Niceville Fl News

Big Florida Energy: Suspect demands Niceville police stop chasing him

A high-speed pursuit on June 12, 2026, spiraled into a chaotic, multi-agency event reaching speeds of 117 mph. The suspect, 46-year-old William George Smolar, fled Niceville police in a black 2020 Kia Optima without headlights. The pursuit spanned two counties and included near-misses with civilians, a detour onto a residential lawn, and a bizarre phone call from the suspect demanding that authorities call off the chase. Smolar was ultimately apprehended by Walton County deputies and faces felony charges for fleeing and eluding, as well as multiple traffic violations.

Christopher Saul 06/15/2026 3:34 pm

Here are Niceville’s goals under new Principal Amy Meyer:

“It really gave me that mindset to say: kids develop at all different rates and all learn in different ways,” Meyer said, reflecting on her early teaching days. That experience etched itself into her philosophy as an educator and now as Niceville High School’s new principal: you never give up on kids. You don’t lock them into who they are at seven, twelve, or fifteen. You keep trying different ways to reach them — and you assume they can grow.

Christopher Saul 06/12/2026 11:21 am

City Manager secures lease agreement for Twin Oaks Park

After years of discussion, the Niceville City Council unanimously approved a resolution to execute a 30-year lease agreement with the U.S. Department of Air Force

Meredith McCalmon 06/10/2026 5:14 pm

Niceville seniors demand return of senior-only hours at pickleball courts

Hundreds of Niceville seniors are petitioning to restore senior-only pickleball hours, citing safety and accessibility concerns after the courts were opened to the public, while city officials argue the change is necessary to address overcrowding and have proposed a compromise.

Meredith McCalmon 06/10/2026 12:43 pm

Fireworks committee makes last-minute plea for 250 anniversary funds to Light up the Bayou

Niceville’s annual Fourth of July fireworks show needs community support to return for another year. Organizers are planning a bigger display to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary, but the event relies entirely on tax-deductible donations rather than tax dollars.

Christopher Saul 06/10/2026 10:54 am

Niceville teen battles flesh-eating bacteria from local waters

In Brief: This is a developing story that Mid Bay News will continue to cover as information is released. What should have been a relaxing

Meredith McCalmon 06/09/2026 5:24 pm