'Lives are at stake': Tampa police urge gun owners to lock up firearms after 12-year-old shot and killed

TPD's Interim Police chief Lee Bercaw said a lot of these tragedies can be avoided if gun owners were more responsible in locking up their weapons. He showed off a free gunlock Monday that the department is offering to any gun owner that wants one.

Florida Museum of Photographic Arts will begin new era in Ybor City's Gas Worx district

An old building is getting a new purpose, and it could signal the beginning of a new era in Ybor City. Millionaire developer Daryl Shaw has plans to transform the area with a new development called Gas Worx. 

Child killed, teen injured in Tampa shooting, police say

The Tampa Police Department is investigating a shooting that killed a 12-year-old and injured a 14-year-old Sunday afternoon. 

Future ballet stars take center stage at the Straz for the ‘American Idol of ballet’

Three hundred ballet dancers from across the country were in the spotlight at the Straz Center this weekend - showcasing their best routines in the 'Youth America Grand Prix' regional competition.

Man shot, killed by relative in Riverview, deputies say

A homicide investigation is underway in Hillsborough County after deputies say a man was shot and killed Saturday night in Riverview.

Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival promotes culture and diversity

Runners laced up their sneakers and pounded the pavement Saturday to kick off the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival. 

TSA: Traveler tries to sneak four-foot ‘emotional support’ snake through security at Tampa airport

Snakes on a plane? Not at Tampa International Airport. Transportation Security Administration agents at Tampa International Airport made a shocking discovery when they found a slithery stowaway trying to get through security. 

Annual Gibtown Bike Fest expected to draw in 10,000 bikers over the weekend

If you hear a rumble this weekend, it may be coming from Gibsonton. The annual Gibtown Bike Fest just rolled into town and opened Friday. 

Biden administration may ban 'exploitative practice' of non-compete clauses

The Biden Administration is proposing to ban non-compete clauses, which impact workers of many stripes to the tune of 30 million people nationwide.

Universal Orlando proposes building commuter train station connecting to Brightline, Orlando airport

Universal Orlando wants to build a new SunRail station in the International Drive area to connect the heart of the city's tourism industry with Orlando International Airport and Brightline — which has plans to extend its higher-speed train service to Tampa. Once complete, it would connect 70% of Florida's population.

New coffee shop to open in South Tampa with an inclusive mission

A new coffee shop that provides jobs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities will soon open in South Tampa.

Tampa city council pushes changes to nomination process after TPD Chief Mary O'Connor's resignation

Tampa city councilors are pushing for changes to the way top city officials are confirmed for their positions. This comes after a contentious nomination and tenure of Tampa Police Chief Mary O'Connor, who recently resigned after flashing her badge during a traffic stop in Pinellas County.

Hillsborough detention deputy was bringing pot brownies into jail for inmates, sheriff says

A Hillsborough County detention deputy who was sworn into his role over a year ago was caught bringing "cannabis-laced brownies" into the detention facility, according to the sheriff.

Influx of starving horses prompts Plant City rescue group to ask community for help

As many people deal with the impacts of inflation, animal owners are facing tough decisions. RVR Horse Rescue in Plant City is seeing the result, with an increase in calls for help with starving horses.

Violent crime fell in Tampa in 2022, police say

Tampa police and the US attorney’s office are highlighting their efforts to stop violent crime.