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Lightning Strike Causes Water Outage, Boil Notice In Cottage Hill

A lightning strike this morning interrupted water service and had led to a boil water notice for some in the Cottage Hill area. Cottage Hill Water Works said that a lightning strike caused a water main break on Coweta Road that resulted in the disruption of water service. The area affected includes all residents and meters located along Coweta Road. A boil water notice has been issued for those CHWW customers along Coweta Road. The utility is advising, as a precaution, that all water used for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth, or washing dishes be boiled. A rolling boil of one minute is sufficient. As an alternative bottled water may be used. This precautionary boil water notice will remain in effect until the problem has been corrected and a bacteriological survey shows that the water is safe to drink. This story will be updated with the boil water notice is rescinded.  Read More →

Showers And Thunderstorms Likely Today

Here is your official North Escambia area forecast: Friday: Showers and possibly a thunderstorm before 1pm, then showers and thunderstorms between 1pm and 4pm, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 4pm. High near 87. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 90%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms. Friday Night: Showers and thunderstorms likely before 1am, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms. Saturday: Showers and thunderstorms. High near 85. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 80%. Saturday Night: A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening. Sunday: Showers and thunderstorms. High near 85. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 80%. Sunday Night: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. Calm wind. Monday: Showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. High near 87. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 80%. Monday Night: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. Calm wind. Tuesday: Showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. High near 87. Chance of precipitation is 80%. Tuesday Night: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms. High near 83. Chance of precipitation is 80%. Wednesday Night: A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. Thursday: Showers and thunderstorms. High near 86. Chance of precipitation is 80%.  Read More →

Two-Time Super Bowl Champion Anthony Pleasant Meet & Greet, Catfish Fundraiser Saturday In Century

Two-time Super Bowl champion and Century native Anthony Pleasant will return to the park that bears his name for a youth football fundraiser Saturday. Blackcats Black & Gold Night will be held 4-8 p.m. Saturday, July 20 at Anthony Pleasant Park off East Highway 4 in Century. Catfish plates will be available for $14 each with preorder pick up at 6 p.m. Limited plates are available. Call or text Kaley at (850) 417-0412 to order. All proceeds will got to Century Blackcats Football & Cheer. Admission is free. A meet and greet with by held with Anthony Pleasant, and there will be flag football games for all ages. Pictured: Sporting a “Blackcats Pride” hat, two-time Super Bowl champion and Century native Anthony Pleasant speaks to the Northview Chiefs football team in October 2022. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Officials Warn Of Possible Alligator In Flomaton’s Hurricane Lake

Officials have received reports of alligators in a Flomaton lake. The Flomaton Police Department has received reports of alligator sightings in the lake at Hurricane Park “Please use caution while we work on a solution to remove the alligator,” the Flomaton Police Department said. Pictured: An alligator was spotted in Flomaton’s Hurricane Park Lake in 2021 and the lake was closed. State wildlife officials were unable to locate the alligator. Photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Hank’s Furniture to Pay $110K In EEOC Religious Discrimination Lawsuit

Hank’s Furniture, Inc. will pay $110,000 and furnish other relief to settle a religious discrimination lawsuit brought by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) over and incident at nationwide retailer’s store in Pensacola. According to the lawsuit, a former assistant manager at Hanks on Davis Highway notified the company that her religious beliefs prevented her from receiving a COVID-19 vaccine. Rather than discuss the employee’s religious beliefs to determine the feasibility of an accommodation, management ignored accommodation requests then summarily denied the employee’s requests and attempted to dispute the validity of her sincerely-held religious beliefs, the EEOC said. The commission said the alleged conduct violated a prohibition on religious discrimination, which requires an employer to accommodate an employee’s sincerely held religious beliefs if the employer knows or suspects the beliefs conflict with an employer requirement, and there is no undue burden on the employer. Under the three-year decree settling the case, Hank’s will also adopt and implement a written policy assuring employees the retaler will interpret religious accommodation requests broadly based on EEOC guidance and will accommodate religious beliefs that do not put an undue burden on the company. Additionally, decision makers, managers and employees will receive updated training about religious accommodation and anti-discrimination provisions.  Read More →

Voter Registration And Party Change Deadline Is Monday, July 22

The registration and party change deadline for the August 20 primary is Monday, July 22, according to Escambia County Supervisor of Elections Robert Bender. Those who do not register before this deadline will be unable to vote in the Primary Election. Voters who wish to change party affiliation for the primary and do not act by this deadline will have to vote with the party they are currently registered with. Registration and party changes can be made online at registertovoteflorida.gov. Physical applications can be found at EscambiaVotes.gov and submitted by mail or in-person at the main office at 213 Palafox Place, 2nd Floor, in Pensacola. There are also applications available to complete upon arrival at the Supervisor of Elections office. For more information, visit EscambiaVotes.gov.  Read More →

Alabama Death Row Inmate Executed At Atmore Prison For 1998 Shooting Of Father Of Seven

The execution of Alabama death row inmate Keith Edmund Gavin was carried out by lethal injection on Thursday at the Holman Correctional Facility in Atmore. He was pronounced deceased by a physician at 6:32 p.m. On Wednesday, Gavin had three visitors and no phone calls. On Thursday he had four visitors, no phone calls, refused his breakfast meal, accepted his lunch meal, had a few snacks and refused his final meal. He id not make any special requests. Gavin was sentenced to death for the 1998 capital murder of William Clinton Clayton, Jr. , in Cherokee County. Clayton was the father of seven and had stopped at an ATM to withdraw money for a date night with his wife. “After a Cherokee County courier, William Clayton, Jr., finished his day’s work, he stopped at an ATM so he could treat his wife to dinner, only to be robbed of his life by Keith Gavin,” Gov. Kay Ivey said in a statement. “After receiving a death sentence, Mr. Gavin appealed time after time for years to avoid justice, but failed at every attempt. Today, that justice was finally delivered for Mr. Clayton’s loved ones. “I offer my prayers for Mr. Clayton’s family and friends who still mourn his loss all these years later,” Ivey said.  Read More →

Head On Crash Injures Two In Beulah

Two people were injured in a crash before daybreak Wednesday in Beulah. The crash happened at the intersection of Beulah Road and West Nine Mile Road at 3:07 a.m. Authorities said two vehicles were involved in the head-on crash. One patient was extricated from their vehicle. Two people were transported by Escambia County EMS to area hospitals. The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating. Escambia County Fire Rescue and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office also responded.  Read More →

FWC Removes 14 Boaters For Boating Under The Influence During Blue Angels Air Show

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission says they removed 14 boaters suspected of boating under the influence during the four days of the Pensacola Beach Air Show. FWC als said despite the substantial numbers of vessels in the water, only two minor boating incidents were reported and there no significant or fatal boating accidents occurred over the course of the event. “Blue Angels Weekend is a much-anticipated tradition for so many people in our area,” said Maj. Robby Creech, FWC Northwest regional commander. “I am proud of the dedication and commitment shown by the officers in our region, our local law enforcement partners and FWC officers from outside our area who volunteered to take time away from their lives and their family to travel here to protect the boating public and provide a safe environment for everyone to enjoy. That’s really what it’s is all about.”  Read More →

Escambia Man Gets Life Sentence For Murdering Roommate Before Staging Her Drowning

An Escambia County man has been sentenced to life in prison for killing his roommate before staging the scene to make it appear she drowned in a small water feature in a yard. James Edwards Hicks, 62, was sentenced to by Judge Linda Nobles after he was found guilty by an Escambia County jury of second degree murder. The jury found that, on August 12th, 2022, James Hicks killed his roommate, 65-year-old Terri Jo Williams, and then staged a scene to make it appear as if she had drowned herself in a small garden pond in the front yard. During the death investigation, Hicks stated that his roommate had been emotional and depressed for weeks, and that he thought she committed suicide. The jury was presented with evidence from the scene, death investigation, neighbors and family members, and the medical examiner who determined the victim’s death was the result of homicide.  Read More →

Catholic’s TJ McCants Drafted By Chicago White Sox

Pensacola Catholic High School graduate TJ McCants was selection in the 16th round of the 2024 MLB Draft by the Chicago White Sox. McCants played college baseball at Ole Miss and Alabama. He went to the White Sox as the 469th overall pick. In one season for the Crimson Tide, McCants made 56 starts for Alabama in the outfield. He had a .306 batting average with 17 home runs and 53 RBOs.  McCants also had 14 stolen bases.  Read More →

Escambia Public School Hosting Job Fair On July 29

The Escambia County Public Schools Human Resource Services Department will host a job fair on Monday, July 29, at the J.E. Hall Center. ECPS is looking to fill vacancies in all educational support departments, including food services, custodial services, maintenance, transportation, and substitute teachers. Interviews will be held on the spot. “We are excited to offer an additional in-person job fair to hire educational support staff in all areas,” said Director of Personnel Services Courtney Combs. “It is so impactful to be able to have our areas fully staffed and ready to greet our children for the new school year. ” The Job Fair will take place from 9-11 a.m. in Room 160 at the J.E. Hall Center, located at 30 East Texar Drive in Pensacola.  Read More →

Woman Arrested In Kentucky For Fatal 2023 Escambia County Hit And Run

An Escambia County woman was arrested in Kentucky Tuesday afternoon for a 2023 hit and run crash on Sorrento Road that killed a 61-year old Navy veteran. Jessica Elizabeth Hendrickson, age 41 of Pensacola, was arrested during a traffic stop in Kentucky. “While traveling southbound on US 41 in Kentucky, a tag alert was issued to law enforcement in the area matching the description of Hendrickson’s boyfriend’s vehicle (she is known to frequent use or be in). Local law enforcement were in the general area and were able to conduct a traffic stop and ultimately arrest Hendrickson,” Florida Highway Patrol Lt. Jason King said. On June 10, 2023, Hendrickson was the driver of the vehicle which struck the 61-year-old cyclist from the rear on Sorrento Road, propelling both the bicycle and rider to the south shoulder. Hendrickson then fled the scene, according to FHP. Family has identified the victim as retired Navy Master Chief Jeff Nichols, 61. FHP has not specified the exact charged Henrickson will face once she is extradited back to Florida. Pictured: Jessica Elizabeth Hendrickson pictured in a September 2020 mugshot from Escambia County after a misdemeanor arrest.  Read More →

‘Operation Southern Slow Down; Targets Speeding In Five States

Law enforcement agencies in Florida and four other states have teamed up for Operation Southern Slow Down 2024, a week-long speed enforcement and education campaign that began Monday. The broad effort involving multiple states in the Southeast—Florida, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and Tennessee—has a collective goal to reduce the number of speed-related crashes and, ultimately, bring the number of traffic fatalities down to zero. The Florida Highway Patrol said speeding is a significant factor in traffic fatalities across Florida, contributing to nearly 10% of these fatalities statewide between 2019 and 2023. Demographic data reveals that young male drivers are particularly at risk, with 84% of speeding-involved fatalities involving male drivers, predominantly those aged 16-25. FHP said the statistics underscore the critical need for targeted enforcement and education campaigns like Operation Southern Slow Down to address dangerous driver behaviors like speeding and the tragic consequences they have on roadways. “Operation Southern Slowdown is a focused, collaborative effort to enforce traffic laws and educate drivers on driving behaviors that lead to fatal crashes, striving to one day experience zero fatalities on our roadways,” said FHP Colonel Gary Howze II. “FHP is proud to work with our law enforcement and public safety partners across state lines to provide a safer driving environment for everyone.” Pictured: A Florida Highway Patrol trooper stops a motorist on Highway 97 in Walnut Hill. NorthEscambia.com photo, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Atmore Man, Century Woman Arrested During Suspicious Vehicle Investigation

An Atmore man and a Century woman were arrested during a suspicious vehicle investigation in Atmore. About 12:30 a.m. Monday, an Atmore Police Officer on routine patrol observed a suspicious vehicle behind the Tavern on Highway 31. As the officer approached the vehicle, he detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle and a male, later identified as 37-year-old Matthew Edward Thomas of Atmore, began walking away, according to Atmore Police Sgt. Darrell McMann. The officer reported that Thomas tossed a plastic bag as he walked way and detained Thomas. The officer also detained the vehicle’s passenger, 28-year-old Kelsey Alanna Taylor of Century. Atmore Police said the plastic bag allegedly tossed by Thomas contained 15-grams of crystal methamphetamine, and two grams of marijuana, a digital scale, and a clear glass pass with meth residue were located in the vehicle. Thomas was charged with unlawful possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana II and tampering with physical evidence. He was booked into jail without bond. Taylor was transported to the Escambia County (AL) Detention Center in Brewton and extradited  to Escambia County, Florida, on an outstanding probation violation warrant in a 2022 grand theft case.  Read More →

FDOT Updates Status Of Century Highway 29 Construction Work

A new traffic configuration will likely happen next week for a detour zone on North Century Boulevard (Highway 29) in Century. After a NorthEscambia.com report on Monday that the roadway was not ready for a Florida Department of Transportation announced traffic shift to the southbound lanes, FDOT provided additional details. According to Kohen Johns Brannon, FDOT public information specialist, the contractor located a damaged water line late last week that put them behind schedule. The contract was scheduled to put place rock on Monday and pave the southbound lanes Tuesday through Thursday. “Once paving is complete, they will begin the process of shifting the lanes to the new traffic configuration,” Brannon said, adding the traffic shift to the southbound lanes will likely happen next week. The FDOT projects includes a major reconstruction and realignment of Highway 29 from just south of East Highway 4 to the Alabama state line. The project includes reconstructing a 700-foot curved segment of Highway 29 from north of Henry Street to Cottage Street; the curve has been the site of several truck accidents in recent years. The full length of the $4.7 million project began in early January 2023 and had an original anticipated completion target date in Spring 2024. FDOT will also upgrade traffic signals, drainage structures, pavement markings, and driveways, while also improving curb ramps and sidewalks to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. Pictured: The southbound travel lanes of Highway 29 (North Century Boulevard) and the current traffic shift as seen on Saturday, July 13. NorthEscambaia.com photos, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Walnut Hill Man, Three Others Charged After Alleged Overdose On Embalming Fluid, GHB

A Walnut Hill man and three others were charged after he allegedly overdosed on GHB and embalming fluid. At about 8 a.m. Sunday, the Police officers responded to a residence in the 300 block of Beck Street in reference to a possible drug overdose. The responding officer encountered several people on the property and was informed the unconscious person drank a cocktail consisting of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) and embalming fluid, a combination police said is commonly known as “Scoot”. During the officer’s interaction with the other individuals at the scene he discovered there might be additional narcotics in camper on the property. The officer contacted Atmore Police narcotics investigators who obtained a search warrant. Atmore Police Sgt. Darrell McMann said investigators executed the search warrant and discovered methamphetamine, numerous other items that have yet to be identified and numerous other items that are commonly used to ingest narcotics. After being treated and released from the hospital, 29-year-old Shawn Michael Boutwell of Walnut Hill was charged with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. Leslie Anita Whiting, age 35 of Atmore, was charged with possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and disorderly conduct. McMann said Whiting claimed to have overdosed and was transported to the Atmore Community Hospital. He said she became irate and confrontational with hospital staff when she thought law enforcement was not present. Police also charged 47-year-old Amy Jo Louise Nelson of Daytona Beach and 44-year-old Jonathan Alexander Schinasi of Lake Butler, Florida, with possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. Pictured clockwise:  Boutwell, Whiting, Schinasi and Nelson.  Read More →

Escambia Man, 77, Charged With Shooting Multiple Rounds At Santa Rosa County SWAT

A 77-year-old Escambia County man has been charged after allegedly firing nine rounds at the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team on Saturday. Clifford Whennen was charged with: fleeing and eluding resisting arrest aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer (five counts) firing weapon criminal mischief probation violation (two counts) On Saturday, Milton Police Department responded to a reckless driver complaint on Glover Lane where they located a vehicle driven by and uncooperative Whennen. The MPD officer called for assistance from SRSO, which blocked the vehicle in. They said Whennen had an active felony warrant and was known for recent threats to law enforcement. “The suspect had an active felony warrant and recent threats to law enforcement. The suspect exited the vehicle with a firearm pointed at his head. Deputies attempted to have Whennen drop the firearm, but he refused and reentered the backseat of his vehicle,” said Kylie Blankenship, SRSO assistant public information officer, said. “Due to Whennen being barricaded with a firearm, SRSO SWAT responded to the scene with an armored rescue vehicle (Bearcat). Failed negotiations were continued, and less lethal munitions were deployed within the vehicle,” Blankenship added. “Upon deployment of less lethal munitions, Whennen immediately shot seven rounds in the direction of law enforcement. The armored rescue vehicle thankfully protected the Deputies inside from being hit by these lethal rounds.” After several deployments of less lethal munition from SRSO SWAT, Whennen surrendered. He was treated at a local hospital for cuts caused by broken glass. He was booked into the Santa Rosa County Jail without bound due to two probation violation warrants.  Read More →

Escambia (AL) Volunteer Fire Departments Receive State Grant, Present Service Awards

The Escambia County Volunteer Fire Association recently received a state grant and honored member accomplishments. State forester David Thomas and Lucas Newbie presented 14 Volunteer Fire Departments with the 2024 Alabama Forestry Grant for $1995.79. Alabama Reps. Alan Baker and Matthew Hammett attended the association meeting at Elim Baptist Church in the Roberts community. Baker thanked all fire personnel for their commitment to serving communities through Escambia County and stated that Senator Greg Albritton was an important part of the process. Hammett offered his appreciation to each firefighter for stepping up and providing “service above self” in medical emergencies, accidents, fires and natural disasters. The Association also presented service awards at the meeting as follows: John Martin Lifetime Achievement Award – Captain Jerry Gehman Nokomis VFD Career Paid Fire Chief Award – Chief Ronald Peebles Atmore Fire Department Volunteer Fire Chief Award – Alex Singleton Appleton VFD Career Paid Firefighter Award – Captain Louis English Atmore Fire Department Volunteer Male Firefighter Award – Jerrel Cain Appleton VFD Volunteer Female Firefighter Award – Elisabeth Evans Wallace VFD Volunteer Firefighter Rookie of the Year Award – Logan Blake McCall VFD Volunteer Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Award – Melanie Jett Appleton VFD There are 24 fire departments in Escambia County with over 285 firefighters. Pictured top: Representative from the Appleton, Barnett Crossroads, Bradley, Dixie, Dixonville, Lambeth, Little Rock, McCall, McCollough, Nokomis, Ridge Road, Roberts, Wallace and Wawbeek fire departments with state Reps. Alan Baker and Matthew Hammett. Pictured below: Service award winners. Submitted photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Tate Grad, UWF Standout Darrien McDowell Selected In 2024 MLB Draft

Tate High School graduate Darrien McDowell was selected by the San Diego Padres Monday in the sixth round of the 2024 MLB Draft. McDowell, a junior first baseman for the University of West Florida Argos , was the 180th overall selection in the draft,. He was the first Division II player selected, and the first Argo drafted since 2015. McDowell graduated from Tate High in 2020, and played at Pensacola State College before joining the UWF baseball team. Last season at UWF, McDowell hit .442 with 27 home runs and 77 RBIs. He was the 2024 Division II Leader in home runs, total bases and slugging percentage, and was named the 2024 Gulf South Conference Player of the Year. Photo for NorthEscambai.com click to enlarge.  Read More →

Escambia County Corrections’ Wilson, Hankins Graduate From State Leadership Programs

Two Escambia County Corrections employees have graduated this year from leadership programs through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, demonstrating their dedication to enhancing their leadership skills in the criminal justice profession. Capt. Shawn Hankins (pictured right) graduated from the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute’s Senior Leadership Program and Sgt. Lonnie Wilson (pictured left) graduated from the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute’s Florida Leadership Academy, both of which require a rigorous application and selection process. “I’m incredibly proud of Capt. Hankins and Sgt. Wilson for taking the initiative and putting in the hard work it takes to apply for and complete these programs,” Escambia County’s Chief of Corrections Rich Powell said. “Corrections is a demanding and challenging career, and it’s imperative to develop and recognize strong leaders who can successfully guide our team through challenges that come our way. I appreciate FDLE for offering training and development programs like this to foster the advancement of Escambia County and other law enforcement agencies throughout the state.” Capt. Hankins and Sgt. Wilson were selected from applicants throughout the state to participate in the multi-week programs, which teach participants critical skills to be effective leaders through the challenges faced by criminal justice professionals. Both Capt. Hankins and Sgt. Wilson spoke highly of their experiences, which not only taught them valuable leadership skills, but also helped them network and build connections with other agencies throughout the state. “I think it gets you ready for upper-level management, and it helps with that next level of getting a bigger perspective community-wide as opposed to focusing on your area of concern,” said Capt. Hankins, who has worked for Escambia County Corrections since 2005. “It makes you think of the community as whole and not just inside the jail, but how it affects the community outside of the jail.” Sgt. Wilson was among 44 first-line supervisors serving in leadership roles selected for the Florida Leadership Academy, with participants representing 37 criminal justice agencies throughout the state. He was also nominated and selected as class president. “The information that they taught, just learning how to become a leader and figuring out what type of leader you are – it’s helped me tremendously,” said Sgt. Wilson, who has been with Escambia County Corrections for nearly 25 years and now supervises more than 40 employees. The Florida Leadership Academy consists of four week-long sessions where participants learn skills necessary to support the needs of their agencies and communities in preparation for future challenges. The goal of the academy is to prepare first-line supervisors in criminal justice organizations to exemplify the character and integrity expected of criminal justice professionals, while examining the various components necessary to become efficient leaders. The Senior Leadership Program is designed to prepare Florida’s criminal justice leadership for the challenging and changing demands of the future. Participants met for seven weeks over a 10-month period. They studied the trends and events that will challenge criminal justice professionals and the state, also examining the leadership skills necessary to create and lead the changes that lie ahead.  Read More →

Escambia Commission Cancels This Week’s Meeting

This week’s schedule Escambia County Commission meeting has been canceled. The meeting was scheduled for Thursday, July 18. The public forum preceding the meeting was also canceled due to no meeting cancellation. The next scheduled meeting for the Escambia County Commission is Thursday, August 1 at 5:30 p.m. Pictured: The July 9, 2024, meeting of the Escambia County Commission.  Read More →

Suspect, 19, Indicted For Fatal Drive-By Shooting Of 70-Year-Old

A 19-year-old man has been indicted for the fatal drive-by shooting of a 70-year-old woman in Escambia County last month. State Attorney Ginger Bowden Madden announced Monday that Jaquaris Ethridge was indicted by Escambia County grand jury on charges of: — – first degree premeditated murder — - shooting at or into a building — - fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer at high speed — – possession of a firearm by a convicted delinquent under 24 years of age The shooting that ultimately claimed the life of 70-year-old Myra Haynes happened June 24 before a high-speed chase. The chase ended with a PIT maneuver on the Highway 90 bridge over Escambia Bay. Three suspects — Ethridge, Terrance Gross Jr. and Trevion Moton — jumped off the bridge. Morton died from the jump, and Etheridge was captured. Gross Jr. remains in Webb County Jail in Texas awaiting extradition back to Escambia County on several warrants related to the shooting. Etheridge remains in the Escambia County Jail without bond awaiting arraignment on Friday.  Read More →

Blue Angels Select Officers for 2025 Show Season

The U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, selected five new officers to join the team for the 2025 air show season. The squadron selected two F/A-18E/F Super Hornet pilots, a C-130J Super Hercules pilot, an Events Coordinator and a Flight Surgeon to replace outgoing team members. By the start of the 2025 show season, these five officers will join the ranks of the U.S. Navy’s most elite aviation officers, ground support officers, and enlisted maintenance personnel already serving on the team. “It’s always a challenge selecting new officers for the team because we have so many highly qualified applicants,” said Cdr. Alex Armatas, commanding officer and flight leader of the Blue Angels.“We are thrilled to introduce the new officers for the 2025 show season and excited to see what each of them bring to our demonstration team in 2025.” Each year, the Blue Angels select finalists to interview at the team’s home base of Naval Air Station (NAS) Pensacola, Fla., during the week of the Pensacola Beach Air Show; selections are made at the conclusion of that week. This year’s Pensacola Beach Air Show took place July 6-8. The selected 2025 officers include: F/A-18E/F Demonstration Pilots: - Maj. Brandon Wilkins, from Beaufort, South Carolina, is currently assigned to Marine Aircraft Group (MAG) 31. He graduated from The Citadel in 2007. - Maj. Scott Laux, from Chantilly, Virginia is currently assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 125. He graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 2012. Events Coordinator: - Lcdr. Lilly Montana, from Vienna, Virgina, is currently assigned to VT-86. She graduated from Auburn University in 2010. C-130J Demonstration Pilot: - Maj. Joshua Horman, from Smithville, Missouri, is currently assigned to VMGR-252. He graduated from William Jewell College in 2009. Flight Surgeon: - Cmdr. Jen Murr, from Jackson Center, Ohio, is currently assigned to VR-56. She graduated from Xavier University in 2002. New team members will report to the squadron in September for a two-month turnover period. Upon completion of the 2024 show season, which concludes in November with the Blue Angels Homecoming Air Show at NAS Pensacola, the team will embark on a rigorous five-month training program at NAS Pensacola and Naval Air Facility El Centro, Calif. The mission of the Blue Angels is to showcase the teamwork and professionalism of the United States Navy and Marine Corps through flight demonstrations and community outreach while inspiring a culture of excellence and service to country.  Read More →

ECSO: McDavid Woman Claims Crockpot ‘Magically Makes Meth”, Charged With Child Neglect

A McDavid woman ha been arrested on battery and child neglect charges. Courtney Nicole Calder, 34, was charged with felony child neglect and misdemeanor battery. According to an Escambia County Sheriff’s Office report, Calder pushed a woman to the ground, causing her to fall onto a child, leaving a bump on the back of his head when he fell into a hardwood floor. The woman that was allegedly pushed told deputies that she was in a hallway to help her grandchild when Calder started screaming at her and then pushed her with two hands, causing her to fall on the child. Deputies noted in their report that the child had a bump on the back of his head that was evaluated and cleared by Escambia County EMS. “I then spoke with Courtney Calder who started talking about a crock pot on her property that magically makes meth and somehow introduces it into her house and how her (relative) is trying to steal her children from her,” the responding deputy wrote in his report. Calder was not accused of any drug-related crimes during the incident. Calder was arrested on scene, and the Department of Children and Families abuse hotline was notified, the report states. She remained in the Escambia County Jail Monday morning with bond set at $4,000.  Read More →

Driver’s License, Tag, Tax Collector Services This Week In Walnut Hill, Century

Driver’s license and other tax collector services will be available in Walnut Hill and Century this week. The Escambia County Tax Collector will be at the: Walnut Hill Community Center on Wednesday, July 17 from 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 17 from 10 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. at the Walnut Hill Community Center. Billy G. Ward Courthouse in Century on Thursday, July 18 from 9:30 a.m. until 2:30 p.m. Mobile Licensing and Identification Office (MILO) is a fully functional tax collector office on wheels, offering a range of services. The mobile unit provides a convenient method to renew a driver license, obtain a replacement driver license, conversion/reciprocation of out-of-state license, change a name or address on a current driver license or identification card, and get a first-time identification card. In addition to licensing services, the mobile unit also provides an opportunity to renew or replace a vehicle registration, receive a parking placard, transfer a title, pay property taxes, and apply for a business tax receipt. Written and driving tests are not available from the MILO unit. The Walnut Hill Community Center, also known as the “Ruritan Building”, is at 7850 Highway 97, just north of Ernest Ward Middle School and the fire department. Pictured: The Escambia Tax Collector’s MILO at the Walnut Hill Community Center on June 11. NorthEscambia.com photo, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Florida Gas Prices Hold Steady Over Last Week

Florida gas prices held steady on average over the last week. Florida’s average was $3.51, unchanged from a week ago and up nearly a quarter over the last month. The average price per gallon in Escambia County was $3.23, up a penny from one week ago. In Pensacola, a low of $3.02 was available Sunday night at a station on East Nine Mile Road, and North Escambia was as low as $3.05 at a station on South Highway 29. NorthEscambia.com file photo, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Register Now For Northview Chiefs Football Camp

Northview Football will host a Youth Football Camp July 18-19 from 5-7 p.m. each evening. Camp attendees will play and learn from Northview coaching staff and players. Pre-registration is $50 or register day of the camp for $60. A t-shirt is included for all campers. Activities Include: Position Drills – Learn proper technique for each camper’s position. Agility Drills – Learn different footwork, speed, and ball catching drills. Offensive/Defensive Groups – Learn how to run different formations and plays. Tackling – Learn blocking and safe tackling techniques. Chief Ball – Fun team competition at the end of camp. Pre-register using Venmo to the NHS Quarterback Club @NarthviewHS-Chiefs Cash or check payable to Northview High School accepted on the day of the camp.  Read More →

Wahoos Drop Back-and-Forth Road Finale

written by Carter Bainbridge The Pensacola Blue Wahoos (49-37) fell to the Rocket City Trash Pandas (43-43) in a tightly contested road series finale on Sunday afternoon. Riding the momentum of six consecutive wins, the Wahoos took an immediate first-inning lead. A two-out fielding error by Rocket City left fielder Orlando Martinez opened the door for Pensacola designated hitter Zach Zubia, who belted his second home run of the series to put the Wahoos ahead 2-0. Pensacola struggled for additional offense against Rocket City starter Chase Chaney, who settled into a rhythm throughout a four-inning outing. Meanwhile, the Trash Pandas chipped away against Blue Wahoos starter Jonathan Bermúdez (6.0 IP, 8 H, 3 R, 2 ER, 2 BB, 2 K). In the bottom of the third, a pair of Trash Panda singles and a passed ball set up second baseman Arol Vera, who hit a sacrifice fly to score center fielder Nelson Rada and cut the Wahoos’ lead to 2-1. In the Rocket City fourth, two walks and a single loaded the bases for catcher Myles Emmerson, who swatted his second of four hits on the day to score two runs and give the Trash Pandas a 3-2 lead. Neither team would score again until the seventh when Pensacola third baseman Dalvy Rosario hit his first home run of the year off Rocket City righthander Brett Kerry (W, 1-0) to tie the game 3-3. In the top of the ninth, Pensacola had an opportunity to take a late lead but stranded two runners aboard. In the bottom of the ninth, righthander Raffi Vizcaíno (L, 4-3) ran into early trouble. Rocket City third baseman Eric Wagaman led off the inning with a check-swing single into right, then advanced to second on a fielding error by Wahoos right fielder Jacob Berry. Right fielder Tucker Flint then reached base on a third-strike wild pitch. With runners at the corners and nobody out, Vizcaíno struck out the next two batters before allowing a walk-off single to Nelson Rada. The 4-3 defeat snaps the Wahoos’ six-game winning streak and an 11-game winning streak at Toyota Field. Despite the loss, Pensacola ends the week with a 5-1 road series victory. The Blue Wahoos return home on Friday, July 19 to face the Mississippi Braves. First pitch from Blue Wahoos Stadium is scheduled for 6:05 p.m.  Read More →

Walnut Hill Man Was The Boss Of The Pensacola Beach Air Show. Here’s A Behind The Scenes Look.

A Walnut Hill man was the boss of it all at the Pensacola Beach Air Show. The air boss. The air boss controls the schedule for all the aerial acts, mass formations, high-speed jet demonstrations and pyrotechnics at every show. Air Boss Paul Entrekin has the primary responsibility for coordinating all air show operations within the demonstration area and plays a critical role in ensuring a safe, efficient, and entertaining air show every year. All of this while also meeting the latest standard air show regulations. And he’s been doing it for 31 years. “I’m sort of the ringmaster of the circus or the orchestra leader if you will. I’m the one that holds the baton while everyone else makes beautiful music,” Entrekin said from his home in Walnut Hill. “I’m the guy that’s responsible for the safety of flight of all the performers, making sure they’re safe in the air and that all our spectators are safe on the ground.” “If everything goes smoothly and according to plan it’s very simple. But when we have unexpected issues, such as intruders in the air space, or any number of mechanical or physiological issues with the pilots, then things get ramped up a little bit and that’s where I have to earn my bacon as it were.” “It’s fun. It’s a lot of fun. I’ve been doing it for such a long time now, it’s second nature, and I work with a really, really good cadre of individuals,” he said. “The civilian performers at the Santa Rosa Island Authority hires are top-notch folks, and of course, the Blues. Nobody does it better than they do.” For the Pensacola Beach Air Show, he has a bird’s eye view of the beach right at the center of the show on a scissor lift about 30 feet in the air with a multitude of communications devices that allow him to talk to beach rescue responders, the Coast Guard or talk to the planes that are flying — except for the Blue Angels. He said with both the Navy’s Blue Angels and the Air Force Thunderbirds, they operate on their own discrete UHF frequency. “No one, and I mean no one including the air boss is allowed. We can monitor that frequency, but we’re not allowed to, to talk or say a single word on that frequency. If, if for example, I saw something that needed to be communicated to the boss, Number 8 (the events coordinator) and I are in very close proximity and I would tell Number 8 that we have a situation where I need for them to terminate maneuver. He would then relay that to the maintenance officer or Mo. And Mo is the only one that has direct calm with the boss. And he would say, hey boss, we’ve got this situation needs to be to terminate after this maneuver is safe and complete.” “The exception to that is if I call a ‘knock it off’. A knock it off is a safety of flight issue that means stop what you are doing this very second. I would pass my knock it off to Number 8 who would pass it to the Mo,” he said. “They would stop what they’re doing, and they would orbit and then we talk it about it later.” Even after three decades, there’s one special moment in the Blue Angels’ performance that is still his favorite. “When they cross at center point where timing and altitude are absolutely critical. And they are their own worst critics. They scrutinize down to the nth degree, and there is no such thing as a perfect show. They are always striving to do it just a little bit better. When from my vantage point, when I see what’s an almost perfect hit, meaning that the solos have arrived at center point at exactly the same time at the perfect altitude.” “When it looks like just a tremendously close call usually that makes me grin. I like that part of the show best, he said. Interest in the Blue Angels is up this year following “The Blue Angels” movie on Amazon Prime. And Entrekin says it’s actually a great movie that accurately represents our hometown Blue Angels. “”I thought it was great. (Producer) Greg Wooldridge was one of my favorite bosses of the teams back in the day and he was an executive producer for that, and I think he did a fantastic job,” he said about the movie. “His fingerprints were all over the thing, and you could really tell that an insider had steered the production of that film. And so, I thought it was very well done.” A 1976 graduate of Auburn University, Entrekin was commissioned as a U.S. Marine Corps officer in 1977 and designated a Naval Aviator in 1980. During his military career he became carrier qualified, flying both rotary-wing and fixed-wing aircraft. He was an instructor pilot until leaving active duty in 1986 and then retained reserve status with the Defense Intelligence Agency as a clandestine operative until retiring after Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm in 1991. No stranger to the air show world nor pushing boundaries, Entrekin soon was nicknamed “The Bandit,” after becoming the first civilian pilot to own and fly a Russian MiG aircraft. He founded Entrekin Aviation as a full-time air show pilot in 1986. He holds multiple U.S. and world airspeed records and is recognized on the National Aviation and Space Exploration Wall of Honor. Entrekin also flew for Delta Air Lines for 30 years before his retirement, and over the years has authored a number of books including, “Mighty Hands,” his bestseller “Mr. MiG,” and his most recent children’s book entitled, “Jasper and the Christmas Faeries” set at his Walnut Hill ranch. Pictured top: Pensacola Beach Air Show Air Boss Paul Entrekin. Pictured below: Paul Entrekin and his wife Lisa discuss their book “Jasper and the Christmas Faeries” with NorthEscambia.com just before a recent Christmas holiday. NorthEscambia.com and submitted photo, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Photos: Blue Angels Wow Crowds At Saturday Air Show

The Pensacola Beach Air Show was delayed by weather for about an hour Saturday afternoon. The Blue Angels took the skies over the beach about an hour late due to threat of rain and lightning. For a photo gallery, click or tap here. NorthEscambia.com photos by Perry Doggrell and Nikki Purvis, click to enlarge.  Read More →

Photos: Cat Cafe Kitten Adoptions Offered At Century Branch Library

The Century Library hosted a Cat Cafe Saturday with the Escambia County Department of Animal Welfare. It was the e purr-fect opportunity for library patrons to meet several kittens a relaxed and welcoming environment. For a photo gallery, click here. The Escambia animal shelter is offering free adoptions for cats and dogs one year or older through Wednesday, July 31. Puppies are available for $50 and kittens are $25. An $11 licensing fee will be applied to all adoptions for Escambia County residents. The Escambia County Animal Welfare and Adoption Center is located at 200 W. Fairfield Drive. Hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 12-5 p.m., and Saturday from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.  Read More →