WEATHER ALERT
Oakleaf High School among multiple Florida schools locked down after being targeted by ‘swatting’ calls
Read full article: Oakleaf High School among multiple Florida schools locked down after being targeted by ‘swatting’ callsOakleaf High School was briefly placed on lockdown on Tuesday while the Clay County Sheriff’s Office investigated an “unconfirmed threat” to the school.
Clay County Habitat for Humanity celebrates new administration office, executive director’s retirement
Read full article: Clay County Habitat for Humanity celebrates new administration office, executive director’s retirementClay County Habitat for Humanity will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony Tuesday at noon to celebrate its new administration office in Green Cove Springs.
Orange Park man looking to ‘feel normal’ again seeks closure after hit-and-run crash on I-295
Read full article: Orange Park man looking to ‘feel normal’ again seeks closure after hit-and-run crash on I-295In the state of Florida, over 100,000 hit-and-run crashes happened just last year. And that was actually down 1% from 2022. Hit-and-run crashes in 2023 resulted in 271 fatalities and 871 serious bodily injuries, according to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
‘I saw dead animals’: Suspected animal cruelty case now involves two homes
Read full article: ‘I saw dead animals’: Suspected animal cruelty case now involves two homesNews4JAX has learned that long before multiple dogs were removed from a home in Middleburg, the couple that had rented the home had recently moved out of Jacksonville where dead dogs were discovered.
Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, with more than 3x the daily average
Read full article: Thanksgiving is the peak day for home cooking fires, with more than 3x the daily averageWho doesn’t love a great Thanksgiving feast with all the fixings on the table? The biggest debate often centers around whether baked turkey or fried turkey is better. However, when it comes to Thanksgiving, turkey fires are a significant concern.
Here’s where you can buy, chop down a real Christmas tree in Northeast Florida
Read full article: Here’s where you can buy, chop down a real Christmas tree in Northeast FloridaThe day after Thanksgiving marks the start of a cherished tradition for many families: chopping down or buying a real Christmas tree.
25 dogs, 10 reptiles, prairie dogs, seized from Clay County home; owner could be charged with animal neglect
Read full article: 25 dogs, 10 reptiles, prairie dogs, seized from Clay County home; owner could be charged with animal neglectAn animal owner in Clay County is facing potential charges after multiple animals, including dogs, prairie dogs, and lizards, were seized from a home on Wednesday.
Clay County has approved the construction of a new $21M animal shelter, with plans to open in early 2025
Read full article: Clay County has approved the construction of a new $21M animal shelter, with plans to open in early 2025A new animal shelter is set to become a reality in early 2025. Construction on the new building is expected to begin at the start of the year, and it will be located on Sleepy Hollow Road. This project has been in development for several years.
Traffic relief in sight for Clay County commuters as First Coast Expressway project progresses
Read full article: Traffic relief in sight for Clay County commuters as First Coast Expressway project progressesClay County drivers are counting down the days until the area’s traffic-clogged roads are long gone, but the completion of two sections along the First Coast Expressway should provide some relief.
Man suing Orange Park casino after being shot outside venue in 2022
Read full article: Man suing Orange Park casino after being shot outside venue in 2022A man who was shot several times outside an Orange Park casino in 2022 after cashing out his winnings is now suing the venue. He believes not enough was done to keep him safe.
Northeast Florida realtors report stabilizing housing market with steady price growth
Read full article: Northeast Florida realtors report stabilizing housing market with steady price growthThe Northeast Florida Association of Realtors October Market Statistics report revealed a trend of increased inventory and moderate price growth, signaling a stabilizing market.
Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside and Clay County receive ‘A’ hospital safety rating, ranking 15th in the country
Read full article: Ascension St. Vincent’s Southside and Clay County receive ‘A’ hospital safety rating, ranking 15th in the countrySt. Vincent’s Southside, Riverside, and Clay County locations received excellent grades in hospital safety for fall 2024, ranking them 15th in the country.
Clay County tops state in school book removals, withdrawing nearly 290 books last school year
Read full article: Clay County tops state in school book removals, withdrawing nearly 290 books last school yearClay County in Northeast Florida takes the top spot in the state for districts removing the most books last school year.
Clay County man facing 15-year prison sentence after undercover operation reveals loaded gun, cash and drugs
Read full article: Clay County man facing 15-year prison sentence after undercover operation reveals loaded gun, cash and drugsA 27-year-old man from Clay County is facing 15 years in federal prison after the Clay County Sheriff’s Office conducted an undercover operation that revealed a loaded gun, cash, and drugs.
Frustration rises among some Lake Asbury residents over traffic delays, congestion caused by ongoing road construction
Read full article: Frustration rises among some Lake Asbury residents over traffic delays, congestion caused by ongoing road constructionConstruction along one Clay County road has been causing frustration among some residents for more than a year.
Clay County community mourns the loss of sheriff‘s office chaplain who was ’full of love, life, and faith’
Read full article: Clay County community mourns the loss of sheriff‘s office chaplain who was ’full of love, life, and faith’The Clay County community is grieving after the loss of the sheriff’s office’s chaplain who was “full of love, life, and faith.”
Paying the dirty price: Clay County residents petition against new trash provider after costly changes
Read full article: Paying the dirty price: Clay County residents petition against new trash provider after costly changesWaste bins the new provider will take can be purchased, but the price is steep for many. News4JAX found that an approved 95-gallon garbage cart can be purchased for $66, and a 65-gallon cart for $61. Plus, there’s a separate quarterly collection service fee of $15.33. And if you want to throw away just a bag of trash, it must have a sticker on it that costs $4.
2024 Veterans Day parades, events discounts & deals in Northeast Florida, Southeast Georgia this weekend
Read full article: 2024 Veterans Day parades, events discounts & deals in Northeast Florida, Southeast Georgia this weekendFlorida and Georgia are planning on showing honor and gratitude with multiple events around the area. Other local businesses are offering deals and discounts for veterans.
Michelle Cook reelected as Clay County sheriff after defeating Darryl Daniels again
Read full article: Michelle Cook reelected as Clay County sheriff after defeating Darryl Daniels againRepublican Michelle Cook will remain Clay County sheriff for another four years after beating out her opponent, former Clay County Sheriff Darryl Daniels for a second time.
Live Election Results 2024: Complete results for president, Florida, Georgia races
Read full article: Live Election Results 2024: Complete results for president, Florida, Georgia racesLive updates for the Presidential race, U.S. Senate, Congress, Florida Legislature and Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia-area races
Former Clay County deputy accused of using ‘false statements’ on police report to cover up crash he caused
Read full article: Former Clay County deputy accused of using ‘false statements’ on police report to cover up crash he causedA former Clay County Sheriff’s Office deputy was arrested Monday after he was accused of falsifying a police report to cover up a crash that he caused, according to the CCSO.
What you need to know if you’re planning to vote on Election Day
Read full article: What you need to know if you’re planning to vote on Election DayWith record setting early voting in some counties lines may not be as long for this Presidential election in some areas but that doesn't mean there's a lot of voters who will cast ballots. This is what you need to know if you vote on election day.
Lights, Sirens and Action: Clay County holds annual ‘Touch-a-Truck’ event
Read full article: Lights, Sirens and Action: Clay County holds annual ‘Touch-a-Truck’ eventOver the weekend, Clay County held its annual Touch a Truck: What Moves Clay event, which allowed families to interact with county officials, employees, and volunteers while checking out various trucks and even a helicopter.
11 years of fear: Behind-the-scenes look at one of Northeast Florida’s largest and best free haunted houses
Read full article: 11 years of fear: Behind-the-scenes look at one of Northeast Florida’s largest and best free haunted housesDaniel’s Dungeons of Haunted Horrors is celebrating its 11th year of screams and scares and gave News4JAX a behind-the-scenes look at the haunted attraction which is attended by thousands of visitors each year.
‘There are a lot of hours going into this’: Clay County sheriff provides look into how agency handles school threats
Read full article: ‘There are a lot of hours going into this’: Clay County sheriff provides look into how agency handles school threatsClay County Sheriff Director Patrick Golemme told News4JAX that as many as a dozen people are involved in every threat, including people from the sheriff’s office, the school district, and school resource officers.
Judge denies convicted Clay County contractor’s request for new trial after jury’s life sentence recommendation
Read full article: Judge denies convicted Clay County contractor’s request for new trial after jury’s life sentence recommendationThe defense for a Clay County contractor found guilty of killing a client will present a motion Tuesday for a new trial in the first-degree murder conviction.
‘Talk to your child’: Psychologist urges parents to get involved following recent JSO arrests over school threats
Read full article: ‘Talk to your child’: Psychologist urges parents to get involved following recent JSO arrests over school threatsOn the heels of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office announcing dozens of arrests over the last three months News4JAX spoke with a psychologist about what is being done to curb the behavior.
44-year-old man killed after going through fence, crashing into tree in Clay County: FHP
Read full article: 44-year-old man killed after going through fence, crashing into tree in Clay County: FHPA 44-year-old man from Starke died in a crash in Clay County early Saturday, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Clay County installing more than 500 life-saving AED kits in public spaces Friday
Read full article: Clay County installing more than 500 life-saving AED kits in public spaces FridayThe devices can help save someone in cardiac arrest. AEDs can significantly increase the chance of survival, specifically in that vital first minute after someone collapses.
Clay County worship leader accused of engaging in unlawful sexual activities with teen
Read full article: Clay County worship leader accused of engaging in unlawful sexual activities with teenA worship leader at a Clay County church was accused of having unlawful sexual activity with a teen who attended the church.
Clay County Fire Rescue offers tips for keeping families and pets safe during National Fire Prevention Month
Read full article: Clay County Fire Rescue offers tips for keeping families and pets safe during National Fire Prevention MonthThis month, Clay County Fire Rescue is offering tips on the dangers of fire hazards and how to prevent them. October is National Fire Prevention Month.
Balloon Glow & Laser Show brings family fun to the Clay County fairgrounds this weekend
Read full article: Balloon Glow & Laser Show brings family fun to the Clay County fairgrounds this weekendPrepare to check a new item off your bucket list by attending an exciting fall family event that will take to the skies this weekend at the Clay County Fairgrounds.
Show off your Halloween costumes, decorations and carved pumpkins on SnapJAX 🎃📸
Read full article: Show off your Halloween costumes, decorations and carved pumpkins on SnapJAX 🎃📸As we approach the weekend before Halloween, we know many individuals will be taking part in events, parties and more to get into the spooky spirit.
County-by-county fall events list: 2024 pumpkin patches, haunted houses, hayrides and events around Northeast Florida
Read full article: County-by-county fall events list: 2024 pumpkin patches, haunted houses, hayrides and events around Northeast FloridaIt’s nearly fall and the pumpkin patches, hayrides, haunted houses, and more spooktacular events are back!
Do any sex offenders, predators live along your trick-or-treating route? Here's how to find out
Read full article: Do any sex offenders, predators live along your trick-or-treating route? Here's how to find outSex offenders also have specific rules about what they can and can't do around Halloween, depending on what county they live in. We've compiled a county-by-county breakdown of those rules and regulations.
Clay County opens early voting locations, joining dozens of counties across Florida
Read full article: Clay County opens early voting locations, joining dozens of counties across FloridaClay County voters will have the chance to begin casting their ballots early in-person starting Tuesday, as the county opens its early voting sites, joining dozens across the state, including Duval and St. Johns counties.
13-year-old arrested in Clay County after saying he wants to go on ‘purge killing spree’ following break-up
Read full article: 13-year-old arrested in Clay County after saying he wants to go on ‘purge killing spree’ following break-upA 13-year-old boy was arrested Monday after the Clay County Sheriff’s Office said investigators found text messages stating he wanted to go on a “purge killing spree” centered around his ex-girlfriend and her friends.
Local shelters team up for free pet adoption event & festival at Seawalk Pavilion this weekend
Read full article: Local shelters team up for free pet adoption event & festival at Seawalk Pavilion this weekendThe Jacksonville Humane Society is partnering with three local shelters for a free pet adoption event and festival at the Seawalk Pavilion in Jacksonville Beach this weekend.
Daniel’s Dungeon returns: 3 nights of free haunted horrors
Read full article: Daniel’s Dungeon returns: 3 nights of free haunted horrorsOne Clay County home has built an entire haunted house for those brave enough to enter. Daniel’s Dungeon of Haunted Horrors is located off Blanding Boulevard and is said to be one of the best local scares in our area!
Jury recommends life sentence for Clay County contractor convicted of killing client
Read full article: Jury recommends life sentence for Clay County contractor convicted of killing clientA Clay County contractor who was convicted Monday of killing his client in 2019 now faces the possibility of being sentenced to death for her murder.
Clay County Sheriff’s Office looking for 2 suspects last seen near Keystone Heights schools
Read full article: Clay County Sheriff’s Office looking for 2 suspects last seen near Keystone Heights schoolsThe Clay County Sheriff’s Office is looking for two suspects who were last seen near the Keystone Middle and High Schools on Wednesday afternoon.
As sentencing begins in capital murder case, Clay County victim is remembered, defendant’s brain damage revealed
Read full article: As sentencing begins in capital murder case, Clay County victim is remembered, defendant’s brain damage revealedA Clay County contractor who was convicted Monday of killing his client in 2019 now faces the possibility of being sentenced to death for her murder.
80,000-year comet spotted in the skies of the southern parts of Florida
Read full article: 80,000-year comet spotted in the skies of the southern parts of FloridaA rare comet is about to pass by Earth this week, giving us a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to catch a glimpse of Comet Oort Cloud, also named Tsuchinshan Atlas
Updated County-by-County: When and how Hurricane Milton will impact Northeast Florida, Southeast Georgia
Read full article: Updated County-by-County: When and how Hurricane Milton will impact Northeast Florida, Southeast GeorgiaA county-by-county look at expected wind speeds, rainfall totals and when the worst conditions are expected (as of 3 p.m. on Wednesday):
Clay County gives updates on sandbags, debris pickup & more ahead of Hurricane Milton
Read full article: Clay County gives updates on sandbags, debris pickup & more ahead of Hurricane MiltonClay County officials urge residents to prepare as soon as possible as flooding is a major concern for Hurricane Milton.
Middleburg woman who planned with husband to groom children for sex sentenced to more than 21 years
Read full article: Middleburg woman who planned with husband to groom children for sex sentenced to more than 21 yearsA U.S. District Judge sentenced Meggin Anne Evans, a 35-year-old Middleburg woman, to serve 21 years and 10 months in federal prison for the production of child sexual abuse material.
Clay County residents complain of missed trash pick-ups days after service switch
Read full article: Clay County residents complain of missed trash pick-ups days after service switchSome Clay County residents are reportedly having to wait all week to get their trash picked up, which comes after the county switched to a new trash hauler, FCC Environmental Services, on Tuesday.
Jury sees surveillance video showing contractor’s movements around time Clay County woman went missing
Read full article: Jury sees surveillance video showing contractor’s movements around time Clay County woman went missingThe trial of a Clay County contractor accused of killing a client in 2019 is set to continue Friday morning.
Jury sees surveillance video showing contractor’s movements around time Clay County woman went missing
Read full article: Jury sees surveillance video showing contractor’s movements around time Clay County woman went missingThe trial of a Clay County contractor accused of killing a client in 2019 is set to continue Friday morning.
Prosecutors say a Clay County contractor killed a client and put her in the garbage. His defense points to a lack of DNA
Read full article: Prosecutors say a Clay County contractor killed a client and put her in the garbage. His defense points to a lack of DNAOpening statements are set to begin Thursday morning in the case of a Clay County contractor accused of killing a client in 2019.
Clay County Fire Rescue to host community Paramedicine’s Narcan events in October
Read full article: Clay County Fire Rescue to host community Paramedicine’s Narcan events in OctoberClay County Fire Rescue will host several Paramedicine Narcan events throughout Clay County in October to promote overdose prevention and understanding of narcotics.
As Clay County rolls out new trash services, some worry about company’s past troubles in St. Johns County
Read full article: As Clay County rolls out new trash services, some worry about company’s past troubles in St. Johns CountyIn Clay County, trash provider FCC Environmental Services is officially the new garbage service.
68-year-old man dies after being hit by car, pick-up on US 17 in Clay County: FHP
Read full article: 68-year-old man dies after being hit by car, pick-up on US 17 in Clay County: FHPA 68-year-old Green Cove Springs man died Tuesday morning after being hit while walking across U.S. 17 at Lovers Lane, the Florida Highway Patrol said.
New garbage service starts Oct. 1 in Clay County. Here’s what you need to know about your trash pickup
Read full article: New garbage service starts Oct. 1 in Clay County. Here’s what you need to know about your trash pickupThe trash provider FCC Environmental Services is slated to take over garbage services in Clay County on Oct. 1, and some changes will be implemented to help residents with the transition.
All lanes blocked on Blanding Blvd in Keystone Heights following deadly multi-vehicle crash: FHP
Read full article: All lanes blocked on Blanding Blvd in Keystone Heights following deadly multi-vehicle crash: FHPOne person died in a multi-vehicle crash Saturday morning on Blanding Boulevard in Keystone Heights, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Widespread power outages, downed trees & powerlines in Clay County after Helene
Read full article: Widespread power outages, downed trees & powerlines in Clay County after HeleneClay County officials are preparing for what will become Hurricane Helene as it is expected to make landfall in the Florida Panhandle on Thursday.
The Salvation Army provides disaster services in response to Hurricane Helene
Read full article: The Salvation Army provides disaster services in response to Hurricane HeleneThe Salvation Army plans to activate its disaster response teams to provide immediate relief to communities affected by Hurricane Helene
Clay County preparing to see effects of Hurricane Helene starting Thursday afternoon
Read full article: Clay County preparing to see effects of Hurricane Helene starting Thursday afternoonClay County officials are preparing for what will become Hurricane Helene as it is expected to make landfall in the Florida Panhandle on Thursday.
‘Zero tolerance’: Clay County superintendent, sheriff release videos talking about school threats
Read full article: ‘Zero tolerance’: Clay County superintendent, sheriff release videos talking about school threatsThe Clay County sheriff and the Clay County District Schools superintendent recently released three videos on social media, addressing school threats, talking to children about them and explaining how they investigate tips.
3 injured after car strikes 2 stopped vehicles at intersection in Clay County
Read full article: 3 injured after car strikes 2 stopped vehicles at intersection in Clay CountyThree people were injured after a car struck two stopped cars, a motorcycle and another car at an intersection in Clay County on Sunday afternoon.
2024 Voter's Guide: Clay County Land Conservation Referendum
Read full article: 2024 Voter's Guide: Clay County Land Conservation ReferendumClay County is aiming to join other Florida counties which have a local program for the purpose of purchasing conservation lands. In order to do so, they are asking voters to approve the funding for the program.
‘It is hell’: Lake Asbury residents are beyond frustrated with ongoing road construction ahead of First Coast Expressway
Read full article: ‘It is hell’: Lake Asbury residents are beyond frustrated with ongoing road construction ahead of First Coast ExpresswayResidents in several subdivisions have been dealing with massive traffic slowdowns for several months in Lake Asbury. It's the fastest growing part of Clay County.
Collapsed bridge in Clay County caused by ‘excessive rainfall,’ official says
Read full article: Collapsed bridge in Clay County caused by ‘excessive rainfall,’ official saysThe bridge on Moody Avenue between Connie Circle and Meadow Drive in Clay County was deemed “unsafe” due to damage, and a 1.6-mile detour has been put in place.
Bridge in Clay County deemed ‘unsafe’ due to damage; 1.6-mile detour in place
Read full article: Bridge in Clay County deemed ‘unsafe’ due to damage; 1.6-mile detour in placeThe bridge on Moody Avenue between Connie Circle and Meadow Drive in Clay County was deemed “unsafe” due to damage, and a 1.6-mile detour has been put in place.
Burglary suspect dies in crash following pursuit in Clay County, deputies say
Read full article: Burglary suspect dies in crash following pursuit in Clay County, deputies sayA 33-year-old man was killed in a crash after leading Clay County deputies on a pursuit that ended on County Road 209 Friday night, according to the sheriff’s office.
School principal says Keystone Heights community trying to move forward after multiple tragedies
Read full article: School principal says Keystone Heights community trying to move forward after multiple tragediesLaurie Burke has been the Keystone Heights Junior/Senior High School principal for five years. She’s witnessed the heartache of the school tragedies firsthand.
Two Clay County parks will undergo improvements and the community is invited to share their ideas
Read full article: Two Clay County parks will undergo improvements and the community is invited to share their ideasThe community is invited to share ideas on the proposed improvements for two Clay County parks.
2024 Voter's Guide: Clay Community Development Districts
Read full article: 2024 Voter's Guide: Clay Community Development DistrictsResidential developments in Clay County where a governmental unit was created to serve the specific needs of its community are selecting candidates for their development district’s Board of Supervisors.
2024 Voter’s Guide: Clay County Sheriff
Read full article: 2024 Voter’s Guide: Clay County SheriffThe incumbent sheriff, Michelle Cook, faced no challengers in the Republican primary. As no Democrats entered the race, her only opponent in the general election is Darryl Daniels, the former Clay County sheriff who Cook unseated in the Republican primary four years ago. This election, Daniels is running without party affiliation.
Woman seriously injured in hit-and-run on State Road 100 in Clay County
Read full article: Woman seriously injured in hit-and-run on State Road 100 in Clay CountyA woman was transported to a hospital with serious injuries after she was struck by a vehicle while walking on State Road 100 in Clay County Saturday night, according to the Floria Highway Patrol.
Jacksonville man faces up to 30 years after stealing mail from multiple residents across Northeast Florida
Read full article: Jacksonville man faces up to 30 years after stealing mail from multiple residents across Northeast FloridaA Jacksonville man has plead guilty to bank fraud and mail theft charges connected to multiple Northeast Florida counties.
Meet Smiles: The newest therapy dog providing mental health support to Clay County firefighters
Read full article: Meet Smiles: The newest therapy dog providing mental health support to Clay County firefightersSmiles is second therapy dog to join the team to add mental health support to firefighters, especially after firefighters respond to a very difficult call.
Safety analyst urges drivers to watch for children after crash seriously injures 15-year-old boy biking to school
Read full article: Safety analyst urges drivers to watch for children after crash seriously injures 15-year-old boy biking to schoolA 15-year-old boy was seriously injured in a crash on Blanding Boulevard in Clay County early Thursday, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Law enforcement agencies to team up with Mothers Against Drunk Driving for 'Saturation Saturday'
Read full article: Law enforcement agencies to team up with Mothers Against Drunk Driving for 'Saturation Saturday'Nearly 200 people were killed in the U.S. by impaired drivers over the Labor Day holiday weekend in 2022.
15-year-old bicyclist seriously injured in crash on Blanding Boulevard in Clay County
Read full article: 15-year-old bicyclist seriously injured in crash on Blanding Boulevard in Clay CountyA 15-year-old boy was seriously injured in a crash on Blanding Boulevard in Clay County early Thursday, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
Important questions to ask your athlete’s coach before they play
Read full article: Important questions to ask your athlete’s coach before they playNews4JAX got a look at the equipment used to determine when it’s safe, and for how long student-athletes can be permitted to exercise outside in the heat.
St. Johns County commissioners vote to terminate contract with new trash hauler after 10,000+ complaints about service
Read full article: St. Johns County commissioners vote to terminate contract with new trash hauler after 10,000+ complaints about serviceLess than a month after beginning waste services in St. Johns County, the company FCC Environmental Services could be terminated amid complaints from dozens of residents over service disruptions.
New Northeast Florida gun offender violence court aims to expedite firearm-related cases
Read full article: New Northeast Florida gun offender violence court aims to expedite firearm-related casesIn a significant move to combat gun violence and streamline the legal process for firearm-related cases, the 4th Judicial Circuit has launched a new Gun Offender Violence Court.