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
Lake Wales senior community celebrates rejection of proposed sand mine
A senior community in Lake Wales is celebrating because a proposed sand mine will not be constructed next door.
Lake Wales senior community rallies against proposed sand mine
Retirees and residents of a senior community are saying "NO" to a proposed sand mine next door.
FDOT alters highway plans in Polk County — advocates worried rare plant habitats remain at risk
The Florida Department of Transportation altered its proposed corridor plans for a tollway in northeastern Polk County; however, plant conservation advocates are still worried it would threaten a rare species' habitat.
Retail stores kick off holidays with exclusive deals, AI assistance tools make online shopping easier
Friday is retail's biggest day of the year—to kick off the holiday shopping season.
Golden Ridge Groves opens citrus U-pick showcasing local produce
A citrus grove in Polk County has been working with a major university to fight against citrus greening, a disease that has plagued growers all across the state, and now they're bringing that innovation straight to the consumer.
Descent into the past: City of Mulberry unearths cold war era bomb shelter
Two weeks ago, a bomb shelter from the Cold War era was discovered off Route 60 in Mulberry.
Morning fog causes hours-long delay for cruise ship passengers at Port Tampa Bay
It's that time of year when the fog rolls in over the bay and lingers in the morning, causing quite a mess for cruise ship passengers. Two cruises were delayed getting into Port Tampa Bay, which caused a delay for passengers getting on and off the boats.
Grady Judd: Former realtor association CEO accused of stealing more than $81K
Jennifer Garula-Mers, the former East Polk County Association of Realtors CEO, has been arrested on grand theft charges.
Talbot House proposes new site on E. Memorial Blvd., still draws opposition from residents, business owners
Talbot House proposes new site on E. Memorial Blvd., still draws opposition from residents, business owners.
Auburndale unveils Lake Ariana Park, celebrating its rich 'Mac's Beach's Legacy!'
The city of Auburndale is celebrating the opening of the brand-new Lake Ariana Park and Civic Center.