LIVE UPDATES: Prosecution rests, Defendant plans to testify in Airman Manslaughter trial:
The manslaughter trial of former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran began with opening statements, witness testimony and bodycam footage from the 2024 shooting death of Senior Airman Roger Fortson. Prosecutors presented evidence about the events leading up to the shooting, while the defense maintains Duran acted in self-defense.
Crestview Olympic Medalist Mia Manganello talks post-racing career at Wal Mart Grand Opening
Two-time Olympic medalist speed skater Mia Manganello returned home to Crestview for Walmart’s grand opening, reflecting on how her community and Walmart supported her athletic dream. Now, Manganello is giving back through hospitality and volunteer work while advising aspiring young athletes to dream big and build strong local support networks.
Petition of man convicted of 2022 Niceville murder fails
One of the men convicted in a 2022 Niceville double homicide failed in his attempt to appeal his conviction through a motion for post-conviction relief. Isaiah Lamar Luna, 23, filed the motion from Graceville Correctional Facility following his conviction for third-degree felony murder with a firearm.
Meet Judy Forrester: A Niceville Good Neighbor
Judy Forrester has spent the past five years helping the Niceville Senior Center grow while building lasting relationships with its members and volunteers. Her dedication, enthusiasm and commitment to going above and beyond earned her the September Ryan Cabaniss Niceville Good Neighbor Award.
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
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.
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.
