All articles tagged with #sarasota
Florida Lottery says a single ticket sold at the Bradenton Wawa near Sarasota won the July 28 Mega Millions jackpot of $800 million, ending a 37-draw rollover; the winner can take the $800 million annuity or about $344.2 million cash, with a 180-day prize-claim window (60 days to claim the cash option after the draw). The winning numbers were 34-48-49-59-70 and Mega Ball 12, and this marks Florida's largest prize since 2023.
Nicole Roberts, the girlfriend of suspected shooter Darryl Brookins, was arrested for allegedly attempting to hide the gun used in the shooting that killed Tommie Battie IV and critically injured Auburn running back Brian Battie. Surveillance footage and subsequent investigation led to the discovery of the weapon in Manatee County, Florida. Brookins' lawyer claims self-defense, while Roberts has pleaded not guilty to accessory charges. Brian Battie remains hospitalized with potential permanent paralysis.
Eastbound Clark Road from Gannt Road to I-75 in Sarasota County has reopened after a fatal two-vehicle crash early Sunday morning that left one person dead. The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office and Florida Highway Patrol are investigating the incident.
Auburn running back Brian Battie was critically injured and his brother, Tommie Battie IV, was killed in a shooting incident in Sarasota, Florida. The suspect, Darryl Bernard Brookins, has been charged with murder and attempted murder. The Battie brothers reportedly returned fire before falling to the ground. Brian Battie remains in critical condition on a ventilator.
A video captured the chaotic aftermath of a fatal shooting in Sarasota that killed former local football star Tommie Battie IV and injured his brother Brian Battie, who is currently on a ventilator. Darryl Brookins has been charged with murder and other offenses. A GoFundMe has been started to cover medical and funeral expenses.
The Outback Steakhouse on South Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, a once-popular restaurant with deep ties to the Tampa Bay area, has permanently closed as part of Bloomin' Brands' decision to shut down 41 underperforming locations. The closure, affecting older assets with leases from the '90s and early 2000s, was announced by Bloomin' Brands CEO David Deno. While some employees may have the opportunity to transfer, others will receive a severance package. Despite this initiative, Bloomin' Brands plans to open 40 to 45 new restaurants across the system in 2024.
Bridget and Christian Ziegler, a prominent Republican power couple in Sarasota, Florida, are facing backlash and calls for resignation after allegations of rape and a threesome scandal emerged. Christian Ziegler is under investigation for allegedly raping a female friend who had previously engaged in a threesome with him and his wife. Bridget Ziegler, who has been an outspoken opponent of LGBTQ rights, is facing criticism for her hypocrisy in engaging in same-sex encounters while fighting against policies that protect gay students and families. The couple's reputation as right-wing anti-LGBTQ crusaders has been severely damaged, and they are facing growing calls to step down from their positions.
Christian Ziegler, the chairman of Florida's Republican party, is under investigation for sexual battery after an individual reported being "sexually battered" at home in Sarasota. The police report, heavily redacted, mentions a "sexual assault allegation" and "sexual assault complaint." Ziegler's attorney expressed confidence in his client's exoneration and emphasized his cooperation with the investigation. The allegations come as Florida Republicans prepare for next year's presidential election, with Governor Ron DeSantis struggling to gain traction against presumed nominee Donald Trump. Ziegler's wife, Bridget Ziegler, is a founder of Moms for Liberty, a parental rights organization known for its opposition to LGBTQ+ literature in schools and libraries. The Florida Democratic party chair criticized the Zieglers for their perceived hypocrisy.
Florida GOP Chairman Christian Ziegler is under investigation by the Sarasota police for alleged sexual battery, according to a police incident report and his attorney. The incident, which took place at a home in Sarasota, was reported in early October. Ziegler's attorney stated that his client has been fully cooperative and expressed confidence that no charges will be filed. Ziegler's wife, Bridget Ziegler, a prominent conservative advocate, has not commented on the investigation. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis called for Ziegler to step aside while the investigation is ongoing. The Republican Party of Sarasota County expressed shock and disappointment and pledged to cooperate with investigators. The Florida Democratic Party Chair called for Ziegler's immediate resignation.
Locals and visitors in Sarasota, Florida, are trying to escape the heat as the area experiences its hottest year on record. With heat advisory level temperatures for the sixth consecutive day, people are opting to stay indoors or seek refuge in indoor bars and restaurants. Meteorologists predict more heat in the coming days, and ABC7 First Alert Weather will provide updates on this record-breaking season.
Skeletal remains found in Sarasota in 2007 have been identified as Jeana Burrus, a woman who was never reported missing. The investigation into her death went cold until advancements in DNA testing and genetic genealogy helped identify the remains. Jeana Burrus lived in Sarasota with her husband and son, and authorities are now seeking information on her and her husband, James Burrus. The couple had lived in Citrus County and Frederick, Maryland before moving to Sarasota. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office.
A 32-year-old woman from Sarasota died in a motorcycle crash in Manatee County after colliding with an SUV that attempted to turn left in front of her. The driver and passenger of the SUV sustained minor injuries. The incident is still under investigation.
U.S. News & World Report released its 2023-24 list of the 150 "Best Places to Live in the U.S." and 14 Florida cities made the list. Sarasota was ranked No. 5 and Naples was the only other Florida city to make the top 10, at No. 6. Jacksonville jumped to 16th from 24th, while Orlando jumped 66 spots, from 118th last year to No. 52 on the list. Fort Myers was rated the No. 3 "Safest Place" to live in the U.S.
A 19-year-old motorcyclist died after being hit by an SUV driven by a 76-year-old woman on Bee Ridge Road in Sarasota, Florida. The SUV attempted to turn left onto Shade Avenue and crossed into the path of the motorcycle. The motorcyclist was thrown from the bike and hit a crosswalk pole. The SUV spun and collided with a third car. The motorcyclist died at the hospital, and the SUV driver suffered minor injuries. The crash is under investigation.