Carla Bayron
Carla Bayron is a general assignment reporter for FOX 13 covering Polk County. She joined the team in September 2023.
Carla is a Sunshine State native who grew up in Palm Harbor. She attended Palm Harbor University High School and graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Sciences Degree in Telecommunications.
After nearly six years reporting throughout the state of Michigan, she's thrilled to be back in the Tampa Bay area and closer to family. She said she will miss the Fall season, the beaches along Lake Michigan, and yes, even the snow, but only around Christmas time!
Throughout her career, Carla has covered numerous high-profile events, including the mass shooting at Oxford High School in Oakland County, MI, the officer-involved shooting death of Patrick Lyoya in Grand Rapids, President Trump's 2016 campaign rally in Ocala, Florida and white nationalist Richard Spencer's speaking appearance at the University of Florida.
In her spare time, Carla enjoys creative writing, playing video games with her husband, and cheering on the Florida Gators and Tampa Bay sports teams. She also loves traveling, eating, and exploring the outdoors.
The latest from Carla Bayron
Lakeland nonprofit opens $6.5M apartment buildings for chronically homeless residents
Gospel Inc. recently opened new permanent apartments in Lakeland for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. It is much more than just a roof over their heads; it is a place to build new skills and find a sense of community.
Pit bull to be euthanized after attacking Winter Haven foster mom
A Winter Haven woman is recovering in the hospital after a vicious dog attack inside her home.
FWC investigating after hundreds of dead fish found in Lakeland's Lake Hollingsworth
It has felt a lot like summer over the past couple of weeks, and it's affecting our local lakes. In Lakeland, hundreds of fish were found dead, prompting the state to investigate the cause.
Lithia 18-year-old could become youngest certified air traffic controller in the US
An 18-year-old from Lithia is ready to work as a certified air traffic controller, potentially making her the youngest in the United States.
Florida Poly prepares for first-ever sports season as athletics program takes shape
Florida Polytechnic University is gearing up for the first season of its new athletics program.
Polk County launches one-year pilot program to combat illegal dumping
Illegal dumping has been on the rise over the past few years in Polk County, and now, the county is testing a customer convenience center to fight the problem.
Lake Wales' Grove Manor public housing complex to be demolished, getting massive affordable housing makeover
A public housing complex in Lake Wales will be demolished and redeveloped into affordable housing.
Sebring police call off Lake Jackson search after missing diver reportedly accounted for and safe
A search for a pair of possible missing divers has been called off after police confirmed there was only one diver who has been accounted for and is safe.
Byron Donalds endorsed by Grady Judd, makes Lakeland campaign stop: Owning the past, protecting the future
U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds, a front-runner for the Republican nomination for governor, is pushing for support in Polk County.
Lakeland city leaders prioritize infrastructure, public safety and police tech upgrades at planning retreat
The city of Lakeland is laying out its strategic plan for the near and distant future.