Florida Polytechnic students create wearable prototype for controlling skateboard with hand gestures

If you own a smartwatch, you can consider yourself a consumer of wearable technology. The concept has grown in popularity in recent years and now three students at Florida Polytechnic University are getting major funding for their own wearable prototype. 

On anniversary of Korean War battle, Polk County honors legacy of Gen. Van Fleet

General James Van Fleet was in charge of American and other United Nations forces during the Battle of Kapyong, which started 70 years ago on April 23, 1951.

Mother and baby die in crash with train in Frostproof

A young mother and her 4-month-old died in a crash Thursday afternoon when the car they were riding in was hit by an Amtrak train in Polk County, the sheriff's office said.

Brain training research participants needed for dementia-prevention study

For the last three years, researchers at the University of South Florida have been analyzing the effectiveness of computer games on the brains of older adults and now they need more participants for a study that aims to prove its effectiveness.

Polk father charged after leaving gun in son's backpack

A Lakeland father is facing charges after a handgun was found in a kindergarten student's backpack.

Bay Area activists, leaders, citizens reflect on justice after Chauvin trial verdicts

Just less than a year after the world watched videos posted online of George Floyd telling Minneapolis Police Officer Derek Chauvin "I can’t breathe," citizens, community leaders, and law enforcement are reacting to guilty verdicts in Chauvin’s murder trial.

No appointment necessary for Polk County COVID-19 vaccinations

Polk County residents no longer have to wait for their appointment to get a COVID-19 shot at a Health Department vaccination site. From now on, it is first-come, first-served.

Gov. DeSantis signs anti-riot bill imposing harsher criminal penalties on violent protesters

Backed by law enforcement from all over Central Florida at the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, the governor signed his controversial anti-rioting bill into law on Monday. The measure is meant to stiffen penalties on violent protesters.

No injuries reported after plane lands on Polk Parkway

A pilot and passenger are safe after landing a plane on the grass shoulder of the Polk Parkway near exit 4 Thursday afternoon, according to the Lakeland Police Department.

For Dugout Mug inventor, major-league dream turns into the American dream

Randall Thompson never made it to the major leagues, but this former Toronto minor leaguer's idea has. Dugout Mugs popped into Randall's head while sitting on the bench coaching at his alma mater, Florida Tech. 

Valrico man killed in three-vehicle crash, deputies say

Polk County deputies said a 63-year-old man from Valrico was killed following a crash in Lakeland.

It’s back: Sun ‘n Fun makes its return to Lakeland

After a cancellation last year and a postponement this year, Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo organizers are making up for lost time.

Science teacher brings Florida aesthetic to jewelry making

An elementary school teacher is using her love for science -- and her dog -- to create beautiful pieces inspired by Florida's natural beauty.

Father of 2-year-old beating victim wants harsher charges for suspect

Jayden Hines, 2, was pronounced dead at Lakeland Regional Medical Center early Friday morning after suffering blunt-force trauma to multiple areas of his body, according to police.  

Sunday morning storms cause damage throughout Tampa Bay

People are cleaning up after strong storms Sunday morning caused damage throughout Tampa Bay. In some areas, strong winds tore off roofs and knocked down trees and powerlines.

Wrong-way driver arrested for DUI after almost crashing into state trooper

Efrain Caamano Fernandez is facing DUI charges after nearly hitting a state trooper head-on while traveling the wrong way on US-98 just north of Van Fleet Drive early Sunday morning.