After surviving a catastrophic crash that left his vehicle crushed between two trees, Marion County resident Max Gagnon reunited this week with the emergency responders and hospital staff who saved his life.
Ocala’s workweek (Aug 25–29) will be warm and humid, featuring repeated chances for afternoon thunderstorms. Prepare for highs near 90 °F each day, with frequent late-day wet weather.
From crime alerts to new dining spots and Ocala’s ties to Hollywood, here are the 10 stories that had residents talking this week.
A fatal crash has closed all northbound lanes of U.S. 441 near the Alachua County line. Florida Highway Patrol is redirecting traffic as the investigation continues.
A routine traffic stop in Bronson uncovered more than just a speeding violation, leading to the arrest of a local man now facing multiple felony drug and weapons charges.
Spruce Creek Station #30 is one of Marion County’s busiest fire stations, answering nearly 9,000 calls last year while covering 16 square miles and supporting surrounding communities.
Marion County Fire Rescue (MCFR) has been selected as one of just 80 departments nationwide to participate in a national field assessment of the Qwake C-THRU Helmet Mounted System. The groundbreaking technology, developed in collaboration with the Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate, is designed to give firefighters enhanced visibility and situational awareness in smoke-filled, low-visibility environments.
Ocala braces for a weekend of heat, humidity, and afternoon thunderstorms from Friday through Sunday. Temperatures will remain in the upper 80s, with daily rain and storm chances—so stay weather‑aware.
A 20-year-old Ocala man survived a potentially fatal gunshot wound thanks to a gold cross necklace — and the quick response of HCA Florida Ocala Hospital’s trauma team.
Law enforcement is searching for 16-year-old Makenzie Kepka, who was last seen Saturday in Deland. The Lake County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help locating the missing teen.
