Registration opens for the 2026 Florida Python Challenge
Florida officials announced registration is open for the 2026 Florida Python Challenge, which encourages the public to help remove invasive Burmese pythons from the Everglades.
News
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HCSO arrests 14 in $5 million retail theft operation
Detectives say a sophisticated retail theft ring operating across four states led to 14 arrests and the seizure of millions in stolen goods during “Operation D-Fence.”
HCSO introduces ‘Prepared’ 911 platform to improve emergency response
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office has launched a new AI-enhanced 911 platform designed to improve emergency response times, dispatcher awareness and communication with deputies through real-time video sharing and instant call transcription.
Community seeks answers, prevention measures after deadly Plant City violence
Plant City residents voiced frustration and demanded stronger domestic violence prevention efforts during a Plant City commission meeting following multiple recent shootings, including a quadruple homicide involving a mother, grandmother and two young children.
Mayor Jane Castor delivers State of the City Address, emphasizes a city built to last
Mayor Jane Castor’s 2026 State of the City Address highlighted major investments in infrastructure, housing, transportation, public safety and climate resilience, as she outlined Tampa’s continued growth strategy focused on strengthening the city’s foundation for the future.
Lovebugs return to Tampa Bay as temperatures rise
Lovebugs are returning across the Tampa Bay area as temperatures rise. Experts say the insects are harmless but can become a nuisance, especially for drivers dealing with buildup on vehicles during peak mating season.
Hurricane Preparedness Week urges preparation ahead of June 1 hurricane season
The National Weather Service has designated May 3 through May 9 as Hurricane Preparedness Week, encouraging residents to prepare ahead of the June 1 start of hurricane season. Officials urge households to review evacuation plans, build emergency kits and stay informed on storm alerts to reduce risks and improve safety.
Hillsborough County Sheriff Office outlines timeline in USF student murder investigation
Sheriff Chad Chronister held a press conference providing a timeline of the investigation involving two University of South Florida students, outlining key developments from the initial missing person reports through forensic findings and ongoing investigative efforts.
Sea turtle nesting season begins, conservation efforts ramp up along beaches
Sea turtle nesting season has begun and will continue through October 31, marking a critical period for adult turtles to lay their eggs. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium has launched its annual nesting patrol and is urging residents and visitors to follow guidelines to help protect the species.
Year-round Tampa Bay Ferry Service to connect Tampa, St. Petersburg
The Tampa Bay Ferry will link Tampa and St. Petersburg with two vessels operating daily, seven days a week.
DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day returns April 25
Residents will have the opportunity to safely dispose of unused or expired medications April 25 during the 30th annual National Prescription Drug Take Back Day.
Suspect of two missing USF students has been charged, human remains found but not identified
The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office is investigating the disappearance of two University of South Florida doctoral students last seen April 16 in Tampa. The Tampa Bay Observer is continuing to follow the case and will provide updates as new information becomes available.
Tampa Reopens Renovated Herman Massey Park
The Community Redevelopment Agency and the Tampa Parks and Recreation Department celebrated the renovation of Herman Massey Park with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
West Riverwalk Project Underway, Expanding Tampa Connectivity
Mayor Jane Castor held a press conference to discuss the West Riverwalk project, a major expansion that will extend the Tampa Riverwalk into Tampa Heights and West Tampa to improve connectivity and mobility across the city.
Development in Collier County Sparks Lawsuit Over Threat to Florida Panthers
Conservation groups have filed a lawsuit agains the U.S. Fish and Wild Life Service and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, aiming to protect endangered Florida Panthers from a proposed 10,264-acre residential and mix-use development in Collier County.
Protest Planned Over Country Thunder Festival on St. Pete Beach Hotel During Nesting season
The Coastal Wildlife Advocacy Group is organizing a protest on April 4 from 10 a.m. to noon, urging the TradeWinds to reconsider hosting Country Thunder during peak nesting season and asking the city of St. Pete Beach to not approve the Special Event Permit.
Environmental Groups Warn of Extinction Risks After Gulf Drilling Exemption
The Trump Administration has voted to exempt oil drilling operations in the Gulf of Mexico from protections under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), a decision that environmental advocates warn could put vulnerable marine life at greater risk of extinction.
New Regional Drought Restrictions Take Effect April 3
Modified Phase III "Extreme" Water Shortage Restrictions was approved by the Southwest Florida Water Management District. The Tampa Water Department is asking residents to follow the new drought restrictions to better conserve water resources, according to the City of Tampa.