Jury Sends Destin Man to Prison for Life
A jury has convicted Jerrish Stephens of second-degree murder in the 2021 stabbing death of Gregory Lacey outside a Destin bar, resulting in a life sentence.
Decorated Fighter Pilot Charged in a Shocking China Training “Betrayal”
A former U.S. Air Force fighter pilot and F-35 instructor has been arrested and charged with illegally training Chinese military aviators.
Okaloosa and Walton Students Win Big at Regional STEM
Okaloosa and Walton students showcased innovation and scientific excellence at the 2026 East Panhandle Regional Science and Engineering Fair, earning top honors and state finalist spots.
Road Rage Attack Ends in Arrest After Lengthy Investigation
Fort Walton Beach Police have arrested a 21-year-old man months after a suspected Halloween night road rage shooting.
Destin Vacation Abuse Ends in a Life Sentence
An Okaloosa County jury convicted Justin Andrew Busby of sexually battering a 10-year-old child, leading to a life sentence in state prison.
Tough but Necessary: Okaloosa Will Close Two “Outstanding” Schools
Okaloosa School Board votes unanimously to close Mary Esther and Longwood Elementary amid enrollment decline and budget challenges, with rezoning ahead.
Walton County Rolls Out Free Tram Service
Walton County Tourism will launch expanded free Beach Tram routes on March 1, connecting municipal parking lots to regional beach accesses in an effort to ease congestion and improve public access.
Firefighters Hold the Line at Choctaw Plaza Fire
A three-alarm commercial fire at Choctaw Plaza destroyed a Rent-A-Center Monday night, sending heavy smoke through multiple adjacent businesses.
19-Count Federal Lawsuit Alleges Reckless Force Caused Veteran’s Heart Attack
A Fort Walton Beach veteran files a 19-count federal lawsuit alleging arrest triggered a heart attack while in police custody.
Drone Espionage Act Hits Home on the Emerald Coast
Sen. Ashley Moody’s Drone Espionage Act advanced out of committee Thursday, targeting unauthorized drone surveillance of U.S. military installations — including airspace over parts of the Emerald Coast.
