Crime & Public Safety
Tuesday, April 21, 2026 · Clearwater
NHTSA Report Highlights Drunk Driving Dangers Across U.S.
A new report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that drunk drivers cause one death every 51 minutes across the U.S., a statistic with local implications for Clearwater.
Teen Arrested in Deadly I-75 Hit-and-Run near Bradenton
An 18-year-old Florida man faces vehicular homicide charges after allegedly weaving a Ford Mustang into a fatal chain-reaction crash on I-75 in Manatee County. The collision killed a 34-year-old semi-truck driver from New Smyrna Beach and shut down southbound lanes for hours. Florida Highway Patrol released crash video showing the Mustang's reckless maneuver before the driver fled.[1][2][3]
Tuesday, April 21, 2026
DeLand Teens Sought for Foam Attack on Protected Gopher Tortoise
Two teenagers remain at large after allegedly spraying expanding foam into a gopher tortoise's mouth in DeLand, sparking outrage over cruelty to Florida's iconic protected species. The tortoise survived thanks to quick rescue efforts but highlights growing threats to wildlife in Volusia County. Authorities urge tips to identify the juveniles.
Tuesday, April 21, 2026
When DCF Comes A-Knockin': Understanding Florida's Child Protection System
If police are called to a domestic dispute with children present in Florida, they are mandated to report the situation to DCF, which can lead to child removal if danger is perceived.
Tuesday, April 21, 2026