Motorcyclist killed in crash with FHP cruiser, tractor-trailer on I-4 in Polk County

A motorcyclist was killed Monday night in a crash on Interstate 4 in Polk County involving an FHP trooper and a tractor-trailer, the Florida Highway Patrol said.

Polk deputies searching for Texas man accused of murdering 74-year-old aunt who adopted him

A $3,000 reward is being offered for anyone who can help Polk County deputies locate and arrest 39-year-old Aroldo Paz, an illegal immigrant who allegedly murdered his aunt in Polk City.

Sexual misconduct allegation leads Southeastern University athletic trainer to relinquish license

The head athletic trainer for Southeastern University in Lakeland has voluntarily relinquished his license following a sexual misconduct complaint filed nearly a year ago by a 23-year-old volleyball player.

The history of Cypress Gardens, Florida's first theme park

The Sunshine State’s major tourism industry began with a 'Good Housekeeping' article back in the 1930s. Today, Cypress Gardens lives on as part of LEGOLAND Florida.

Peppa Pig theme park in Winter Haven sets opening date for Feb. 24

There is an opening date now for the Winter Haven theme park dedicated to the popular character, Peppa Pig: Feb. 24, 2022.

Insanity considered for ex-Marine accused of murdering Lakeland family

An insanity defense is being considered for an ex-Marine accused of killing four members of a Polk County family -- including an infant who was found in his mother's arms -- last month.

60 international educators hired to fill teacher shortages in Polk County

Polk County Schools hired 60 teachers from all over the world to help fill vacancies they couldn't otherwise. It's part of a teacher exchange program where educators are provided housing and employed under J-1 visas.

Submerged car found in Lake Martha may belong to missing man

Police in Winter Haven say a car spotted underwater in Lake Martha matches the description of one belonging to a man missing since August.

Woman 'near death' following I-4 shootout between motorcycle gangs in Polk; boyfriend arrested, sheriff says

After midnight, a shooting broke out between two motorcycle gangs along a stretch of highway in Polk County. One of the two who were shot will likely not survive, said Sheriff Grady Judd.

Polk County law enforcement honor officers who served to the end

Each year, Polk County honors law enforcement officers who passed during the last year. After last year's ceremony was canceled and this year's was delayed due to the pandemic, two more names were added to the memorial.

Lakeland firefighters relieved to work less overtime as COVID-19 surge slows

Lakeland firefighters, like many of their brethren, are working fewer hours these days. It's a welcome reprieve from the long shifts and overtime they endured during the recent surge in COVID-19 cases due to the delta variant of the virus.

Central Florida farmers pull up roots to make room for massive warehouses

County Line Road is a choice spot for many big businesses because it is sandwiched between I-4 and State Road 60, two main arteries in the state. Giant distribution centers are replacing farm fields.

'On-the-job disagreement' led to Davenport triple murder, sheriff says

Sheriff Grady Judd on Monday identified the three out-of-state contractors killed over the weekend in Davenport, allegedly by an angry co-worker.

3 killed after disgruntled employee goes on rampage in Polk County, sheriff says

According to the Polk County Sheriff's Office, three people have now died after an attack in unincorporated Davenport. Deputies say they now have a suspect in custody.