HISTORY: Hurricane Eloise devastates the Emerald Coast after killing dozens
In 1975, Hurricane Eloise struck the Emerald Coast as a powerful category three storm, causing widespread destruction. From wiping out the newly built Okaloosa Island Pier to destroying buildings as far inland as Niceville, the storm left a lasting impact. Explore the history of this devastating event and its aftermath.
Trial of former deputy charged in the killing of Hurlburt airman may start Monday. This is what’s happened so far:
The manslaughter trial of former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran is expected to begin following two years of legal delays, procedural motions, and emotional testimony. Duran faces charges in the fatal May 2024 shooting of Senior Airman Roger Fortson inside Fortson’s Fort Walton Beach apartment.
Foundation Awards First-Ever Grant to Help Freeport Woman Keep Her Home
The Shine Forward Foundation, a Freeport-based 501(c)(3) public charity, has awarded its inaugural $1,000 grant to assist a local woman on the verge of losing her home. Selected from 20 applicants facing housing insecurity, the grant provided critical financial assistance, bridging the gap to help keep her family safely housed.
HISTORY: 1898 fire ignites new future for DeFuniak Springs
In 1898, a devastating fire swept through downtown DeFuniak Springs, charring 22 wooden structures on Baldwin Avenue. Yet, this catastrophe sparked transformation. Forced to rebuild, merchants turned to durable brick, creating the safer, denser downtown we recognize today. This shift helped solidify the town’s future, leading to official incorporation and essential new municipal services.
Showdown on Hollywood: County orders Fort Walton Beach to rip down unpermitted speed cameras
A months-long title search determined two Fort Walton Beach school-zone speed cameras on Hollywood Boulevard were installed in Okaloosa County’s right of way without permits. County commissioners voted unanimously to order their removal within a week and authorized road transfer negotiations strictly conditioned on a permanent prohibition of speed-zone cameras
HISTORY: Drought-stricken, Floridians win a pyrrhic victory at Munfordville
On September 17, 1862, 16,000 Confederate troops surrounded a Union garrison at Munfordville, Kentucky, securing a tactical victory that stood as the largest surrender of American forces at the time. Yet, for the exhausted men of the First and Third Florida Regiments, this hollow triumph merely presaged the campaign’s ultimate, bloody decline.
Niceville Fire Department pushes in sleek new black fire truck
The Niceville Fire Department welcomed its newest fire engine during a traditional push-in ceremony on Thursday. The distinctive black engine is the first of three new vehicles acquired after city leaders opted for a $1 million engine, rescue truck, and brush truck instead of a single $2.2 million tower truck.
Okaloosa commissioners reject 12-month data center moratorium 3-2 after hours of public opposition
Okaloosa County commissioners rejected a proposed 12-month moratorium on data centers in a 3-2 vote following passionate public opposition at Tuesday’s meeting. Despite strong calls from residents for an outright ban, the county will move forward with drafting regulations for data center development over the next 60 days.
Destin councilman arrested on felony theft charges
on September 11 following felony grand theft allegations. Braden is accused of taking money for an unlicensed home repair project, partially demolishing a deck, and abandoning it. A court hearing is scheduled for October 15, 2026.
Judge denies controversial dismissal motions in manslaughter case
Circuit Judge William F. Stone has denied a defense motion to recuse himself, clearing the path for the manslaughter trial of former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran to begin on September 28, 2026. Duran faces charges following the May 2024 fatal shooting of 23-year-old Hurlburt Field Airman Roger Fortson.
