Deputies were able to apprehend Al Johnson Jr., 35, following an intense pursuit.
Crime & Safety
8 months ago
High-speed 100 MPH chase in Marion County captured on dashcam | WATCH

A routine traffic stop near Time Nightclub turned into a dangerous pursuit as Al Johnson Jr. led Marion County deputies on a high-speed chase, reaching over 100 MPH before his dramatic arrest.

State
8 months ago
DeSantis unveils 2025-26 budget to boost Florida’s conservation, boating, and outdoor recreation

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis’ new budget plan invests in fish and wildlife conservation, public boat ramps, artificial reefs, and law enforcement to enhance outdoor recreation and economic growth.

Explore historical exhibits at the Marion County 181st Anniversary Festival on March 29, 2025, at McPherson Governmental Campus in Ocala, Fla. The annual event features food, entertainment, and interactive displays showcasing the county’s rich history.
Community
8 months ago
Celebrate 181 years of Marion County at the annual community festival

Experience a day of history, food, entertainment, and local exhibits at McPherson Governmental Campus on March 29, 2025.

Robert Howie, a retired Marion County Sheriff’s Office deputy, prepares for his 1,000-mile cycling journey from Ocala to Key West and back in support of The Arc Marion. The ride, scheduled for Feb. 17-28, aims to raise funds and awareness for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Local
8 months ago
Howie’s Ride for Inclusion: Robert Howie’s 1,000-mile cycling journey to support The Arc Marion

Retired Deputy Robert Howie embarks on a 1,000-mile bike ride from Ocala to Key West and back, raising funds and awareness for The Arc Marion’s mission of inclusion.

Fire rescue workers show Leadership Ocala Marion Class XXXVIII how procedures such as extinguishing fires are done.
Local
8 months ago
PHOTOS | Marion County Fire Rescue hosts Fire Experience Day for Leadership Ocala Marion members

Marion County Fire Rescue gave leaders from Leadership Ocala Marion a crash course on rescue procedures during Fire Experience Day.

MCFR Paramedic Deb Bush (left) with her mother Patricia McWharton (right), who knitted the blankets and hats.
Local
8 months ago
Blanket delivery: Mother of fire rescue paramedic knits baby hats and blankets for department

Noticing a shortage of baby hats, MCFR Paramedic Deb Bush’s mother, Patricia McWhorter, hand-knitted a fresh batch for newborns in need.

Local
8 months ago
Stay at the scene: Florida’s hit-and-run campaign highlights legal and safety consequences

Florida’s FLHSMV urges drivers to stay at the scene of traffic crashes, emphasizing legal penalties, safety risks, and the importance of accountability in its annual hit-and-run awareness campaign

Sarah Jacobs, a ninth and tenth-grade English teacher at West Port High School, was selected as the Marion County Teacher of the Year at the 35th Annual Golden Apple Gala at the Reilly Center for the Arts on Feb. 1, 2025.
Education
8 months ago
Golden Apple Gala 2025: Marion County honors top educators at prestigious event

The 35th Annual Golden Apple Gala honored Marion County’s most dedicated educators, naming Sarah Jacobs as the 2025 Teacher of the Year and celebrating the outstanding contributions of teachers who shape students’ futures.

Local
8 months ago
Florida gas prices drop as crude oil costs decline, bringing relief to drivers

Pump prices in Florida fell 15 cents last week as crude oil prices declined, with the cheapest gas in Ocala reported at $2.74 per gallon.

Weather Updates
8 months ago
WORKWEEK WEATHER: Ocala enjoys summer-like heat despite groundhog’s winter prediction

While Punxsutawny Phil forecasted six more weeks of winter, Ocala is experiencing unseasonably warm temperatures, with highs soaring into the 80s this week.