On the weekend, we present a week in review of the top stories and headlines from across Florida. Here's a roundup of some of the biggest and quirkiest stories across the state. You can also find your local Patch and catch up on those stories by clicking here.
Cop Charged In Crash That Killed 6-Year-Old Tampa Girl: FL Troopers
A Temple Terrace police officer was driving more than 100 mph before a crash that killed a Tampa child, FL troopers said.
FL Teacher Pay Lowest In The U.S. For The Third Year In A Row: Study
Florida teachers earn the lowest average salary in the U.S. for the third consecutive year, a National Education Association study shows.
Alligator Attack On Cow Prompts Closure Of Central FL Conservation Area
A central FL conservation area is closed after an alligator attacked a cow, trying to drag it into the water, officials said.
Remains Of Second Missing USF Student Identified: Hillsborough Sheriff
The remains of a second missing USF doctoral student, Nahida Bristy, were identified using DNA, the Hillsborough County sheriff said.
Former FL Gov. Charlie Crist Officially Running For St. Pete Mayor
Six candidates, now including former FL Gov. Crist, are challenging incumbent Ken Welch for the role of St. Pete mayor.
Sarasota County School Board Sues Tax Collector For $2M: Reports
The Sarasota County School Board is suing the tax collector for keeping more than $2M in taxpayer funds meant for schools, reports said.
Sharkapalooza Festival To Celebrate Art, Marine Life At Clearwater Park
This year's Sharkapalooza festival, centered on art, education, community and ocean conservation, will take place at Coachman Park.
Sailor Whose Remains Were Found 81 Years After His WWII Death To Be Buried In FL
A World War II sailor who disappeared when his plane crashed during a combat mission will be buried with military honors in FL.
The Only U.S. Beach Named Among Top 50 In The World Is In FL
Just one U.S. beach, lauded for its powdery white sand, made “The World’s 50 Best Beaches” list for 2026, and it’s in FL.
FL Taco Bell Employee Accused of Shooting at Customers Over Drink Dispute
A FL Taco Bell employee faces aggravated assault charges for shooting at customers after one filled a water cup with soda, reports said.
PSTA Advances Tampa Bay Ferry Plan To Buy, Renovate 2 Boats
PSTA plans to use a $4.8 million federal grant to buy and renovate two vessels for the Tampa Bay Ferry between St. Pete and Tampa.
U.S. Coast Guard Cutter ‘Tampa’ Wreckage Found Off U.K. Coast After 100+ Years
The wreckage of the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter “Tampa,” which sank during World War I, was found off the U.K. coast, officials said.
FL Legislature Approves DeSantis Redistricting Map Designed For GOP Midterm Boost
A redistricting map approved by the FL legislature is expected to create four new Republican seats in the state.
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