Bartow fire that burned nearly 200 acres, closed portion of Highway 640 is under investigation

Investigators are trying to figure out what caused a fire to burn nearly 200 acres in Bartow, destroyed a gooseneck trailer and closed a portion of Highway 640 on Tuesday evening.

Gov. DeSantis and Florida health leaders discuss baby formula concerns

Florida leaders are sounding the alarm when it comes to baby formula as Governor Ron DeSantis was joined by First Lady Casey DeSantis, Dr. Joseph Ladapo and Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins in Bartow on Friday to discuss their concerns about its safety.

Sonny’s BBQ fire destroys beloved Bartow restaurant

A fire broke out at Sonny’s BBQ in Bartow early Wednesday morning and destroyed the restaurant. 

Where is Samantha Fiddler? The mystery behind a Canadian mom's disappearance in Polk County

In a case that has puzzled authorities and left a family in anguish, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement is intensifying its investigation into the mysterious disappearance of Samantha Fiddler, a Canadian mother of three.

PCFR Battalion Chief collides with van, multiple people hospitalized

A Polk County Fire Rescue Battalion Chief was responding to an emergency call with lights and sirens before crashing into a van on Saturday morning.

Locals express concerns over proposed 2,000+ housing development in Bartow

Some Bartow residents are raising concerns about a proposed housing development called Emilie Springs, which would include more than 2,000 homes and be built off US Highway 60.

Florida DEP, Mosaic meet with neighbors over proposed underground wastewater wells

At a community meeting Tuesday night, neighbors could learn more about Mosaic’s proposal to drill two test wells that could eventually be used to inject treated wastewater deep underground.

Polk County elementary teacher accused of hitting student

A Polk County elementary school teacher was arrested for hitting a student, according to officials with the school district. 

Sheriff Grady Judd dons $50K in ‘drip’ seized during illegal drug trafficking bust that nabbed 32

On Friday, Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd wore a thick gold chain around his neck, a matching bracelet and waved around a gun during a press conference to make a point about the dangers of drug trafficking.