Emergency crews respond to a multi-vehicle crash involving three semi-trucks and a passenger vehicle on southbound Interstate 75 at mile marker 351 in Ocala, Fla., on Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025.
Local
8 months ago
Multi-truck crash on I-75 in Ocala causes major traffic delays and fuel spill

Three semi-trucks and a passenger vehicle were involved in a collision on Interstate 75, leading to hazardous spills, road closures, and hospitalizations.

Molly, center, poses with Marion County Commissioners along with SPCA of Ocala Board Members. Courtesy: SPCA of Ocala
State
8 months ago
Florida bill would create searchable database of animal abusers

“When I heard it, I just started crying — I’m still crying,” said Lilly Baron, president of the SPCA of Ocala, praising a proposed Florida bill that would create a public database of convicted animal abusers.

The Ocala Police Department released mugshots of Blayze Jurrien White, 22, Fredrick Bernard Lowe, 21, and Zayshawn Lee Lamar Webb, 18, who were arrested in connection to the June 2024 murder of Derrick Brown Jr. in Ocala, FL.
Crime & Safety
8 months ago
Three suspects arrested in connection to 2024 Ocala murder, police say

Ocala police arrest three men accused of fatally shooting 24-year-old Derrick Brown Jr. inside a home on NE 8th Terrace in June 2024.

Community
8 months ago
Marion County Commission reviews key changes to animal control ordinance

Proposed amendments address no-kill shelter status, pet licensing, and new tethering regulations in ongoing public hearings.

A sign with fancy filigreed, and lettering, with a digital sign in the middle, sitting on top of a stone support, with a hedge buffer to the front, side and back, with a road to the left and a field and tree line in the back, cars, and light poles to the right.
Local
8 months ago
Ocala International Airport seeks public input on master plan update at upcoming meeting

Community members invited to open-house event on Feb. 19 to discuss future growth and development of Ocala International Airport.

Guests celebrate in style at the World of Red Party, an elegant evening of fashion, entertainment, and philanthropy.
Entertainment
8 months ago
Grandview World Nights to host prestigious Draft Horse World Series & World of Red Party

Experience the power and elegance of Clydesdales, Belgians, and Percherons at the Draft Horse World Series, featuring elite competitions and an exclusive Grandview World of Red Party at the World Equestrian Center in Ocala.

Ocala-based Amanda Steege and the Belgian Warmblood gelding Laffite de Muze have enjoyed great success. Laffitte de Muze was the USEF High Performance Hunter of the Year.
Equine
8 months ago
Laffite de Muze shines in $80,000 International Hunter Derby at World Equestrian Center

Amanda Steege and her Belgian Warmblood claim victory in Ocala’s premier hunter competition under the lights.

Megan Taylor as Jerusha Abbott and James R. Taylor III as Jervis Pendleton bring wit, charm, and heartfelt emotion to the stage in Daddy Long Legs, live at Ocala Civic Theatre from February 6-23.
Entertainment
8 months ago
Daddy Long Legs musical brings romance and mystery to Ocala Civic Theatre

Experience the heartwarming tale of Daddy Long Legs, a captivating musical filled with romance, mystery, and self-discovery, live at the Ocala Civic Theatre from Feb. 6-23.

Education
8 months ago
Marion County schools to participate in statewide tornado drill

Florida schools will take part in a statewide tornado drill on Feb. 5 at 10 a.m., led by the National Weather Service to enhance severe weather preparedness.

Jose Francisco Rivera, 57, is shown in a booking photo provided by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. Rivera was arrested on Feb. 3, 2025, in connection with an armed robbery and stabbing at a convenience store in Ocala, FL. He is being held without bond.
Crime & Safety
8 months ago
Suspect Jose Francisco Rivera accused of stabbing victim during robbery, held without bond

Marion County Sheriff’s Office detectives arrested Jose Francisco Rivera leading to his detention without bond.