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.
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
AFSOC leader Anthony Green found guilty of CSAM possession; dishonorably discharged
The trial of AFSOC Chief Master Sergeant Anthony Green ended with guilty verdicts on charges of indecent recording and possession, viewing and production of child sexual abuse material. Green was found not guilty of obstruction of justice. Sentencing is scheduled to resume at 1:30 p.m.
Defense presents its case in trial of Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Green
The defense rested its case in the court-martial of Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Green, calling military leaders and family members to testify about his character, work schedule and alleged parenting concerns. The judge rejected the defense’s proposed affirmative defense based on parental rights. Closing arguments are expected tomorrow.
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.
Proud Moment: Fort Walton Beach Senior Named National Merit Semifinalist
Fort Walton Beach High School senior Keira Foy has been named a Semifinalist in the 2027 National Merit®Scholarship Program. Foy is among more than 16,000 Semifinalists nationwide selected from more than 1.2million students who entered the competition by taking the 2025 PSAT/NMSQT® in the fall of their junioryear. The Semifinalists represent less than one percent […]
Fort Walton Beach Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Meth, Cocaine, and Fentanyl
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. — A 40-year-old Fort Walton Beach man has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possessing methamphetamine, cocaine and fentanyl with the intent to distribute, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida. Elliot Maurice Bell was sentenced Wednesday, Sept. 2, following […]
Riptide CardCon Brings 210+ Vendors to Fort Walton Beach
Riptide CardCon is bringing more than 210 vendor tables to Fort Walton Beach on October 18. The free event at the Rigdon Center will feature Pokémon TCG, sports cards, memorabilia, local shops and food trucks. Founded by an Air Force veteran, the show will connect collectors, vendors and hobbyists across the Emerald Coast.
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.
