Crime & Public Safety
Monday, May 4, 2026 · Saint Petersburg
Florida Executes Willacy for 1990 Palm Bay Arson Murder
Chadwick Willacy, 58, met his end by lethal injection Tuesday at Florida State Prison in Starke, closing a 35-year saga for the brutal 1990 slaying of his Palm Bay neighbor Marlys Sather. Despite proclaiming innocence in his final words, Willacy became Florida's fifth execution of 2026 amid fierce debates over the state's lethal injection methods.[1][2][4]
Broward Burglary Spree Ends in Arrests Tied to South American Theft Ring
Broward Sheriff's Office has busted a string of high-end residential burglaries in Weston's gated Windmill Ranch Estates, linking suspects to a notorious South American theft group targeting wealthy enclaves nationwide. Authorities recovered tools of the trade and seized stolen goods worth millions, including a $500,000 jewelry heist. Homeowners in South Florida's suburbs are urged to bolster security amid the crackdown.
Monday, May 4, 2026
Atlanta Man Nabbed After Torching Sanford Temple, Wild Multi-County Chase
A 51-year-old Atlanta man faces felony arson charges after allegedly setting fire to a Sanford Buddhist temple, sparking a high-speed chase across Central Florida highways. Singhasouk Danny Phanouvong led police on a 115 mph pursuit through Volusia and Flagler counties before troopers stopped him with a PIT maneuver. The late-night incident shocked the tight-knit temple community in Seminole County.
Monday, May 4, 2026