Congress OKs More Than $590M for Panhandle Military Construction Projects
One Panhandle base is set to receive more than $219 million under the new defense bill. See the full breakdown of projects Congress just approved. ⬇️
Florida Set to Execute Okaloosa County Serial Killer
Frank Walls, convicted of five Okaloosa County murders, is scheduled for execution tonight after courts rejected his final appeals.
Okaloosa County Corrections Earns Third State Accreditation
Okaloosa County’s Department of Corrections earned Florida Corrections Accreditation with 3rd Excelsior Status, marking continued excellence in correctional standards.
CCA Florida and Okaloosa County Team Up for Redfish Release
Destin-Fort Walton Beach and CCA Florida released 25,000 juvenile redfish into Cinco Bayou to boost declining populations, improve ecosystems, and support local anglers.
Deputies Probe Possible Link Between Fort Walton Shootings
Deputies Probe Possible Link Between Fort Walton Shootings Staff Reports December 16, 2025 5:24 pm Crime, Fort Walton Beach, Okaloosa County In Brief: Deputies responded to a shooting on Fenwick Drive, where multiple rounds were fired at a pedestrian who was not located. Several nearby homes and properties were struck by gunfire during the incident. […]
Crestview Councilmember Ryan Bullard Resigns, City Seeks Replacement
Crestview City Councilmember Ryan Bullard has announced his resignation effective Dec. 31, 2025, citing professional, personal, and health-related considerations. City officials have opened the application process to fill the vacant Precinct 2 seat through the remainder of Bullard’s term, ending in November 2026.
NAACP Pushes Back Against DeSantis Redistricting
The NAACP of Okaloosa County opposes Gov. DeSantis’ redistricting plan, citing threats to minority voting power and fair representation.
$241M Contract Expands Joint Strike Missile Production
The U.S. Air Force has awarded a $240.9 million contract to Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace for production of the next batch of Joint Strike Missiles, expanding procurement of the long-range precision weapon designed for the F-35 fighter jet.
Gunfire Erupts on Dates Avenue, Two Injured Inside Fort Walton Beach Home
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an early morning shooting on Dates Avenue in Fort Walton Beach after unknown suspects fired multiple rounds into a home, injuring two people inside.
Red Shoe Party Returns to Support Foster Children in Okaloosa and Walton Counties
The Red Shoe Party returns Jan. 24 in Seagrove Beach, raising funds to support foster children in Okaloosa and Walton counties.
