The E-Bike Escape That Ended With a Crash
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Fort Walton Beach Streets Get a Makeover as Resurfacing Work Begins
Five Fort Walton Beach streets are scheduled for resurfacing beginning Aug. 10. Work is expected to take one to two days at each location and will generally occur between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. Residents are asked to remove vehicles and other obstructions from the work areas during construction.
A Stunning Wildlife Recovery: Hotdog and Donatello’s Journey Back to the Gulf
The Gulfarium CARE Center released two rehabilitated loggerhead sea turtles, Hotdog and Donatello, at Inlet Beach after both recovered from fishing‑hook injuries. Crowds gathered to watch the pair return to the Gulf, marking another successful rescue effort supported by the St. Joe Community Foundation and local wildlife partners.
Summer Sentinel Sting Nets 9 Suspects in Okaloosa County
Investigators with the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and federal partners arrested nine men during “Operation Summer Sentinel,” a four‑day undercover sting targeting adults who believed they were meeting minors for sex. A registered sex offender on pretrial release was also arrested for violating his conditions. Officials say the operation highlights growing online risks to children.
Niceville PD nab the (alleged) Turkey Creek Streaker
A 46-year-old Milton man was arrested on August 6, 2026, following a public indecent exposure incident at Turkey Creek in Niceville. Bradley Patrick was taken into custody in Santa Rosa County on an active Niceville Police Department warrant and is currently awaiting extradition to Okaloosa County to face charges.
Niceville’s Lacrosse Future Takes Shape At Free August 15 Clinic
Niceville’s growing lacrosse community is coming together August 15 for a free youth clinic at Twin Oaks. The Florida Raptors will hold inaugural tryouts while professional lacrosse player Myles Jones and Navy lacrosse legend Gary Quackenbush lead drills. The event aims to introduce more local children to lacrosse and grow the sport.
Defense Makes Immunity Push as Judge Weighs Fate of Duran Murder Case
Former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran concluded his bid for Stand Your Ground immunity Wednesday as defense attorneys argued prosecutors failed to overcome evidence that the fatal shooting of Roger Fortson was legally justified. The judge ordered additional legal briefs before deciding whether the case will move forward.
Duran gives emotional testimony in Hurlburt airman murder dismissal hearing
Former Okaloosa County Deputy Eddie Duran took the stand during Day 2 of his dismissal hearing in the shooting death of Airman Roger Fortson. Defense experts testified that Duran’s use of deadly force was reasonable, while enhanced body-camera audio and questions about law enforcement tactics added new layers to the proceedings.
Eglin Fighter Jets Set for Training Flights Aug. 4-6
Residents near Eglin Air Force Base may hear fighter aircraft overhead during nighttime hours Aug. 4-6. The 60th Fighter Squadron will conduct training missions between 8 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. Eglin officials said the nighttime flights are required for training operations and may result in increased aircraft noise.
E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center Opens Fridays to All
The E.O. Wilson Biophilia Center in Freeport will open to the public every Friday, year-round, beginning September 4. Visitors can explore trails, exhibits and ambassador animal habitats while taking part in animal encounters, hikes, feedings and other activities at the environmental education center on Nokuse Plantation.
