Community News
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 · Hilliard
Hilliard Firefighter Dies in Line of Duty Amid Wildfire Recovery
The Hilliard Volunteer Fire Department announced the line-of-duty death of a firefighter on April 24, following intense battles against three wildfires that scorched 600 acres in town. As Nassau County lifts its burn ban, residents reflect on community support that fed crews at Stein Tompkins Sports Complex. The tragedy underscores Florida's ongoing emergency preparedness amid statewide weather threats.
Yulee Buzz: Sports Wins, Shuttles & Road Closures Impact Hilliard Neighbors
Yulee sports teams shine unbeaten while new shuttle services connect residents to groceries, but deadly crashes and ramp closures raise local concerns. Nassau County infrastructure gets a $6.25M boost from Gov. DeSantis. Hilliard folks watch closely as nearby events unfold.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Fernandina Beach Harris Teeter Evacuated Over Gas Issue
A Harris Teeter on First Coast Highway in Fernandina Beach was evacuated Tuesday due to a possible gas-related hazard, with Nassau County Sheriff's Office deputies responding around 3 p.m. Evacuations of the store and nearby businesses were lifted within an hour after no public threat was found. Hilliard residents traveling north on U.S. 301 should note the quick resolution at this regional shopping spot.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Three Hilliard Residents Hospitalized After Plane Crash in Georgia
A Hilliard family of six escaped with their lives but three remain hospitalized following a small plane crash Thursday at Davis Field in Folkston, Ga. Michael and Vickie Franklin are in critical condition at UF Health Jacksonville, while their son Brenton recovers from surgery. The NTSB and FAA are investigating the incident.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Cannon-Nelson Fire Tops 500 Acres Near Conner Nelson Road
The Florida Forest Service reports the Cannon-Nelson brush fire in Hilliard has reached 500 acres and is 40% contained as of Saturday evening. Voluntary evacuations affected 12 homes, with roads closed and a barn damaged. Crews continue overnight efforts amid a countywide burn ban.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026
Hilliard Firefighter James 'Kevin' Crews Dies in Line of Duty Battling Brush Fire
Hilliard Volunteer Fire Department firefighter James 'Kevin' Crews, 59, died Thursday after a medical emergency while suppressing the Old Dixie Highway Fire south of Henry Smith Road. The incident marked the fifth wildfire in Hilliard over the past week amid dry conditions. The town announced the line-of-duty death in an official news release Friday.
Tuesday, May 12, 2026