In truly “Florida man” fashion, a passenger was caught on camera by a sheriff’s office helicopter launching fireworks at passing cars on I-95 in St. Johns County on July 4.

Kangaroos, monkeys, giant lizards, snakes and a 2,000-pound white rhinoceros are among more than 140 animals that escaped from captivity in Florida since 2022, according to state wildlife records obtained by News4JAX sister station WKMG in Orlando.

Florida is set to execute a 74-year-old man, its oldest inmate in over a century, just weeks after executing another inmate who was then the oldest to receive the state's death penalty.

Former employees of Icon Preparatory School in Jacksonville say they have been unable to file their 2025 federal income taxes because they have not received correct W-2 forms — and some say they have not received W-2s at all.

A national food-poisoning law firm and a Florida attorney filed the first lawsuit tied to an outbreak of E. coli that public health officials say has been linked to frozen GreenWise Organic blueberries sold exclusively at Publix stores.

Attorney General James Uthmeier has issued a civil subpoena to General Mills Inc. and General Mills Operations LLC as part of an inquiry under the Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act into the supply chain for products containing potassium bromate sold in Florida.

Normal summer rain chances return by Thursday as heat persists

Tensions between the U.S. and Iran over the weekend pushed oil prices higher in overnight trading, renewing upward pressure on Florida gasoline prices, AAA said.

Quick thinking by Florida Highway Patrol troopers may have saved a kidnapping victim, as reported by our sister station WKMG in Orlando.

Florida is in the process of executing three of its oldest death row inmates back to back — each one older than the last.

Dangerous heat is back today across Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia, and a Heat Advisory will be in effect from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Locally heavy rain and flooding possible through Tuesday

The Florida Highway Patrol said Friday that it is monitoring three wildfires along State Road 19 between Silver Lake Road and Rodeheavers Boys Ranch Road and urged motorists to use caution.

Buying a home has always required patience and planning, but a new study suggests the finish line keeps moving further away for many would-be homeowners in Florida and Georgia.

A man was arrested Wednesday after he tried to switch seats with a passenger during a traffic stop and left his vehicle in reverse, sending it rolling into a deputy’s patrol car, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office said.

The 2026 Florida Python Challenge began Friday, giving participants 10 days to search for invasive Burmese pythons and compete for a share of $25,000 in prizes.

A Duval County judge is set to hear testimony next month in a public records lawsuit filed by the family of Charles Faggart, a man who died after an incident inside the Duval County Jail.

A 13-year-old boy was placed under arrest after deputies said he threatened to kill another 13-year-old and sent photos of a handgun through Instagram, according to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.

A Jacksonville man is facing felony charges after a May crash on Merrill Road left a 19-year-old dead — and investigators say alcohol and drugs were both factors.

What began as a neighborhood block party has grown into one of Jacksonville’s largest community celebrations. The 11th annual Duval Day returns to Clanzel T. Brown Park in Northwest Jacksonville on Saturday, bringing together local artists, businesses and thousands of people to celebrate the city.

Initially a music conference, this has evolved into a networking event for creatives in all genres

Viewers shared photos and videos with News4JAX, asking us to identify what was in the sky early Thursday morning.

Florida is joining forces with four other southeastern states to crack down on speeding and aggressive driving as part of Operation Southern Slow Down, an annual, week-long speed enforcement campaign running July 13–18, 2026.

A Jacksonville woman was arrested in the early morning hours of the Fourth of July after a Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office deputy clocked her traveling at speeds up to 130 mph on I-295 North.

Rain is likely Sunday and early next week

Palm Beach International Airport is getting a new name — and soon, new flight codes — following action by Florida’s governor and state legislature earlier this year.

A Jacksonville roofing company once known for giving away free roofs on social media is now under investigation by the State Bureau of Insurance Fraud, as customers, employees and subcontractors say they are owed a combined total of nearly $1 million.

Storm forecasters have further downgraded predictions a little more than a month into the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season, which has so far produced a single named tropical system.

The White House said it is not planning to put Harriet Tubman on the front of the $20 bill, a stance that effectively puts on hold an Obama‑era effort to replace Andrew Jackson on the note, according to multiple reports.

A federal judge in Florida has ordered the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to immediately restore key features of a federal immigration verification system that several states rely on to check voter rolls and professional license applicants.

There are several factors that help to suppress tropical activity, and one of them is Saharan dust.

More Floridians are turning to nonprofit credit counselors for help as household expenses rise and debt grows faster than income, according to new data from Money Management International.

Florida’s gun-carry rules have shifted in recent years, especially on open carry and age limits, but the basic framework remains: carry is generally legal for people who can lawfully possess a firearm. But where you can carry depends on how you’re carrying (concealed vs. open), the type of place you’re entering and whether the property owner allows it.

As part of a settlement in a lawsuit over firearms policy, the Bradford County Fair Association has agreed to permit the open carry of firearms at the county fairgrounds to the fullest extent allowed under Florida law, court documents show.

Dr. Matt Corrigan, a professor at Jacksonville University, joined us on The Morning Show to discuss the ruling, which many say sets a strong precedent that higher education can’t be limited to the whims of politicians.

More than 5 million Americans deal with hernias every year, but only 15% ever seek help from a medical professional, according to the National Center for Health Statistics. One Florida surgeon says that gap needs to close.

A new invasive pest is damaging grass and sugarcane crops across South Florida, raising alarms among farmers and researchers alike. The pasture mealybug has now been detected in 15 Florida counties — and scientists at the University of Florida are racing to find solutions.

Last month, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis signed even more bills — including a new law that implements more tax rules.

Fernandina Beach e-bikes and other personal mobility devices will now be under different rules and regulations after city commissioners unanimously passed an ordinance on Tuesday night.

Florida lands 2027 cornerbacks Raheem Floyd and Bam Whitfield, boosting the Gators' secondary. Breaking down film, fits, and impact.

A Georgia woman is facing up to 75 years in prison after pleading no contest to racketeering and fraud charges tied to a multistate scheme that cheated TJX Companies stores out of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Former Florida gubernatorial candidate Andrew Gillum is facing new legal trouble following his arrest last week in Daphne, Alabama on drug-related charges. Authorities say Gillum has since been released.

Temperatures are heating up and the dog days of summer can be deadlier than many pet owners realize. One large veterinary study found about one in seven dogs treated for heatstroke did not survive. And vets warn a dog’s body temperature above 106 degrees can cause permanent brain and organ damage.

The heat and humidity will continue to build across Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia this week. In fact, temperatures could come close to record levels. However, it is summer after all and when you factor in the humidity it feels much warmer. Let’s discuss the heat index and some tips to stay safe during the heat.

This year, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed off on over 200 new state laws, many of which took effect last week. However, he didn’t OK all of the bills that were sent to his desk.

A newly obtained arrest report is shedding light on a recent street takeover and street racing arrest on Beach Boulevard.

Brief showers offer little relief from relentless summer conditions

New federal data reveals the first 50-state look at a steep drop in Affordable Care Act enrollment after enhanced subsidies expired in January.

When Christine Messina brought home a golden retriever puppy, she expected a new companion. Days later, she told our sister station in Orlando WKMG the dog was dead

For another year in a row, one Florida city topped the charts when it comes to termite infestations, according to our sister station in Orlando WKMG which looked at the latest report by Orkin.

A Heat Advisory has been issued for eastern zones starting at 11 a.m. Sunday for areas east of U.S. Highway 301 and toward the coast.

New Florida law changes when the clock starts to prosecute mandatory reporters who fail to report suspected child abuse, inspired by Douglas Anderson cases, as Baldwin principal’s arrest renews attention.

Florida’s new spectrum alert system took effect July 1, bringing a targeted, potentially life-saving tool to help locate missing children with autism spectrum disorder.

The beloved Yulee Chick-fil-A restaurant, built in 2004, will soon close to reopen at a new, improved location about a mile down the street on State Road 200.

Over 100 new laws took effect this week, including one that brings a couple of tax holidays to the Sunshine State this year, according to a report from our sister station in Orlando, WKMG.

Gov. Ron DeSantis continues to put some distance between himself and a property tax measure he pushed for that is going before voters in November, as reported by our partners at News Service of Florida.

Gov. Ron DeSantis posted a slight change in his net worth as he entered his final year as Florida’s top executive, as reported by our news partners at News Service of Florida.

If you’re planning to celebrate the Fourth of July with some fireworks, it’s important to be very careful – especially if kids are going to be there too.

Jacksonville NAACP questions a judge’s denial of Stand Your Ground immunity for two men charged in a 2025 Macclenny shooting that killed Devin Powers Jr. Mothers fear life sentences as appeals continue.

Florida lawmakers are directing hundreds of millions of dollars toward housing affordability in the newly approved state budget, targeting programs that help essential workers and working families buy homes.

Clay County District Schools has announced its policy for free and reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs for the 2026-2027 school year. Families who believe they may qualify are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Palm Beach International Airport is getting a new name — and soon, new flight codes — following action by Florida’s governor and state legislature earlier this year.

A Ponte Vedra Beach man has filed a lawsuit against Publix Super Markets, Inc., alleging a store employee struck him with a shopping cart, causing serious injuries.

Voters across Florida will head to the polls for the state’s Primary Election on Tuesday, Aug. 18. If you haven’t checked your registration recently — or if you plan to vote by mail — now is the time to make sure you’re ready.

A judge has ruled that prosecutors are allowed to review medical records related to Tiger Woods’ March vehicle crash and subsequent arrest in Florida on suspicion of driving under the influence.

With more than 72 million Americans expected to travel for Independence Day — including about 61.4 million who will drive- AAA is activating its Tow to Go program to discourage impaired driving and keep roads safe.

Singer / Songwriter showcases new music for River City Live

The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office said it will increase patrols on roads and waterways over the Fourth of July weekend after two traffic fatalities occurred within minutes of each other on Thursday, Sheriff Rick Staly said.

The U.S. Justice Department’s Antitrust Division, joined by 17 state attorneys general, including Florida, filed a civil lawsuit against three major egg producers, accusing them of illegally coordinating to drive up egg prices for American consumers.

New Florida domestic violence laws take effect, increasing penalties for repeat offenders, launching electronic monitoring pilot programs, expanding address confidentiality for dating violence victims, and studying a web-based 911 alert system.

Once again, Northeast Florida had the two best-performing school districts in the state on statewide exams designed to test skills in reading and math, based on data recently released by the state.

A Jacksonville-area medical device sales representative was sentenced to four years in Florida state prison on June 25, after being convicted of organized fraud connected to a years-long theft scheme at a Northeast Florida hospital.

The Florida Department of Education’s accountability reports have been released, and two Northeast Florida districts came out on top in the overall rankings.

Legislation that makes several changes to Florida law regarding terrorist organizations and how they are designated went into effect on Wednesday.

Two-time Stanley Cup-winning goalie Sergei Bobrovsky signed a three-year, $21 million contract with the Maple Leafs.

Community event to celebrate the 4th of July

A North Florida couple who celebrated 60 years of marriage in June is now trying to rebuild after a fire destroyed the Interlachen home they spent decades building together.

Florida’s summer heat is more than uncomfortable — it can be deadly, especially for young children left in hot cars. Medical experts are renewing calls for families to take simple, potentially life-saving precautions this season.

A new Florida law aimed at preventing sudden cardiac death in youth sports takes effect July 1, adding new requirements and setting the stage for mandatory heart screening for first-time high school athletes statewide.

Florida chases two top 2027 defensive backs and lands its first 2028 commit in Miami receiver Armani Strong.

Provisions from a law impacting Florida restaurants are set to take effect this week.

Local Republicans held a press conference on Tuesday to demand accountability and address concerns over what they called “wasteful spending” under Mayor Donna Deegan’s administration.

In Florida, reporting child abuse isn’t just encouraged — it’s the law. Every person in the state is considered a mandatory reporter, but the level of legal obligation depends on who you are and what you do for a living.

A 26-year-old Jacksonville man is facing an aggravated assault charge after police said he fired shots at a JTA bus on Monday afternoon after the driver refused to let him board without paying the fare.

Florida high school students have a new path to meeting graduation requirements, thanks to a law signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis taking effect July 1.

About a dozen people were booked on street racing-related charges after a viral video showed a car gathering at Jacksonville’s Tinseltown. JSO hasn’t confirmed connections or released details.

The principal of Baldwin Middle-Senior High School was arrested on Monday on a charge of failing to report child abuse, according to Duval County Public Schools.

Sarasota police stopped an 8-year-old boy operating a personal watercraft off the coast of Lido Key over the weekend, a move that will send the boy’s father to court.

A day on the water ended in tragedy after an alligator attack in Seminole County—one of two gator attacks reported in Central Florida this weekend, according to a report from our sister station in Orlando, WKMG.

A day on the water ended in tragedy after an alligator attack in Seminole County—one of two gator attacks reported in Central Florida this weekend, according to a report from our sister station in Orlando, WKMG.

Amtrak passengers traveling northbound from Florida into Georgia should expect delays Monday afternoon as extreme heat triggers mandatory speed restrictions along the route.

A 68-year-old motorcyclist from Hilliard was critically injured Sunday night in a crash at the intersection of New Kings and Old Kings roads, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.

Cursive writing is making an official comeback in Florida’s public schools. Gov. Ron DeSantis signed legislation requiring students in grades 2 through 5 to learn cursive writing — and the law takes effect July 1.

Gov. Ron DeSantis on Friday signed a death warrant for a man who killed his former girlfriend’s parents four decades ago.

The 2025 Taste of Golf brought together top chefs representing all 50 states and U.S. territories, with Chef Michael Meuse of Sawgrass Country Club earning the prestigious Judges’ Choice award for his Florida-inspired dish. Instead of a traditional seafood approach, Chef Meuse drew inspiration from North Florida’s rich culinary roots, incorporating flavors like datil peppers, sweet corn, and Southern comfort elements. Joining Jax Food Finder and National Food Month expert Tory Eulenfeld, Chef Meuse celebrates National Waffle Iron Day by recreating his award-winning cornbread waffle. To learn more, visit www.tasteofgolf.com or www.sawgrasscountryclub.com.

Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a nearly $118 billion Florida budget on Monday during a news conference in Tampa at Hillsborough College.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) shares annual reminders on how to be BearWise® as bears become more active.

Gov. Ron DeSantis hasn’t used his veto power much following the latest legislative session, but he nixed two more bills on Friday.

As July 1 nears, when more than 100 new laws will take effect in Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis signed another eight measures into law on Friday.

Today in Jacksonville, Florida, expect hot and humid summer conditions with a mix of sunshine and increasing clouds. Afternoon temperatures will climb into the mid-90s, with heat index values making it feel even hotter. There is a chance of scattered thunderstorms developing during the afternoon and early evening, bringing brief heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and frequent lightning to some areas. Any storms will diminish after sunset, leaving partly cloudy skies and warm overnight temperatures in the mid-70s. Residents should stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and remain alert for rapidly changing weather conditions.