD, Fla. — The Central Florida Zoo’s radiated tortoises moved into their majorly updated habitat on Wednesday. The tortoises now have waterfront property with a babbling brook and luscious landscaping. Last week, zoo officials said local nurseries and pond builders from across the county worked together to pull together the new habitat for the radiated tortoises. According to the zoo, radiated tortoises, which are native to southern Madagascar, are extremely vulnerable to habitat loss as suitable habitat continues to be converted to other uses, such as charcoal production. Photos: Central Florida Zoo’s radiated tortoises return to renovated habitatExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 7 Central Florida Zoo unveils new habitat for radiated tortoises Central Florida Zoo’s radiated tortoises returned to their new home on Wednesday.

A 30-year-old man was shot and killed in unincorporated Sanford, according to the Seminole County Sheriff's Office.

Carling Ponder, the owner of Rollin' Dough and The Knot, always has her hands full.

SANFORD, Fla. — Bed Bath & Beyond has announced the closure of more than 50 stores – and one of them is in Central Florida. Read: Bed Bath & Beyond releases partial store closures listThe store in Sanford on Towne Center Boulevard is set to close. The company is trying to rescue itself and keep from having to file for bankruptcy. Read: Florida lottery introduces 4 new scratch-off games, offering players billions in total winningsIt also plans to add more stores to the list. 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.

Sanford residents who gottawannaneedagettahavea Bojangles are in luck once more. The Carolina chicken chain is back open in Sanford after they beat a hasty retreat...

Thieves hit a Sanford company, making off with 36 catalytic converters from trucks at the business, according to police.

The man convicted in the fatal shooting of a University of Wisconsin physician and her husband in the school's arboretum was sentenced to life in prison Wednesday without the possibility of parole. Khari Sanford abducted Dr. Beth Potter, 52, and Robin Carre, 57, at gunpoint from their Madison home on March 30, 2020, and took them to the UW Arboretum where he shot both of them in the head. Sanford, 21, had been living with his girlfriend — the couple's daughter — in their home until tensions rose over coronavirus precautions.

SANFORD, Fla. — A series of unfortunate events led three orphaned Mexican spider monkeys to their new home at the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens. Zoo officials said in order for wildlife traffickers to obtain infant spider monkeys to sell into the pet trade, they have to kill the entire troop. (Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens)Zoo officials said the monkeys came to the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens through a partnership with the U.S. government and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. The zoo said the monkeys will be “founders” in the AZA’s Species Survival Plan, bringing new genetic lines to the AZA population of spider monkeys. Read: Central Florida Zoo’s miniature train attraction returns this Fall“These three spider monkeys have been acclimating well and hitting the milestones we expect,” said Chris Torge, the zoo’s director of animal operations.

More than a year after it was first announced, Bojangles has opened the first of 15 planned restaurants around the greater Orlando area.

SANFORD, Fla. — The Seminole County Republican party chairman at the center of a “ghost candidate” investigation was found guilty by a jury Thursday afternoon. Benjamin Paris was accused of illegally using his cousin’s name to make a campaign contribution to an NPA candidate for the District 9 Senate race in 2020. Read: Jury returns guilty verdict in ‘ghost candidate’ case against GOP leader in Seminole CountyDuring closing arguments Thursday morning, prosecutors told jurors that Paris conspired with District 9 Senate candidate Jestine Iannotti and political consultant Eric Foglesong to illegally use the name of another person to make a campaign contribution to Iannotti’s campaign. Watch: 3 charged in connection with 2020 state Senate race ‘ghost candidate’ controversyParis’ defense attorney claimed the state did not prove where the money came from, and that there was no proof that Paris donated the money. Read: Third-party ghost candidate in local Senate race the focus of FDLE investigationTrial dates for Foglesong and Iannotti have yet to be set.

The first of three people charged in the so-called “ghost candidate” case in Seminole County has been found guilty.

SANFORD, Fla. — Craft cocktails are now on the menu at Loggerhead Distillery in Sanford. The distillery is serving up handcrafted drinks now, thanks to a change in Florida law that allows distilleries to serve cocktails in-house. Read: UCF football fans can now buy alcohol during gamesLoggerhead hand-makes small batches of a variety of spirits including vodka, rum, moonshine, bourbon, and gin. The distillery is located at 124 W. 2nd St. Photos: Sanford’s Loggerhead Distillery adds cocktails to its menuExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 10 Loggerhead Distillery The distillery is serving up handcrafted drinks now thanks to a change in Florida law that allows distilleries to serve cocktails in-house.

SANFORD, Fla. — The fate of the head of Seminole County’s Republican Party is now in the hands of a jury. Watch: Woman accused in Seminole County ‘ghost candidate’ investigation takes the standBenjamin Paris is accused of illegally using the name of his cousin to make a campaign contribution to an NPA candidate for the District 9 Senate race in 2020. Watch: 3 charged in connection with 2020 state Senate race ‘ghost candidate’ controversyThey said there is a mountain of evidence that they put into a timeline of phone calls and text messages between the three individuals during May and June of 2020. But the biggest piece of evidence was from Paris’ cousin, Steven Smith, whose name appears on the campaign contribution list. Read: Third-party ghost candidate in local Senate race the focus of FDLE investigationSmith said he never met Iannotti or Foglesong.

SANFORD, Fla. — Bojangles is back in the greater Orlando area. The chain returned to the area with a new location in Sanford that opened this week. The new location is located at 101 South Oregon Avenue. Read: Popular chain to open 15 new restaurants in Orlando after leaving the area almost 6 years agoLast year, Chaac Foods Restaurants announced it would open 12 Bojangles locations in Orlando and one location each in Winter Garden, Davenport and Kissimmee over the next seven years. Photos: Bojangles returns to Central FloridaExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 5 Bojangles Bojangles in Sanford is now open.

Hollerbach’s Art Haus’ new “Garbology” exhibit will run from Aug. 25 through Oct. 6 at the 205 E 1st Street location.

Loggerhead Distillery in Sanford will now allow guests to enjoy craft cocktails made with their in-house spirits.

Jury selection began Monday in the first of three criminal trials related to Seminole County’s so-called “ghost candidate” scheme to influence a 2020 Florida senate election.

Seminole County Public Schools is inviting members of the public to attend a preview event Tuesday evening to look at instructional materials for the district's social studies classes, district officials said.

SANFORD, Fla. — Alligator season has officially begun in Florida and hunters have already headed to the water this week. Hunter Harry Austin said gator hunting is just what people do in Florida. Read: “He’s just chillin’ “: Deputies respond after woman reports alligator in swimming pool“I think gator hunting is part of Florida, it’s what we’ve always been part of,” he said. “Prior to the 1970s, alligators were hunted almost to extinction and there was a brief pause on alligator hunting and how do we reward them? According to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, there are about 1.3 million alligators across Florida.

SANFORD, Fla. — Residents in Sanford will now be able to directly communicate with city officials, thanks to a new mobile app. The free app, called Sanford Connects, allows citizens to sign up to receive notifications on city events, road closures, and other emergency notifications on their mobile devices. Officials said residents who make inquiries through the app will receive a response from city staff. Here’s how much you’ll payMore information on Sanford Connects can be found here. 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.

Sanford Airport officials are rallying behind one of their officers after his wife was killed and his 10-year-old daughter and their family dog were injured in a lightning strike in Winter Springs.

One educator in Sanford is opening the door for children to learn in their own way and unlock their full potential.

A man was arrested Saturday morning and faces aggravated stalking charges in the shooting of his ex-girlfriend’s current boyfriend, according to the Sanford Police Department.

Prosecutors revealed Friday no further charges would be filed against two men accused of damaging a teen’s car during a confrontation in a Sanford neighborhood back in June.

Seminole County Fire Department personnel on Friday suited up and rolled out to deliver a care package of classroom essentials for teachers and students to use for free throughout the new school year.

The Humane Society said its animal rescue team began removing roughly 4,000 beagles from a mass breeding facility in Virginia, which received multiple violations for issues like inadequate veterinary care and insufficient food on July 21.

VIDEO: More alleged abuse victims identified in case against Sanford foster parent More alleged abuse victims identified in case against Sanford foster parentSANFORD, Fla. — Investigators said they’ve identified more alleged child-abuse victims in the case against Sanford foster parent Justin Johnson Sr..Johnson was arrested in February and accused of creating child pornography featuring the children in his care. READ: 9 Investigates: Plea agreement details red flags inside Sanford foster homeOn Wednesday, investigators said they’ve now identified 20 alleged victim, and they’re working to identify even more. Johnson is scheduled to be sentenced in October in federal court. READ: 9 Investigates: Foster care failures; why the system is so hard to changeSee the full story in the video above. VIDEO: Plea agreement details red flags inside Sanford foster home VIDEO: Plea agreement details red flags inside Sanford foster home (Karla Ray, WFTV.com)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.

A candidate for the Seminole County School Board election filed a lawsuit Friday claiming another school board candidate violated election laws.

Three new sheep are roaming around the Central Florida Zoo and Botanical Gardens, and they’re already meeting guests as of Monday, according to the zoo.

Video: Seminole County Public Schools increase mental health resources for students Fights broke out at several Seminole County schools last year on almost a daily basis. (WFTV)SANFORD, Fla. — Fights broke out at several Seminole County schools last year on almost a daily basis. Seminole County school have hired a number of behavioral interventionists, mental health counselors and social workers throughout the district. Photos: Seminole County Public Schools increase mental health resources for studentsExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 10 Seminole County Public Schools increase mental health resources for studentsThose hires came after several community meetings over the summer. The Seminole County Sheriff’s Office said each elementary and middle school will have one school resource officer.

The morning commute may ruffle some feathers.

A 7-year-old girl dies hours after a crash on Interstate 4 near Sanford.

A political consultant who is accused of helping put a “ghost candidate” on a ballot to siphon off votes from the Democratic candidate in a state Senate race in central Florida has pleaded not guilty to election finance-related charges during his first court appearance.

Video: Sanford businesses celebrate ‘Christmas in July’ to help boost sales Christmas has come early for small businesses in Sanford. (James Tutten, WFTV.com/WFTV)SANFORD, Fla. — Christmas has come early for small businesses in Sanford. Photos: Sanford businesses celebrate ‘Christmas in July’ to help boost salesExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 11 Sanford businesses celebrate ‘Christmas in July’ to help boost salesAt each store they got a stamp, even if they didn’t buy anything. They said the last two years have been especially hard on small businesses. The city had this event last year, but businesses owners said there were COVID-19 restrictions in place.

The Ritz Theatre in downtown historic Sanford is already celebrating 100 years since it opened its doors in 1923.

Sanford officer placed on leave after domestic violence arrest, police saySANFORD, Fla. — A Sanford police officer has been placed on administrative leave after he was arrested on a charge of domestic violence. WATCH: 4-year-old girl found dead, man and juvenile in critical condition at Longwood home, police sayOfficials said Sanford Officer William Hamlin was arrested in Casselberry, in relation to an investigation of alleged domestic violence. Police said Hamlin was immediately placed on leave pending the outcome of both a criminal and administrative investigation. WATCH: Teen injured in shooting after family member mishandles gun, Orange County deputies say“We will investigate every aspect of the incident and allegation,” said Sanford Police Chief Cecil Smith. Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

A Sanford officer at the center of a criminal and domestic violence investigation was placed on administrative leave Thursday, police said.

2 men shot, 1 killed at home in Sanford, police saySANFORD, Fla. — Sanford police are investigating a shooting that left one man dead Thursday. WATCH: Teen injured in shooting after family member mishandles gun, Orange County deputies sayOfficers said two men were shot around 11 a.m. at a home on Anderson Circle. One victim was killed and the other was taken to a hospital in critical condition. Officers did not say what led up to the shooting. WATCH: 4-year-old girl found dead, man and juvenile in critical condition at Longwood home, police sayPolice said the shooting appears to be an isolated incident.

A man being evicted was arrested after police said he fatally shot one man and critically injured another at a home in Sanford.

Seminole County firefighters on Wednesday distributed and installed smoke detectors in a Sanford neighborhood after a recent fire badly damaged a home.

The family of Sanford teen Jermaine Jones have filed a lawsuit against the two men who allegedly attacked him while he drove through a subdivision....

The family of a teen whose car was damaged in a confrontation with neighbors of a Sanford community has filed a lawsuit against two of the men arrested.

A driver was hurt Sunday when a car drove into a Wells Fargo Bank in Sanford.

Video: 1 hurt as fire destroys Sanford home without smoke detectors, firefighters say Several people were inside the home at the time the fire broke out. (WFTV)SANFORD, Fla. — Fire gutted a home in Sanford on Friday. WATCH: ‘Our hearts are broken’: Apopka mourns line-of-duty death of firefighter Austin DuranAs Channel 9 arrived on the scene, smoke was still coming from the house on Harding Avenue. Photos: 1 hurt as fire destroys Sanford home without smoke detectors, firefighters sayExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 22 1 hurt as fire destroys Sanford home without smoke detectors, firefighters sayFire crews worked quickly to put out the blaze, but one person did suffer minor injuries. WATCH: Florida’s road rage problem won’t be fixed before mental health crisis is solved, counselor saysFire officials said there was no working smoke detector in the home.

Fire crews tackled a home fire in Sanford Friday, according to the Seminole County Fire Department.

A man has been reported as missing endangered after being discharged from a local hospital in Sanford, according to the Sanford Police Department.

VIDEO: Plea agreement details red flags inside Sanford foster home VIDEO: Plea agreement details red flags inside Sanford foster home (Karla Ray, WFTV.com)SANFORD, Fla. — A plea agreement is giving us a clearer look at how many children were victimized at the hands of a Sanford foster father, and the red flags those children witnessed before they knew they were being recorded for child pornography. Johnson will serve prison time under the terms of a plea agreement announced by federal prosecutors, after he promised to plead guilty to charges of creating child pornography children inside his Sanford home. Now we know that although those children had no idea they were being photographed or recorded in places like their rooms or the bathroom, there were red flags several of them reported to investigators. We also asked for general information about how many children had been in Johnson’s care since becoming a foster parent, along with their ages and genders. At least one was a friend visiting one of the foster children in his care.

Volusia County students will receive free school breakfast and lunch for the 2022-23 school year with no need to fill out family income applications, according to the Volusia County School District.

Gov. Ron DeSantis is set to deliver remarks at the Florida Teacher of the Year Conference in Orlando Tuesday afternoon.

VIDEO: Sanford homeowner films black bear getting snack from garage fridge VIDEO: Sanford homeowner films black bear getting snack from garage fridge (Jeff Levkulich, WFTV.com/WFTV), Fla. — A Sanford homeowner got a surprise when he walked into his garage on Saturday night and found a black bear going through his refrigerator. Jason Mickel and his wife, Laura, were alerted by a neighbor around 7 p.m. that they had a bear in their garage. While Laura went to the front yard, Jason went into the garage with his cellphone ready and recording. Read: Fleeing homicide suspect crashed into building, shot by police multiple times in Lake County“Going through my fridge, I see, aren’t you?,” Jason said to the feasting bear. “You going to take all my food?”The bear went through both refrigerators, eating up about $60 worth of food and even going back for seconds.

A Sanford man caught a very large bear raiding a refrigerator in his garage Saturday afternoon.

Habitat for Humanity dedicates home to family in Sanford Habitat for Humanity dedicates home to family in Sanford. (WFTV/WFTV)SANFORD, Fla. — A family has a newly built house this weekend. Habitat for Humanity Seminole-Apopka dedicated the Hutto family’s home Saturday. Read: Central Florida ministry forced to cut back on supplies as more homeless families reach outThe team celebrated its newest homeowner with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Expand Autoplay Image 1 of 14 Habitat for Humanity dedicates home to family in Sanford Habitat for Humanity dedicates home to family in Sanford.

Sanford police search for missing man with Alzheimer’s last seen walking dogSANFORD, Fla. — Sanford police are looking for a missing and endangered man Saturday evening. WATCH: Volusia deputies rescue missing man with Alzheimer’s disease lost in muddy woodsOfficers said Daniel Gonzalez, 65, was last seen around 3:30 p.m. leaving his home in Celery Key Estates to walk his pet chihuahua. Police said Gonzalez has Alzheimer’s disease, and did not return home. Sanford police search for missing man with Alzheimer’s last seen walking dogDue to his condition, he is considered endangered because he does not know his surroundings, police said. WATCH: Victims identified after deadly rollover crash at Orlando International AirportAnyone with information on Gonzalez’s location is asked to call the Sanford Police Department at 407-688-5070.

Police are looking for Daniel Gonzalez, who left his home around 3:30 p.m. Saturday to walk his dog and didn’t return, police said.

A Sanford foster parent accused of producing videos of children being sexually exploited pleaded guilty Friday, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Jones was confronted by two men while driving to a friend's home in June

SANFORD, Fla. — The family of a teen at the center of a viral video is planning to sue two men accused of attacking him. The men were arrested after Seminole County deputies said they threw a rock through the boy’s car window for speeding through their neighborhood. That’s why they plan to file a civil suit against the men charged with attacking their son. READ: Teen says men threw stone at his car window while driving through Sanford neighborhoodJermaine Jones (WFTV.com News Staff)He said he was attacked by a group of homeowners for speeding through the Lake Forest subdivision in Sanford. Photos: Teen says men threw stone at his car window while driving through Sanford neighborhoodHoward Hughes, 61, and Donald Corsi, 52, are facing criminal charges for smashing a rock through Jermaine’s car window.

VIDEO: Family seeks charges against ‘vigilante justice’ after men throw stone through teen’s car window Family seeks charges against ‘vigilante justice’ after men throw stone through teen’s car windowSANFORD, Fla. — Jermaine Jones, 16, along with his parents and attorneys walked out of the Seminole County Courthouse Thursday morning after meeting with state attorney’s office. He called the actions by neighbors there “vigilante justice” after they stopped the teen for speeding through the neighborhood visiting a friend. READ: Teen says men threw stone at his car window while driving through Sanford neighborhoodHoward Hughes, 61, and Donald Corsi, 52, are facing criminal charges. Jones admits to speeding but says he didn’t deserve a rock thrown through his car window. READ: Brittney Griner pleads guilty to drug possession, smuggling, reports sayVideo: Teen says men threw stone at his car window while driving through Sanford neighborhood The 16-year-old also captured part of the confrontation on video.

The family of a teen whose car was damaged in confrontation with neighbors in a gated Sanford community last month will hold a news conference to call for “more serious charges” against the two men arrested in the incident.

Florida natives and tourists can party and take a cruise on Lake Monroe while getting in their exercise time.

A body was found in a retention pond off Lake Mary Boulevard in Sanford, according to fire officials.

Video: Investigation underway after body found in pond in SanfordSANFORD, Fla. — Sanford police are investigating after a body was found in a pond on Tuesday morning. A Channel 9 crew watched as dive teams recovered the body from the pond near Lake Mary and Live Oak boulevards. READ: Troopers investigate 3 deadly crashes on Central Florida roadwaysIt is not known how long the body was in the pond. We are reaching out to Sanford police to find out more information. READ: ‘People were getting trampled’: Hundreds run from Lake Eola fireworks show after ‘noise’ scareExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 8 Body pulled from Sanford pond (WFTV.com News Staff)See a map of the scene below.

A Sanford crash resulted in two pedestrians sent to the hospital with serious injuries Monday, according to Sanford Police and Fire.

The crash involved three vehicles, one of which was a truck carrying a trailer, and occurred on Lake Minnie Drive and US 17-92.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis said the new civic education program was pushing back on the "woke indoctrination" of children.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis will hold a news conference at a technology magnet school in Sanford.

A Baltimore man was arrested last month after dressing like a Disney cast member and moving a statue replica of the R2-D2 droid from the Star Wars franchise, according to arrest records from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.

Nearly everywhere you look in the area surrounding Midway in Seminole County, there are signs of new development.

Sanford’s Theatre West End is set to premiere its student-led showing of “Puffs,” based on the Harry Potter series of children’s books.

Video: Sanford carjacking suspects crash into family's minivan, deputies say The crash caused the minivan to roll on its side with two adults and a 2-year-old child inside. (WFTV)VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — Two carjacking suspects running from police in Volusia County crashed into a family’s minivan, according to deputies. Photos: Sanford carjacking suspects crash into family’s minivan while running from Volusia deputiesExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 10 Sanford carjacking suspects crash into family’s minivan while running from Volusia deputiesPolice said they were pulling over a gray Dodge Charger traveling 76 mph in a 45 mph zone when the driver sped off. Sanford carjacking suspects crash into family’s minivan while running from Volusia deputiesAnother deputy soon found the men outside of the Walmart at SR-415 and Howland Boulevard. Sanford police also charged both suspects with carjacking with a firearm, and Manning was additionally charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Video: Residents look for ways to beat the heat as temperatures soar in Central Florida Channel 9 spoke with people who said a little kindness goes a long way this weekend. (WFTV)SANFORD, Fla. — With the heat index getting well past 100 degrees this weekend across Central Florida, community groups are teaming up to make sure people have a way to beat the heat and take this seriously. Channel 9 spoke with people in the area, who said a little kindness goes a long way this weekend. Photos: Residents look for ways to beat the heat as temperatures soar in Central FloridaExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 8 Residents look for ways to beat the heat as temperatures soar in Central FloridaThe social services group provides help for those in need, and the biggest necessity this week has been ways to keep cool. Click here to download the free WFTV news and weather apps, and click here to watch the latest news on your Smart TV.

Whether you love taking pictures or admiring art, we have compiled a list of murals around Central Florida.

Video: Teen says men threw stone at his car window while driving through Sanford neighborhood The 16-year-old also captured part of the confrontation on video. (WFTV)SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — Two men are facing charges after a teenager said they shattered his car window with a large stone in a Seminole County neighborhood. The teen driver said the men accused him of speeding through the neighborhood before one of them threw the rock through his window as he was driving. Photos: Teen says men threw stone at his car window while driving through Sanford neighborhoodExpand Autoplay Image 1 of 4 Teen says men threw stone at his car window while driving through Sanford neighborhoodThe teenager said the confrontation happened Tuesday inside an upscale Lake Forest community in Sanford. He said he’s been in the neighborhood many times before because one of his best friends lives there.

— (AP) — A South Dakota judge ruled Thursday that there's no basis to keep sealed documents related to a child pornography investigation of billionaire banker and philanthropist T. Denny Sanford. Judge James Power wrote that affidavits supporting search warrants should be made public under South Dakota law. But he said they would remain sealed until Sanford and his attorneys decide whether to appeal the ruling to the state Supreme Court. The South Dakota attorney general's office declined to file charges against Sanford following the investigation, saying it found no "prosecutable offenses" within the state's jurisdiction, according to a court document filed last month. The 86-year-old Sanford is the state’s richest man, worth an estimated $3.4 billion.

SANFORD, Fla. — A man was indicted in the fatal shooting of two people earlier this year at an apartment complex, the Sanford Police Department said Wednesday afternoon. Police said Baker, who was armed, met with Baptiste at the apartment complex to sell him marijuana. Investigators said Baptiste had planned with Moore and others to rob Baker during the drug deal. Baptiste was indicted on charges of first-degree murder, second-degree murder, robbery with a Firearm, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of cannabis, unlawful use of two-way communication device and resting an officer without violence. Watch: 11 people rescued from capsized boat in FloridaAnyone with information about the deaths is asked to call Sanford police or Crimeline at 800-423-8477.

A Sanford teen’s car was badly damaged when he attempted to drive to a friend's house on Wednesday. 16-year-old Jermaine Jones was confronted by a...

The Florida Department of Health for Seminole County has just extended an algae bloom alert for three Central Florida lakes. Swimmers are warned from taking...

SunRail, Central Florida Zoo announce return of "Choo-Choo to the Zoo" for summer 2022 (WFTV)SANFORD, Fla. — Just in time for summer, Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens and SunRail announced the return of “Choo-Choo to the Zoo” for 2022. Starting June 6, visitors can ride SunRail to the Sanford station where they can hop aboard a free shuttle to and from the zoo. #RideSunRail to the Sanford Station and climb aboard the FREE trolley that will take you to the @CentralFLZoo. pic.twitter.com/qbUUnd6V0I — SunRail (@RideSunRail) June 6, 2022Along with the trolley service, visitors will also get a 20% discount on zoo admission. Read: SeaWorld announces 7th roller coaster, opening in 2023Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens CEO Richard Glover said the service is perfect for families who want to visit the zoo without having to drive.

VIDEO: First all-female honor flight touches back down in Central Florida First all-female honor flight touches back down in Central FloridaSANFORD, Fla. — The first all-female honor flight has touched back down in Central Florida. The flight left Orlando Sanford International Airport Tuesday morning with 109 veterans on board from The Villages. “This is the first all-women flight from Florida and came about following a request from the TriCounty Women Veterans almost two years ago,” Liza Walters, VP Operations, Villages Honor Flight, said in a news release. “This flight is a huge deal.”READ: ‘Waited a long time for this’: 109 veterans participate in Florida’s 1st all-female honor flightThe women were welcomed back to Central Florida with a lot of fanfare. To make their trip a reality, the group Tri-County Women Veterans raised more than $100,000 to make the overnight trip.

SANFORD, Fla. — A group of inspiring Central Florida women are on their way to the nation’s capital. On Tuesday morning, more than 100 female veterans got on a plane for Florida’s first-ever all-female honor flight. READ: Tau Herculids meteor shower 2022: 8 photos shared by skygazersThe group was greeted by a color guard and given breakfast while they waited for their 6 a.m. flight to Washington D.C. Honor flight (WFTV.com News Staff)The women said it was about time that they had this opportunity. READ: A library trip can earn Floridians free admission to state parks this summer“We’ve waited a long time for this, and we’re finally getting some recognition.

Sanford Investigation FILE - T. Denny Sanford, a retired banking executive turned philanthropist, poses for a photo on the patio of his home overlooking Pinnacle Peak in Scottsdale, Ariz., March 24, 2016. South Dakota investigators in 2019 began searching his email account, as well as his cellular and internet service providers, for possible possession of child pornography after his accounts were flagged by a technology firm. South Dakota Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg had earlier requested the involvement of federal law enforcement. As part of arguments in state court over the release of the documents, Jackley said the investigation revealed that his client's email accounts were hacked. He made a fortune as the founder of First Premier Bank in South Dakota, which is known for issuing high-interest credit cards to those with poor credit.

— (AP) — The South Dakota attorney general's office has declined to file charges against billionaire T. Denny Sanford following an investigation into possible possession of child pornography, according to court documents filed Friday. South Dakota investigators in 2019 began searching his email account, as well as his cellular and internet service providers, for possible possession of child pornography. South Dakota Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg had earlier requested the involvement of federal law enforcement. A state filing in January said both state and federal investigations were continuing at the time. The Department of Justice declined to comment Friday when asked if a federal investigation is ongoing.

SANFORD, Fla. — The Florida Department of Health in Seminole County is notifying residents near Lake Dot of a blue-green algae bloom. Read: Neighbors worry bird flu to blame for dozens of ducks found dead in Sanford-area lakesOfficials learned of the bloom after water samples showed evidence of the possible contamination May 19. -Avoid getting water in your eyes, nose or mouth-Keep pets and livestock away from the waters where there is a bloom. READ: Florida lawmakers look to increase penalties for animal crueltyBlue-green algae is a common occurrence in freshwater environments throughout Florida and can appear year-round. READ: Florida lawmakers look to increase penalties for animal crueltyMore information about Florida’s water quality status and public health notifications can be found here.

VIDEO: Former Flea World property in Sanford could soon see new life Former Flea World property in Sanford could soon see new lifeSANFORD, Fla. — The former Flea World in Sanford has sat vacant since it closed seven years ago. The property, located across from the Seminole County Courthouse on U.S. Route 1792, has been tied up in a probate court for several years after the owner died. Syd Levy, the owner of the property, was in the process of selling it to make way for the Reagan Center, a mixed-use development after Flea World shut down in 2015. READ: 3 charged in connection with 2020 state Senate race ‘ghost candidate’ controversyIn his will, Levy left the property to the Boys and Girls Club of Central Florida. The Boys & Girls Club said it wants to move forward with a buyer that will make Levy proud and be an asset to Seminole County.

SANFORD, Fla. — Prosecutors said three people were charged Tuesday in connection with a “ghost candidate” controversy during the 2020 election. The charges are related to the 2020 race for the District 9 Florida Senate seat, which covers parts of Seminole and Volusia counties. Republican Jason Brodeur defeated Democrat Patricia Sigman in that race, but a third-party “ghost candidate,” Jestine Iannotti, also played into the defeat. Read: From flatscreens to trucks, Orange County Comptroller’s online auction opens May 25Iannotti, the independent candidate in that race, and political operatives James Foglesong and Benjamin Paris were all charged in connection with the investigation. VIDEO: 3rd party ghost candidate in local Senate race the focus of FDLE investigation The FDLE is looking into allegations associated with the recent Senate District 9 election that covers Seminole and part of Volusia counties.

Video: FDOT looks to improve rush hour traffic on I-4 in Seminole County Anyone who drives I-4 during rush hour knows there’s always a backup around the Lake Mary and Sanford exits. (WFTV)SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — The I-4 Ultimate project might be finished, but the Florida Department of Transportation still has a lot of work in store for the interstate. Part of FDOT’s plans is to improve the driving experience through Seminole County. Anyone who drives I-4 during rush hour knows there’s always a backup around the Lake Mary and Sanford exits. The other plan in Lake Mary is to add a new exit ramp at Lake Emma Road by Topgolf.

VIDEO: Neighbors worry bird flu to blame for dozens of ducks found dead in Sanford-area lakes Neighbors worry bird flu to blame for dozens of ducks found dead in Sanford-area lakesSANFORD, Fla. — Neighbors in Seminole County are concerned after seeing dozens of dead ducks surround multiple popular lakes. It’s happening in the Sanford area at Lake Dot, Lake Minnie and a nearby retention pond on an unnamed lake on 17-92. Neighbors said they’re worried it could be bird flu killing the ducks. READ: Baby boom: Louisville Zoo announces birth of Hartmann’s mountain zebraSee the full story in the video above. Avian flu: What you need to know about bird flu (NCD)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.