BREAKING NEWS
Expert provides insight into factors that can contribute to building collapses
Read full article: Expert provides insight into factors that can contribute to building collapsesOver the last 15 years, there have been three major building collapses in the Jacksonville area: The Berkman Plaza II in 2007, the Ascension St. Vincent’s Riverside parking garage in 2023, and the collapse of a building in Jacksonville’s Urban Core on Monday evening. News4JAX spoke with Mark Kilgore, a forensic structural engineer, who pointed to a couple of factors that could contribute to structure failures, including the age of the building, a lack of maintenance, and water intrusion.
How you can help ‘Sharon’s Songbirds’ as we ‘Walk to Defeat ALS’
Read full article: How you can help ‘Sharon’s Songbirds’ as we ‘Walk to Defeat ALS’Several years ago our WJXT family was personally touched by ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, when our beloved executive producer Sharon Siegel-Cohen was diagnosed. Now we walk to defeat ALS in her honor.
VIDEO: News4JAX sits down with comedian, actor Desi Banks ahead of Jacksonville show
Read full article: VIDEO: News4JAX sits down with comedian, actor Desi Banks ahead of Jacksonville showNews4JAX Reporter Aleesia Hatcher sat down with comedian and actor Desi Banks ahead of his March 15 show in Jacksonville for his “The Elevation Tour.”
‘COVID about took my life’: Residents reflect on the five years since the pandemic put a pause to the region
Read full article: ‘COVID about took my life’: Residents reflect on the five years since the pandemic put a pause to the regionMarch 2020 was the start of a journey with an uncertain ending. Now, five years later, News4Jax caught up with residents to hear about their experiences and how it influenced where they are and what they do today.
JSO settles federal lawsuit in strip-search arrest that broke department policy; man gets $275K: The Tributary
Read full article: JSO settles federal lawsuit in strip-search arrest that broke department policy; man gets $275K: The TributaryA man who was improperly stripped searched by police in the middle of a public street while bystanders watched nearby settled a federal lawsuit with Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters and the city for $275,000, according to court records, The Triburary, a nonprofit news organization in Jacksonville, reported Thursday.
We caught up with the iconic Mary Baer and explored Grace Under the Oaks
Read full article: We caught up with the iconic Mary Baer and explored Grace Under the OaksGrace Under the Oaks is a therapy program that provides adaptive riding and Equine-Assisted Activities (EAA) to adults and children with cognitive and/or physical challenges.
Citizens Property Insurance Board of Governors vote to move offices out of downtown
Read full article: Citizens Property Insurance Board of Governors vote to move offices out of downtownAfter drawing seven bids from its invitation to negotiate for “turn-key” office space in Jacksonville, Citizens Property Insurance Corp. has selected a property in South Jacksonville.
24-year-old arrested in connection to shooting of 2 teen brothers in Brunswick, police say
Read full article: 24-year-old arrested in connection to shooting of 2 teen brothers in Brunswick, police sayA 24-year-old man was arrested in connection to a double murder shooting in Brunswick, News4JAX learned Tuesday.
Jacksonville couple arrested following multiple months-long investigations into suspected animal cruelty
Read full article: Jacksonville couple arrested following multiple months-long investigations into suspected animal crueltyA married couple that was under a months-long investigation for suspected animal cruelty is now facing criminal charges.
‘Right thing at the right time’: Government efficiency and ‘Duval DOGE’ take center stage at Jacksonville City Hall
Read full article: ‘Right thing at the right time’: Government efficiency and ‘Duval DOGE’ take center stage at Jacksonville City HallMayor Donna Deegan addressed the public on recent governmental streamlining efforts while Council Member Ron Salem brought his “Duval DOGE” initiative into the spotlight.
Mayor wants to add officers near Citizens Property Insurance building; company may move amid safety concerns downtown
Read full article: Mayor wants to add officers near Citizens Property Insurance building; company may move amid safety concerns downtownAfter drawing seven bids from its invitation to negotiate for “turn-key” office space in Jacksonville, Citizens Property Insurance Corp. has selected a property in South Jacksonville, News4JAX’s news partner the Jacksonville Daily Record reported.
Buildings in Northeast Florida, Southeast Georgia among those listed under ‘savings’ on DOGE website
Read full article: Buildings in Northeast Florida, Southeast Georgia among those listed under ‘savings’ on DOGE websiteThe Department of Government Efficiency, better known as DOGE, aims to cut $1 trillion in federal spending by the end of the fiscal year, according to NPR. On DOGE’s website, it appears that some of those savings could come from cuts in Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia as multiple buildings in our viewing area are listed underneath real estate terminations.
St. Johns County middle schooler reclaims title, punches ticket to Scripps National Spelling Bee
Read full article: St. Johns County middle schooler reclaims title, punches ticket to Scripps National Spelling BeeSree Vidya Siliveri, a 14-year-old from Alice B. Landrum Middle School in Ponte Vedra Beach, claimed her second straight First Coast Spelling Bee victory Friday night.
Jacksonville substitute accused of injuring student, encouraging others to ‘beat him up’
Read full article: Jacksonville substitute accused of injuring student, encouraging others to ‘beat him up’A 57-year-old substitute teacher is accused of “actively encouraging students” to fight in the classroom, according to an arrest report obtained by News4JAX.
St. Johns County deputy on administrative leave after ‘disturbing’ social media comment sparks internal investigation
Read full article: St. Johns County deputy on administrative leave after ‘disturbing’ social media comment sparks internal investigationA St. Johns County deputy was placed on administrative leave after a controversial public comment on a social media site sparked an internal investigation, according to the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office.
Widely opposed Oceanway Chick-Fil-A awaits permit clearance to move forward with construction plans
Read full article: Widely opposed Oceanway Chick-Fil-A awaits permit clearance to move forward with construction plansAfter months of fighting and rescheduled meetings wrapped in confusion, residents have consistently voiced their concerns about increased traffic, student safety and property values being affected if the unwanted restaurant was to open.
Man posing as Orlando Magic player rep ate jewelry he stole from Tiffany & Co. at mall, police say
Read full article: Man posing as Orlando Magic player rep ate jewelry he stole from Tiffany & Co. at mall, police sayA Texas man is facing charges after Orlando police say he stole $800,000 worth of luxury jewelry at the Mall at Millenia before swallowing it during his arrest days after the crime, according to News4JAX sister station WKMG.
Beginning Monday, Naval Hospital Jacksonville emergency room no longer open for 24 hours
Read full article: Beginning Monday, Naval Hospital Jacksonville emergency room no longer open for 24 hoursNaval Hospital Jacksonville announced on social media that its emergency room will no longer be open for 24 hours beginning Monday, March 10.
A new wave of ‘Jacksonville Ladies’ are making sure no veteran is buried alone at the Jacksonville National Cemetery
Read full article: A new wave of ‘Jacksonville Ladies’ are making sure no veteran is buried alone at the Jacksonville National CemeteryThey’ve made it their mission to make sure no veteran is buried alone at the Jacksonville National Cemetery on the city’s Northside.
Blueberry farms: A sweet summer activity on Jacksonville’s Northside
Read full article: Blueberry farms: A sweet summer activity on Jacksonville’s NorthsideWhen most people think of Jacksonville’s Northside, the airport and zoo are typically among the spots that come to mind. However, many don’t realize that the area is also home to some popular blueberry farms.
The Jacksonville Zoo has been a city staple for 100 years. We take you on an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour
Read full article: The Jacksonville Zoo has been a city staple for 100 years. We take you on an exclusive behind-the-scenes tourHave you ever wanted to go behind the scenes at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens? Well, you’re in luck.
Riverside High School was temporarily on lockout Tuesday morning after a reported threat
Read full article: Riverside High School was temporarily on lockout Tuesday morning after a reported threatStudents at Riverside High School were on lockout Tuesday morning after a threat was reported, the Duval County school district said.
Uncover the artistry of 3D printing at D&A 3D Prints, a hidden gem at the Pecan Park Flea & Farmer’s Market
Read full article: Uncover the artistry of 3D printing at D&A 3D Prints, a hidden gem at the Pecan Park Flea & Farmer’s MarketPecan Park Flea and Farmer’s Market, a Northside Jacksonville staple, offers everything from everyday essentials to unique 3D-printed creations at D&A 3D Prints.
Video shows deputies trying to pull man accused of pointing gun at drivers on I-95 from overturned truck
Read full article: Video shows deputies trying to pull man accused of pointing gun at drivers on I-95 from overturned truckNew video shows the moments St. Johns County deputies apprehended a 62-year-old man seen waving and firing his gun outside the window of a red pickup while driving along Interstate 95.
VIDEO: Driver seen waving gun at vehicles, firing shots on I-95; chase ends in crash near CR-214 in St. Johns County
Read full article: VIDEO: Driver seen waving gun at vehicles, firing shots on I-95; chase ends in crash near CR-214 in St. Johns CountyAll southbound lanes of Interstate 95 north near County Road 214 were closed Monday morning after a driver was seen waving a firearm at vehicles, leading to a pursuit with deputies that ended in a crash, according to the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office.
‘You’re worth it’: Breaking the stigma and stereotypes surrounding eating disorders
Read full article: ‘You’re worth it’: Breaking the stigma and stereotypes surrounding eating disordersAs National Eating Disorders Awareness Week wraps up, News4JAX looked into the stereotypes and challenges surrounding this diagnosis.
Former Mayport sailor charged with bribery, accused of trying to give fake Navy ID cards to Chinese immigrants
Read full article: Former Mayport sailor charged with bribery, accused of trying to give fake Navy ID cards to Chinese immigrantsA Navy reservist was charged with bribery after being accused of trying to get one of his former shipmates to help two immigrants from China, one of whom was living in the country illegally, get fake Navy ID cards, according to the criminal complaint.
‘We need...open season on the homeless’: St. Johns County deputy’s social media comment sparks internal inquiry
Read full article: ‘We need...open season on the homeless’: St. Johns County deputy’s social media comment sparks internal inquiryThe St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office is deciding if disciplinary actions will be implemented against one of its deputies following a public comment on a social media site.
Flagler County jail rolls out new iris scanner technology to identify inmates
Read full article: Flagler County jail rolls out new iris scanner technology to identify inmatesThe newer technology is called Inmate Recognition and Identification System, better known as I.R.I.S. The technology scans the iris in the eyes to help positively identify new inmates before they are admitted into the jail and before they are allowed to leave the jail.
4-year-old dies after finding gun, accidentally shooting himself in Central Florida, police say
Read full article: 4-year-old dies after finding gun, accidentally shooting himself in Central Florida, police sayNews4JAX’s partner station in Orlando, News 6 WKMG, is reporting that a 4-year-old boy who accidentally shot himself with a handgun that he found in the family vehicle on Friday has died, according to Davenport police.
Preparing for the Gate River Run: an overview of the course changes
Read full article: Preparing for the Gate River Run: an overview of the course changesFor another year, News4JAX will be broadcasting the Gate River Run live! Each Friday this month, Alessandra Pontbriand and Julie Stackhouse discussed different topics on News4JAX+ about preparing for the race. In the final episode, they discussed how to pickup your race packet, an overview of the course changes, and Julie reminisced on her favorite Gate River Run that she raced and won!
Catholic Charities Jacksonville lays off 26 employees following Trump’s order to suspend refugee program
Read full article: Catholic Charities Jacksonville lays off 26 employees following Trump’s order to suspend refugee programCatholic Charities Jacksonville on Wednesday laid off 26 employees from its refugee program following President Donald Trump’s executive order that halted the arrivals of new refugees to the country, the organization’s CEO told News4JAX.
City council member proposes to create specialized development board for Northeast Jacksonville
Read full article: City council member proposes to create specialized development board for Northeast JacksonvilleA city council member will reintroduce a proposal that aims to create a special development review board for Northeast Jacksonville.
Jaguars inching closer to choosing new general manager, expected to make hire this week: sources
Read full article: Jaguars inching closer to choosing new general manager, expected to make hire this week: sourcesThe Jacksonville Jaguars have begun conducting in-person interviews Wednesday for their vacant general manager position and are inching closer to completing the process.
Downtown residents say JSO’s beefed-up bicycle and mounted patrols are making the area safer
Read full article: Downtown residents say JSO’s beefed-up bicycle and mounted patrols are making the area saferWhen Jacksonville police recently released bodycam video of a mounted patrol officer using her horse to chase down a suspected drug dealer who tried to run away, the video was only a snippet of what the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office is doing to decrease crime downtown.
‘Woodline Rapist’ takes plea deal, gets 15 years in Orlando sex assaults from 2002
Read full article: ‘Woodline Rapist’ takes plea deal, gets 15 years in Orlando sex assaults from 2002A man linked to two cold case sexual assaults from 2002 through DNA evidence has accepted a plea deal, bringing long-awaited justice for his victims.
‘This is much more relaxed’: Jacksonville Auto Show returns this weekend with cars and canines
Read full article: ‘This is much more relaxed’: Jacksonville Auto Show returns this weekend with cars and caninesThe Jacksonville Auto Show is back in town this weekend, transforming the Prime Osborn into a massive showroom filled with hundreds of cars for enthusiasts to explore.
JSO invites families to watch Bold City Police Motorcycle Skills Challenge at EverBank Stadium this weekend
Read full article: JSO invites families to watch Bold City Police Motorcycle Skills Challenge at EverBank Stadium this weekendNews4JAX got a sneak peek Friday morning into the weekend lineup of events for the Bold City Motorcycle Challenge.
Shanna Gardner, accused in murder-for-hire case, stole from inmate, had makeshift tattoo device in jail, report says
Read full article: Shanna Gardner, accused in murder-for-hire case, stole from inmate, had makeshift tattoo device in jail, report saysDisciplinary records obtained by News4JAX show that Shanna Gardner, who is accused of hiring someone to kill her ex-husband, was disciplined and accused of theft, disorderly conduct, lying to a staff member and possessing a makeshift tattoo device.
High school student shot in the arm by FDLE agent while playing ‘Senior Assassin’ game, sheriff’s office says
Read full article: High school student shot in the arm by FDLE agent while playing ‘Senior Assassin’ game, sheriff’s office saysThe Florida Department of Law Enforcement said one of their agents shot a Bishop Kenny High School student in the arm on Wednesday while the student was playing a game of “Senior Assassin” in Nassau County.
Jacksonville commuters say no major traffic disruptions experienced following Pres. Trump’s return to work order
Read full article: Jacksonville commuters say no major traffic disruptions experienced following Pres. Trump’s return to work orderCommuters in Jacksonville said they didn't notice a major increase in traffic around NAS Jax or NS Mayport Monday morning when remote workers were ordered back to their offices.
Family of heart transplant patient who died after leaving JSO custody set to receive $300K settlement
Read full article: Family of heart transplant patient who died after leaving JSO custody set to receive $300K settlementThe family of a heart transplant patient who died after a short stay in the Duval County jail has settled a federal lawsuit over his death.
The Gate River Run is the USA 15k Championship. What does that mean for elite runners?
Read full article: The Gate River Run is the USA 15k Championship. What does that mean for elite runners?The Gate River Run is three weeks away! For many, this race is a community event for locals to enjoy running or walking through different neighbors. For an elite few, they're racing for prize money and bragging rights.
Could Casey DeSantis and Byron Donalds face off in a Trump vs. DeSantis proxy battle for Florida governor?
Read full article: Could Casey DeSantis and Byron Donalds face off in a Trump vs. DeSantis proxy battle for Florida governor?Florida's First Lady, Casey DeSantis, is reportedly contemplating a bid for governor in 2026, spurred by encouragement from top Republican donors. While speculation about her political ambitions has circulated for years, recent discussions at a donor event in Palm Beach County suggest the possibility is becoming more concrete.
‘Another step closer’: City and UF make strides toward new graduate campus in downtown Jacksonville
Read full article: ‘Another step closer’: City and UF make strides toward new graduate campus in downtown JacksonvilleThe city of Jacksonville rolled out the latest developments for the University of Florida’s graduate campus in downtown Jacksonville.
In wake of tragic DC air crash, Florida pilot shares near-miss experience with law enforcement helicopter in 2022
Read full article: In wake of tragic DC air crash, Florida pilot shares near-miss experience with law enforcement helicopter in 2022Thanks to ADS-B technology, anyone can track commercial, private, and some military flights in the country using FlightRadar24. However, aviation experts told News4JAX that it is not required or used by all military aircraft.
Jacksonville chief health officer talks rise in flu cases across US, what you can do to protect yourself
Read full article: Jacksonville chief health officer talks rise in flu cases across US, what you can do to protect yourselfDr. Sunil Joshi, the city’s chief health officer talked with News4JAX from Mayor Donna Deegan’s town hall to talk about the spike in flu cases across the United States, what the city is doing, and what you can do to protect yourself.
‘He did not need to lose his life the way he did’: Witness recalls ‘horrific’ I-295 crash that killed 66-year-old man
Read full article: ‘He did not need to lose his life the way he did’: Witness recalls ‘horrific’ I-295 crash that killed 66-year-old manSome will say the details in this case sound like something out of a movie. However, for the woman who saw the crash, she tells News4Jax's Briana Brownlee it’s a reality she can’t escape.
‘Great to be back’: Kansas City Chiefs’ Chamarri Conner brings Duval pride to Super Bowl week
Read full article: ‘Great to be back’: Kansas City Chiefs’ Chamarri Conner brings Duval pride to Super Bowl weekSuper Bowl week is in full swing, and News4Jax anchor Jenese Harris is on the ground in New Orleans to capture the excitement of opening night.
Spotlighting the remarkable career of St. Johns Country Day School soccer coach Mike Pickett
Read full article: Spotlighting the remarkable career of St. Johns Country Day School soccer coach Mike PickettAnyone familiar with soccer in Florida is aware of the illustrious career of St. Johns Country Day School coach Mike Pickett. In his 26th year as head coach in Orange Park, Pickett has won 14 state championships and holds the record for most consecutive championships, winning 11 in a row from 2012 to 2022.
10-time Olympian Caeleb Dressel talks achievements, what the Clay County community means to him
Read full article: 10-time Olympian Caeleb Dressel talks achievements, what the Clay County community means to himAs part of the News4JAX “4 Your Neighborhood” campaign in Orange Park, 10-time Olympian Caeleb Dressel talked about what the Clay County community means to him, his achievements and more.
Orange Park Fire Department tackles challenge of recruiting firefighters to small town
Read full article: Orange Park Fire Department tackles challenge of recruiting firefighters to small townThe biggest challenge for the fire department in the Town of Orange Park is keeping firefighters and filling vacancies.
‘I am eternally grateful’: Somer Thompson’s mother reflects on community support after 7-year-old murdered in 2009
Read full article: ‘I am eternally grateful’: Somer Thompson’s mother reflects on community support after 7-year-old murdered in 2009The search for 7-year-old Somer Thompson brought hundreds to the town of Orange Park 15 years ago. Her mother, Diena Thompson, reflects on what the support meant to her during the worst time of her life.
New security measures, increased monitoring ensure safer environment for students at Orange Park Junior High
Read full article: New security measures, increased monitoring ensure safer environment for students at Orange Park Junior HighOrange Park Junior High School has enhanced its campus security with new safety protocols, including ID checks and increased monitoring of social media threats, to protect students and staff.
‘This is current history’: St. Augustine Beach issues its first-ever Black History Month proclamation
Read full article: ‘This is current history’: St. Augustine Beach issues its first-ever Black History Month proclamationIn a historic moment for St. Augustine Beach, the city officially proclaimed February 2025 as Black History Month. It was the first time in the city’s history that it made the independent declaration.
Naval Station Mayport hosts 'polar plunge' with 'Mayport Mitch' in annual tradition
Read full article: Naval Station Mayport hosts 'polar plunge' with 'Mayport Mitch' in annual tradition“Mayport Mitch” the famed base groundhog from Naval Station Mayport made his annual appearance at the beach Monday, leading the “polar plunge.”
One month to go! Tips to train for the Gate River Run
Read full article: One month to go! Tips to train for the Gate River RunThe Gate River Run is officially one month away! Each Friday in February, Alessandra Pontbriand and Julie Stackhouse will discuss different topics about preparing for the race that will air on News4JAX+ at 7 p.m.
Councilman wants phased-in approach to increasing trash pickup fees for Jacksonville residents
Read full article: Councilman wants phased-in approach to increasing trash pickup fees for Jacksonville residentsA Jacksonville city councilman is recommending what he calls a “phased-in” approach to a proposed plan to increase trash pickup fees for homeowners, according to News4JAX news partner the Jacksonville Daily Record.
News4JAX is launching our ‘4 Your Neighborhood’ campaign. First stop: Orange Park!
Read full article: News4JAX is launching our ‘4 Your Neighborhood’ campaign. First stop: Orange Park!WJXT is proud to continue its long-serving promise of dedication to North Florida and South Georgia communities by introducing a new, inside perspective of area neighborhoods.
There have been rumors of ICE raids around Northeast Florida. Here’s what we found out
Read full article: There have been rumors of ICE raids around Northeast Florida. Here’s what we found outFollowing numerous emails and social media questions from the community, News4JAX reached out to law enforcement agencies over questions of local immigration raids.
Nocatee walking group opts to change name to avoid legal battle, keep focus on ‘walking with neighbors’
Read full article: Nocatee walking group opts to change name to avoid legal battle, keep focus on ‘walking with neighbors’A Nocatee walking group is bowing out of a legal battle with a company over the group’s name.
Florida Legislature will tackle immigration bill in special session — but not the way DeSantis wanted
Read full article: Florida Legislature will tackle immigration bill in special session — but not the way DeSantis wantedFlorida lawmakers gaveled in the special session Gov. DeSantis asked for on Monday, then quickly gaveled out of it and started their own, News4JAX sister station WKMG reported.
Georgia lawmaker proposes new childcare safety measures almost one year after toddler’s tragic death
Read full article: Georgia lawmaker proposes new childcare safety measures almost one year after toddler’s tragic deathA Georgia lawmaker is pushing for new safety requirements at childcare facilities following the death of a 16-month-old child last May.
Florida Blue employee says second wave of layoffs came with no warning as industry faces ‘complex’ challenges
Read full article: Florida Blue employee says second wave of layoffs came with no warning as industry faces ‘complex’ challengesEmployees at Florida Blue, the largest health insurance provider in Jacksonville, spoke out Friday about the company’s decision to lay off hundreds of workers.
River City Runway: Jacksonville Fashion Week
Read full article: River City Runway: Jacksonville Fashion WeekIn a recent segment on News4Jax, Jacksonville Fashion Week showcased its commitment to elevating the local fashion scene while supporting emerging designers and businesses. As a platform dedicated to celebrating creativity and talent, Jacksonville Fashion Week serves the community by providing a vibrant space for designers like Mystery Closet, Shay Oliver, and others to present their collections. The second annual Jacksonville Fashion Week event will take place on January 25, 2025, at 9501 Arlington Expressway, Suite 250, starting at 2 PM.
JEA ‘ready to respond’ to potential outages as Duval County residents brace for winter storm
Read full article: JEA ‘ready to respond’ to potential outages as Duval County residents brace for winter stormJacksonville officials and agencies said they are prepared to respond to the potential impacts of the winter weather storm forecast to impact North Florida and southern Georgia on Tuesday night into Wednesday morning.
News4JAX Varsity 4 girls soccer Super 6: Bishop Kenny returns to rankings as district tourneys approach
Read full article: News4JAX Varsity 4 girls soccer Super 6: Bishop Kenny returns to rankings as district tourneys approachThe News4JAX Varsity 4 Super 6 girls soccer rankings will be published every Thursday during the regular season — except during Thanksgiving and Christmas week. Records are through Jan. 15 games.
Frustrated residents of a Nassau County apartment complex are wondering why rent is rising after water issues
Read full article: Frustrated residents of a Nassau County apartment complex are wondering why rent is rising after water issuesResidents of a Nassau County apartment complex are wondering why their rent is set to rise, along with utilities, even though they are having issues with their water.