News Update for 2/19/24
Highlands County Sheriff’s detectives continue the investigation into the death of Darron “Darryl” Taylor. The 61-year-old Sebring man was found shot and killed early Sunday morning in his home on Muriel Avenue by Emergency Medical Services workers, responding to a call of “no vitals.”
Authorities now are looking for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrators. Tipsters can either call the Highlands County Sheriff’s office or the confidential Crimestoppers Hotline at 1-800-400-TIPS (8477).
Sebring officials will be shutting down the Historic Circle today for a rally, to hear whether or not they got the nod to be the target of an HGTV television show, that would give the city a makeover.
Although officially unnamed, it is speculated that it could be for an upcoming episode of “Hometown Takeover.” In the past, hosts of that show have come in and revamped Fort Morgan, Colorado and Wetumpka,Alabama.
Reportedly, the choice is down to two municipalities. The official announcement is planned for 2:30 this afternoon.
A couple of Sebring women have been arrested in connection with a string of mail thefts. 29-year-old Kimberly Michelle Shrewsbury and 35-year-old Stephanie Hope Spurlock have been charged with 30 counts of possession of personal identificaton without consent.
Highlands County sheriff’s officials say the investigation was aided by residents who provided photos and video. They say additional charges may be forthcoming.
A Highlands County man was involved in a fatal traffic crash in Hardee County. Florida Highway Patrol reports indicate the 49-year-old Sebring man was driving a sport utility vehicle on State Road 64, and had pulled out to pass a pick-up, when he hit an oncoming 3-wheeled motorcycle.
The motorcyclist, a 58-year-old Zolfo Springs man died in the crash. Although all three vehicles were gathered up in the mishap, there were no other serious injuries. No chages have been filed.
Apparently, there will be no municipal elections this year in Lake Placid or Frostproof, as only one person qualified for each of the available seats. In Lake Placid, incumbents Charlie Wilson and Ray Royce filed for their seats. However, incumbent Gregg Sapp did not file for election. Former councilwoman Debroah Worley DID file for that seat. She reportedly will be added to the council at the next meeting.
In Frostproof, incumbents Lesie Brewer and Tashana True were the only qualifying candidates for the two open seats there.
The Cracker Trail riders saddled up and headed out yesterday on their annual cross-state treck. They are expected to be in Hardee County tomorrow and in Highlands on Wednesday for their annual crossing of Highway 27. That markes the half-way point in their ride.