Escambia Sheriff’s Office Releases Video From 2019 Terrorist Attack At NAS Pensacola
October 18, 2021
The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office has released a video compilation of the events that unfolded during the December 6, 2019, terrorist attack on NAS Pensacola
Sheriff Chip Simmons said the video will “pay honor to those that list their lives that day, and also to say thank you to those who risk their lives to serve and protect our community”.
The video was released as the ECSO filled a “large public records request” for video from that day.
The video is below. It contains graphic images, sounds, language and intense situations. It may be disturbing to some individuals. Viewer discretion is advised.
Drowning Death Of 4-Year Old Autistic Boy Near Jay Was Accidental, SRSO Says
October 18, 2021
The Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office says the drowning death of a 4-year old autistic boy Saturday in Jay is being investigated as accidental.
The young boy’s foster parent told deputies he had locked and barricaded the front door of their house on Cozart Lane due to his autism. He said the boy was taking a nap, but when he checked on him about 10 minutes later he was missing. The foster dad and another relative searched the property.
The victim was found about 150 yards from the residence in pond, according to deputies. The foster dad attempted CPR, until the fire department arrived. The young boy was airlifted to Sacred Heart Hospital by LifeFlight where he was pronounced deceased.
Cantonment Woman Arrested After Chase, Shots Fired And Three Hour Standoff With Deputies In Alabama
October 18, 2021
A Cantonment woman was arrested in Baldwin County early Sunday morning after what was described as a shots fired incident that involved a SWAT response.
Amanda Nicole Thompson, 37, fled from Escambia County (FL) Sheriff’s Office deputies late Saturday night when they attempted to stop her due to outstanding warrants. The pursuit crossed from Muscogee Road onto Highway 112 in Alabama. She came to a stop in field near Highway 112 and Tower Road, nearly nine miles into Alabama. She allegedly fired a handgun several times, prompting the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office to respond with SWAT and K-9 units, and close the roadway.
Authorities said Thompson barricaded herself in her vehicle. After about three hours of negotiations, she exited the vehicle early Sunday morning with the firearm.
“Less lethal means were used, along with a K-9 to take the suspect into custody,” BCSO said. Thompson was transported to the emergency room to be treated for dog bite before being booked into jail.
Thompson is being held without bond, charged with interference with custody, resisting arrest, certain persons forbidden to possess a pistol and reckless endangerment. She is also being held awaiting extradition to Florida to face charges in Escambia County, Florida.
The interference with custody charge related to a previous incident in which she transported her child between Baldwin County and Florida, according to authorities. The child was located and returned to a relative last week.
Boil Water Notice Issued For Cottage Hill Water Works Customers On Williams Ditch Road
October 18, 2021
Cottage Hill Water Works has issued a precautionary boil water notice Monday afternoon for Williams Ditch Road following a water main break.
Cottage Hill Water Works advises residents of the area that all water used for drinking, cooking, making ice, brushing teeth, or washing dishes be boiled. A rolling boil of one minute is sufficient, or as an alternative bottled water may be used.
This precautionary boil water notice will remain in effect until a bacteriological survey shows that the water is safe to drink.
If you have any questions you may contact the office at (850) 968-5485
IMPACT 100 Awards Over $1.1 Million In Grants To 11 Community Groups
October 18, 2021
IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area, a women’s philanthropic organization, awarded grants totaling $1.12 million dollars Sunday afternoon to 11 nonprofit groups.
Each organization received a grant of $101,820.
The 11 grant recipients selected by IMPACT 100 are:
ARTS, CULTURE & HISTORY
- Pensacola Children’s Chorus, Inc. –Project: PUMP UP THE VOLUME: Building Confidence with Reliable Sound Equipment
- Pensacola Lighthouse Association, I-nc. dba Pensacola Lighthouse & Museum — Project: Shining Light on Buried History
EDUCATION
- Escambia County Public Schools Foundation for Excellence, Inc. – Project: Pensacola High School Innovation Center Revitalization
- United Methodist Children’s Home dba Embrace Florida Kids – Project: A Higher Education Home: Wrap-around Support for Vulnerable Youth for Collegiate Success
ENVIRONMENT, RECREATION & PRESERVATION
- The Arc Gateway, Inc. – Project: The Arc Gateway SHRED WORKS
- Bream Fishermen Association, Inc. and PYC Satori Foundation, Inc. — Project: Taking the Coast to the Kids – Improving our Waterways through Science and Recreation
FAMILY
- Martha’s Vineyard Foundation, Inc. dba Vineyard Family House — Project: Caring for Families in Crisis
- Rally Foundation, Inc. – Project: Rally Resource Room powered by IMPACT100
HEALTH & WELLNESS
- Pace Center for Girls, Inc. – Project: Girls Going Places
- United for a Good Cause, Inc – Project: Hope Squad Peer-to-Peer Suicide Prevention for Schools
- United Service Organization, Inc. – Project: Pop-Up USO
“Even as Covid 19 has continued to be a factor in 2021, IMPACT members were able to choose to meet at either in-person Focus Area Committees or virtual Focus Area Committees,” said Roz Leahy, president of IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area. “Hundreds of IMPACT 100 members participated in the process to review each grant application, conduct site visits to all applicants, and select finalists from each Focus Area Committee. We are so thankful for our members who participated and to our volunteer board who facilitated both the in-person and virtual committee meetings, enabling IMPACT 100 to continue serving the community we love.”
With 1,120 members this year, IMPACT 100 was able to award $101,820 each to eleven nonprofit organizations in our community for a total impact of $1,120,020. In the 18 years since its inception, IMPACT 100 Pensacola Bay Area has awarded 131 grants to 91 nonprofit organizations totaling $13,950,000.
Molino Native Serves As Member Of U.S. Navy’s ‘Silent Service’
October 18, 2021
A Molino native is stationed at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay, homeport to all East Coast ballistic-missile and guided-missile submarines.
Seaman Jackob Braun, a 2020 Northview High School graduate, joined the Navy this year.
“I did the Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps in high school and felt like the Navy was a solid foundation to continue my career,” said Braun.
Today, Braun serves as a missile technician, who is currently in training to learn about his job field.
According to Braun, the values required to succeed in the military are similar to those found in Molino.
“I learned values like honor, courage and commitment from my hometown,” said Braun. “I had self-discipline before boot camp, so I was prepared for what was to come.”
Known as America’s “Silent Service,” the Navy’s submarine force operates a large fleet of technically advanced vessels. These submarines are capable of conducting rapid defensive and offensive operations around the world, in furtherance of U.S. national security.
There are three basic types of submarines: fast-attack submarines (SSN), ballistic-missile submarines (SSBN) and guided-missile submarines (SSGN).
Fast-attack submarines are designed to hunt down and destroy enemy submarines and surface ships; strike targets ashore with cruise missiles; carry and deliver Navy SEALs; conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions; and engage in mine warfare.
The Navy’s ballistic-missile submarines, often referred to as “boomers,” serve as a strategic deterrent by providing an undetectable platform for submarine-launched ballistic missiles. SSBNs are designed specifically for stealth, extended patrols and the precise delivery of missiles.
Guided-missile submarines provide the Navy with unprecedented strike and special operation mission capabilities from a stealthy, clandestine platform. Each SSGN is capable of carrying 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, plus a complement of heavyweight torpedoes to be fired through four torpedo tubes.
As a member of the submarine force, Braun is part of a rich 121-year history of the U.S. Navy’s most versatile weapons platform, capable of taking the fight to the enemy in the defense of America and its allies.
Serving in the Navy means Braun is part of a team that is taking on new importance in America’s focus on rebuilding military readiness, strengthening alliances and reforming business practices in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“The Navy ensures national security through projection of power around the world,” said Braun. “We can’t do everything from the United States. We need ships around the world ready to take action when needed.”
With more than 90 percent of all trade traveling by sea, and 95 percent of the world’s international phone and internet traffic carried through underwater fiber optic, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity and security of the United States is directly linked to a strong and ready Navy.
A major component of that maritime security is homeported at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay.
“We do two big things here in King’s Bay: we send SSBNs on strategic deterrence patrols and we forward deploy our guided missile submarines overseas,” said Rear Adm. John Spencer, Commander, Submarine Group Ten. “This work is essential to uphold the number one mission of the Navy: strategic deterrence. And this is the only home port for both of these types of submarines on the East Coast.”
Strategic deterrence is the Nation’s ultimate insurance program, and for decades, Kings Bay has been home to Ohio Class SSBN ballistic-missile submarines. Beginning in 2028, the new Columbia Class ballistic-missile submarines will arrive and provide continuous sea-based strategic deterrence into the 2080s.
As Braun and other sailors continue to train and perform the missions they are tasked with, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“A lot of people don’t ever serve, but someone has to,” added Braun. “Someone has to step up. So many have served before us, and now it’s my turn.”
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Amanda Rae Moreno, Navy Office of Community Outreach. Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Amanda Rae Moreno for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
New AT&T Tower Now Under Construction In Century Park
October 18, 2021
Construction is underway on a new 305 foot tall AT&T cell tower located in a Century park, and that means added revenue for the town.
Earlier this year, the town council approved a five-year lease with options out to 40 years with Diamond Towers for an AT&T tower on a parcel of land in the town’s Anthony Pleasant Park off West Highway 4. It’s a small area tucked away essentially at the back of the park.
Diamond Towers had leased the property at $1,000 for a year. Now that they are moving forward with construction, the lease payment has automatically increased to $1,500 per month for at least five years under the terms of the contract. There will be another $500 per month due for any additional cellular providers collocated on the tower in the future. There are annual options for slight increases.
City officials have expressed their excitement over the new service from AT&T, as most other carriers have poor service within in the town.
Construction on the tower is expected to take just a few more weeks. The tower area will be fenced to prevent access by those using the park.
Pictured: Work Friday afternoon on a new cell tower located at Century’s Anthony Pleasant Park. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Florida Gas Prices Near Steady Over The Past Week
October 18, 2021
Florida gas prices were near steady over the past week, but AAA says an increase could be on the way.
The state average of $3.18 per gallon is a half-cent more than this time last week.
The Escambia County average stood at $3.19 Sunday night. A North Escambia low of $3.15 could be found at two Cantonment stations.
Although gas prices held relatively steady last week, another increase could be on the way. Crude and gasoline futures prices rose again last week, setting new 2021 highs. The price of U.S. crude increased 4% last week. Friday’s settlement of $82.28 per barrel was $3 per barrel more than the week before. Meanwhile gasoline futures prices increased 12 cents on the NYMEX. Wholesale gasoline prices reached a level that — if sustained — could drag the state average above $3.20 per gallon, according to AAA.
“It appears the pain at the pump is going to get worse before it gets better,” said Mark Jenkins spokesman, AAA — The Auto Club Group. “Florida drivers are likely to face another round of rising prices, as global supply concerns keep upward pressure on the price of crude. It’s unclear when the relief at the pump will come, but these elevated prices at the pump are likely to linger through the winter months.”
Reimagine Cantonment Blesses Those In Need With Food, Clothing And More (With Photo Gallery)
October 17, 2021
The hearts and lives of hundreds of area residents in need were touched during Reimagine Cantonment at Carver Park on Saturday.
The faith-based event included a 20,000 pound food giveaway, lunch, fishing lessons with free fishing rods, baby diapers, HIV testing, clothing, haircuts and health tests. Absolutely everything was free. There were also be free children’s activities, including train rides, inflatables, face painting, games, popcorn, and a coloring contest with three participants winning a new bicycle.
For a photo gallery, click or tap here.
Reimagine Cantonment is a project of Doers of the Word Ministry and was sponsored by numerous churches and other organizations, including NorthEscambia.com.
NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
These Are The Road Constructions Spots That Might Slow You Down This Week
October 17, 2021
Drivers will encounter traffic disruptions on the following state roads in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties as crews perform construction and maintenance activities.
Escambia County
- Pensacola Bay Bridge (U.S. 98) Replacement - Drivers will encounter alternating lane closures and shifts on the Pensacola Bay Bridge from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 17 through Saturday, Oct. 23. Crews will be using lanes on the current bridge as a platform to pour concrete decks for the westbound (Gulf Breeze to Pensacola) structure.
- 17th Avenue Interchange construction – 17th Avenue southbound is closed at Gregory Street. Access to the Pensacola Visitor’s Center and the boat launch remains open from 17th Avenue through Thursday, Oct. 21. The closure and reopen details are:
- 17th Avenue north and southbound, from north of the CSX railroad trestle (Graffiti Bridge) to Bayfront Parkway, will be closed Thursday, Oct. 21 at 8 p.m. until Monday, Oct. 25 at 5 a.m. The closure will allow crews to complete work to open the new roundabout at 17th Avenue.
- The new 17th Avenue interchange in Pensacola is scheduled to open by 5 a.m. Monday, Oct. 25. The new interchange includes a flyover that connects westbound traffic exiting the Pensacola Bay Bridge with East Gregory Street and Bayfront Parkway. Beneath the flyover, a new single-lane roundabout has replaced the traffic signal formerly at 17th Avenue to provide seamless travel between the bridge, 17th Avenue north and southbound, East Gregory Street, and Bayfront Parkway.
- North Ninth Avenue (State Road (S.R.) 289) Carpenters Creek Bridge Replacement- All travel lanes are temporarily shifted to the northbound side of the bridge as crews replace the southbound portion of the structure. Additionally, drivers may encounter intermittent temporary lane closures between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 18 through Friday, Oct. 22 to allow crews to mobilize materials and equipment.
- West Cervantes Street (U.S. 90) Pedestrian Safety Improvement – Drivers will encounter intermittent lane closures between the following locations as crews perform median improvements and install poles for pedestrian traffic signals.
- D and N Streets (inside lane closures)
- P and Q Streets (inside lane closures)
- Y and Shoemaker Streets (inside lane closures)
- Q and N Streets (intermittent outside lane closure)
- Kirk and R Streets (intermittent outside lane closure)
- Nine Mile Road (U.S. 90) Widening from Pine Forest Road (S.R. 297) to U.S. 29 – Drivers will encounter intermittent east and westbound traffic shifts between Pine Forest Road and U.S. 29 as crews place final asphalt and striping.
- Nine Mile Road (U.S. 90) Widening from Beulah Road to Pine Forest Road (S.R. 297) – Drivers will encounter temporary intermittent shifts to allow crews to pave turn lanes, side streets, driveways, and the on- and off-ramps to I-10. Access to all businesses will be maintained, traffic flaggers and signage will be in place to direct traffic.
- Sorrento Road (S.R. 292) Intersection Improvements at Innerarity Point (County Road (C.R.) 292A) – Motorists can expect daytime shoulder closures the week of Monday, Oct. 18 as crews place a watermain.
- U.S. 29 Widening from Interstate 10 (I-10) to Nine Mile Road (U.S. 90) – Drivers will encounter intermittent lane closures and shifts from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. as crews perform paving operations.
- S.R. 291 (Davis Street) Routine Utility Maintenance at Texar Drive Intersection – Motorists can expect intermittent lane closures on the outside eastbound lane of Texar Drive at the Davis Street (S.R. 291) intersection, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 23 as crews upgrade electrical equipment.
Santa Rosa County
- Pensacola Bay Bridge (U.S. 98) Replacement – Drivers will encounter alternating lane closures and lane shifts on the Pensacola Bay Bridge from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 17 through Saturday, Oct. 23. Crews will be using lanes on the current bridge as a platform to pour concrete decks for the westbound (Gulf Breeze to Pensacola) structure. Additional work will include installation of pier lighting.
- I-10 Resurfacing East of S.R. 281 (Avalon Boulevard) to East of S.R. 87 – Motorists can expect intermittent lane closures on the Blackwater River Bridge from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 17 through Thursday, Oct. 21 as crews perform paving operations.
All activities are weather-dependent and may be delayed or rescheduled in the event of inclement weather.
File photo