Tropical Depression 2 likely to become Tropical Storm Bertha; minimal impact expected for FL Panhandle

Tropical Depression 2 is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Bertha while remaining offshore of the Florida Panhandle. Okaloosa County remains under a Tropical Storm Watch, though officials say impacts should be limited to heavy rain, gusty winds, dangerous surf and possible minor coastal flooding through Tuesday.
Holt Man Accused of Lewd Act and Assaulting Deputies During Arrest

A Holt man faces multiple charges after deputies say he exposed himself in public and assaulted officers during his arrest.
Federal Immigration Cases Highlight Repeat Illegal Reentry in Okaloosa County

Federal prosecutors announced 16 immigration convictions in June, including multiple cases originating in Okaloosa and Walton counties.
Smoke Expected as Eglin Conducts Prescribed Burn Near Florosa

Residents near Florosa may see smoke this week as Eglin Air Force Base conducts planned prescribed burns to reduce wildfire risks and improve forest health.
Fort Walton Beach Police Make Arrest After Violent Condo Shooting

Two people were shot at a Fort Walton Beach condominium complex before police tracked down and arrested a suspect in Crestview.
National Men’s Health Month Brings Warning About Preventable Illness

HCA Florida Fort Walton-Destin Hospital urges men to schedule screenings and checkups during National Men’s Health Month.
Disturbing Evidence Leads to Guilty Verdict in Animal Cruelty Case

A Santa Rosa County jury convicted a man of aggravated animal cruelty after prosecutors said he tortured a kitten to death in 2023.
Valparaiso weighs possible department merger with Niceville Fire Chief

In Brief: The City of Valparaiso could see changes to its fire department, currently overseen by the Niceville Fire Department, to cut staffing costs and organize the department(s). Valparaiso City Commissioners discussed their ideas with Niceville Fire Chief Alex Kukulus at a workshop on June 11. Kukulus serves, along with the command team at Niceville […]
New Florida Warning Reveals Hidden Dangers of Kratom Products

Florida health officials are warning residents about 7-OH products sold in stores statewide, citing risks including seizures, addiction and respiratory failure.
Florida Governor candidate Jay Collins kicks off tour in Santa Rosa County

In Brief: Florida’s Lieutenant Governor and gubernatorial candidate Jay Collins kicked off his statewide “Come and Take It Tour” at Grey Man Armory in Milton, FL on Tuesday. “I’m here to talk about two things that go together: The Second Amendment and public safety,” Collins said. “Those two things are completely linked. For too long, […]