Post-Isaias Update from the Emerald Coast: October 12
As post-Hurricane Isaias recovery continues across Okaloosa County, city facilities in Crestview and Niceville have reopened, though Turkey Creek and Children’s Park remain closed. CHELCO has restored power to over 50,000 members, while DOH-Okaloosa issued a health advisory for Choctawhatchee Bay and Santa Rosa Sound following wastewater overflows.
DeSantis holds press conference in Destin; confirms 2 hurricane-related deaths
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis confirmed two hurricane-related deaths during a press conference on Okaloosa Island. Crews are clearing debris, restoring power to hundreds of thousands of customers and preparing for potential flooding. State officials also outlined insurance assistance and recovery resources for hurricane-damaged businesses.
Damage and disaster update: Hurricane Isaias
This is our damage and disaster update for the Emerald Coast cities of Niceville, Valparaiso, Eglin Air Force Base, DeFuniak Springs, Freeport, Destin, Fort Walton Beach and surrounding areas.
Hurricane Isaias | So you’ve been ordered to evacuate— Now what?
Hurricane Isaias is expected to make landfall in the Florida Panhandle Friday. Here’s what Okaloosa County residents need to know about evacuations, shelters, safety and recovery resources.
Eddie Duran found not guilty in Airman killing; spectators protest
A jury found former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran not guilty of manslaughter in the 2024 fatal shooting of Senior Airman Roger Fortson. Following the unanimous verdict, spectators gathered outside the Okaloosa County Courthouse Annex Extension to protest. Local advocates criticized the jury selection and the evidence presented during the trial.
LIVE UPDATES: Jury deliberating in Eddie Duran manslaughter trial
The manslaughter trial of former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran began with opening statements, witness testimony and bodycam footage from the 2024 shooting death of Senior Airman Roger Fortson. Prosecutors presented evidence about the events leading up to the shooting, while the defense maintains Duran acted in self-defense.
Eglin AFB officials name victim discovered in mysterious range death
Eglin Air Force Base officials released the name of the person found dead in a burned-out car earlier this week. Here’s what we know:
BREAKING: Body found in burned vehicle on Eglin Air Force Base.
Eglin AFB claims a routine patrol discovered a burnt vehicle with a deceased person inside, now under investigation.
AFSOC leader Anthony Green found guilty of CSAM possession; dishonorably discharged
The trial of AFSOC Chief Master Sergeant Anthony Green ended with guilty verdicts on charges of indecent recording and possession, viewing and production of child sexual abuse material. Green was found not guilty of obstruction of justice. Sentencing is scheduled to resume at 1:30 p.m.
Defense presents its case in trial of Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Green
The defense rested its case in the court-martial of Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Green, calling military leaders and family members to testify about his character, work schedule and alleged parenting concerns. The judge rejected the defense’s proposed affirmative defense based on parental rights. Closing arguments are expected tomorrow.
