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Saturday, May 3, 2025

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Orlando Woman Charged With DUI With Serious Bodily Injury After Crash Critically Injuring 2 Young Children In Frostproof Crash

32-year-old Ashauntie Cox (DOB 2/15/1991) of Orlando, who caused serious bodily harm to two children in her vehicle while fleeing from two crashes and driving under the influence, was arrested in Polk County on Friday, May 19, 2023, and charged with several felonies.

According to witnesses and information developed during the investigation, the first crash occurred around 8:00 p.m. on US Hwy 27 at the intersection with US Hwy 98 near Frostproof. Cox was driving a blue Kia southbound on Hwy 27 when she struck a grey Chevy Silverado pickup truck and then fled at a high rate of speed. As she continued to recklessly speed south down Hwy 27, weaving in and out of slower moving traffic, she rear-ended a 2016 Honda CRV while trying to pass between that SUV and the vehicle next to it which were both also going southbound. The victim driving the CRV was taken to Sebring Hospital, where he was treated and released with minor injuries.

The collision caused Cox’s vehicle to flip several times, ejecting two Orlando children, ages 5 and 8 years old. Both sustained significant injuries, and they were taken to Tampa General Hospital where they are both in critical condition. A 27-year-old female passenger was also seriously injured along her spinal cord, hip, and back. She remains at Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center in stable condition.

When deputies arrived at the scene of the crash, they detected the odor of marijuana and located a bottle of tequila in Cox’s vehicle. Cox was transported to the hospital and interview by deputies. Cox told deputies they were driving from Orlando to Avon Park to celebrate the 5-year-old’s kindergarten graduation. She admitted to smoking marijuana earlier in the day, and to having four shots of tequila. Her blood was drawn for further analysis, and she displayed several signs of impairment. 

She was booked into the Polk County Jail and is being charged with:

·        Three counts DUI with serious bodily injury (F3)

·        Two counts negligent child abuse with great bodily harm (F2)

·        Reckless driving (F3)

·        One count DUI with property damage (M1)

·        One count DUI (M2)

Further charges are pending the outcome of the investigation. 

“This woman had no regard for anyone’s life when she got behind the wheel intoxicated and then drove recklessly down a major highway, but what’s worse is the blatant disregard she had for the lives of the innocent children in her car. I expect a successful prosecution to hold her accountable—and let’s hope she loses her driving privileges if she’s released from jail or prison. Please keep these babies and their families in your prayers.” – Grady Judd, Sheriff

Lake Wales Marks Two Years Since Quadruple Homicide That Shook the City

On May 3, 2023, the Lake Wales community was devastated by the loss of four cherished individuals: 40-year-old Marlene Pizarro and her three children—21-year-old son, 17-year-old daughter Ariana, and 11-year-old daughter. The family were victim of domestic violence after Pizarro’s boyfriend murdered the then for still unknown reasons. The boyfriend Al Stenson was killed after a standoff with SWAT units in Sanford, Florida. Two years later, their memories continue to inspire love, resilience, and unity among those who knew them.

Marlene was a dedicated special education teacher at Lake Wales High School, remembered for her compassion and unwavering commitment to her students. Her eldest daughter, Ariana, was a bright student set to graduate that spring. The youngest, just 11, was known for her joyful spirit and love for learning. Their lives were tragically cut short in an act of senseless violence.

In the aftermath, the community rallied together, holding vigils and memorials to honor the family’s legacy. Flowers, candles, and heartfelt messages adorned the steps of their home, symbolizing the profound impact they had on those around them. Marlene’s brother, Julian Ramos, described her as the family’s pillar, especially after the passing of their father. He expressed a desire to lay the family to rest in Juncos, Puerto Rico, beside their grandfather, a testament to their deep familial bonds.

The tragedy also highlighted the importance of community support and mental health awareness. Lake Wales Charter Schools provided counselors to assist grieving students and staff, emphasizing the need for collective healing.

As we mark the second anniversary of this heartbreaking event, we remember Marlene and her children not for the tragedy that befell them, but for the love, kindness, and joy they brought into the world. Their legacy serves as a poignant reminder of the strength of community and the enduring power of love. In their memory, consider lighting a candle, sharing a story, or supporting local initiatives that promote family safety and mental health awareness. Together, we can honor their lives and ensure that their light continues to shine.

In Loving Memory of Glenda Wyrosdick Griffin, 71, of Lake Wales

Glenda Wyrosdick Griffin of Lake Wales passed away Thursday, May 5, 2025 at AdventHealth Lake Wales under the care of Vitas Hospice.

She was born April 11, 1954 in Lake Wales to the late Charles and Mary Sue Wyrosdick. Glenda was a retired medical technician for Spring Haven Senior Living and Brookdale Assisted Living Facility in Winter Haven. There was a special place in her heart for her dogs and she dearly loved her husband and friends.

Glenda was preceded in death by her sister, Jane Wyrosdick; and brother, Eddie Wyrosdick. She is survived by her husband of almost 30 years, Robert David Griffin; daughters, Jennifer Evans of Auburndale, Selena Rae Harrison of Jacksonville, Kandie Griffin of Lake Wales; son, Kenneth Joe Griffin and wife Julie of Pfafftown, North Carolina; brother, Tim Wyrosdick; 16 grandchildren; and several great-grandchildren.

No services are scheduled at this time. 

18-Year-Old Suspect Arrested in Robbery from Child; Local Business Owners Replace Stolen Cash for Victim

 

Lake Wales, FL – On April 25, 2025, an 11-year-old child participating in a school fundraiser was robbed in the downtown area of Lake Wales while selling chocolate. The child was approached by a man later identified as 18-year-old Isaiyah Cabrera of Davenport. After the child informed Cabrera he had collected $107 in donations, Cabrera snatched an envelope containing the money and fled the scene on an electric scooter, running over the child’s foot in the process.

Lake Wales Police Department detectives responded quickly, canvassing local businesses for surveillance footage. While speaking with staff at The Ranch Taproom and Coffeehouse, detectives encountered an extraordinary act of kindness. Jessica Garrett and Cathy Garrett, who are daughter and mother, as well as co-owners of Viola Vines and The Ranch Coffeehouse in Downtown Lake Wales, were so moved by the incident, they combined their personal funds to replace the stolen money. According to a statement from LWPD, their gesture turned the child’s distress into tears of joy.

Jessica says that making the child whole was “the right thing to do.”

On April 29, 2025, officers identified and arrested Cabrera. At the time of his arrest, he was found in possession of a loaded .25 caliber handgun, which he admitted to carrying during the robbery. Cabrera has been charged with Robbery by Sudden Snatching While in Possession of a Firearm, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, and Violation of Probation. He was on probation at the time of the incident for a previous theft offense.

The Lake Wales Police Department commends the swift actions of its officers and the compassionate response from the community members at The Ranch Taproom and Coffeehouse. Their support helped bring resolution and comfort to the young victim.

 

 

Vehicle Fire Sets Yard Ablaze, Shuts Down Scenic Hwy

Photo credit: Maria Iannucci, LWD

At approximately 2:28 PM on Friday, May 2, 2025, a vehicle fire was reported at 1007 Scenic Highway N. in Lake Wales, just north of Ridge Manor Drive.

Photo Credit: Maria Iannucci, LWD

When we arrived at the scene, the majority of the front yard was on fire. Black smoke could be seen from a great distance. A smaller vehicle, in addition to vegetation and close proximity, was engulfed in flames.

Video Credit: Maria Iannucci, LWD

Polk County Fire Rescue Public Information Officer, Nathaniel Gale, says that crews arrived within a few minutes of the initial call. The fire was fully extinguished by 2:50 PM.

Photo Credit: Maria Iannucci, LWD

No injuries were reported, and the structure of the house was not affected by the fire. The incident is under investigation.

In Loving Memory of Larry R. Farris, 77, of Frostproof

Larry R. Farris of Frostproof passed away Wednesday, April 30, 2025 at AdventHealth Sebring.

He was born August 1, 1947 in Haleyville, Alabama to the late Billy and Mary Farris; he moved to Frostproof from Wauchula many years ago. Larry was a retired welder and served with the United States Army in Vietnam. He was an avid hunter and fisherman. He enjoyed golfing and joking with people.

Larry was preceded in death by his wife, Glenda “Sue” Farris is 2003. He is survived by his sons, Jimmy Farris and wife Nina of Ashland City, Tennessee, Byron Farris and wife Candace of Frostproof, John Farris of Frostproof, Clay Farris of Frostproof; sister, Helen Norwood and husband Bud of Wauchula; 8 grandchildren; and 7 great-grandchildren.

A graveside service will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, May 3, 2025 at Silver Hill Cemetery. 

Statewide Alligator Harvest Program and Alligator Super Hunt Applications Window Opens May 2

Photo credit: Grape Hammock

FWC – The application periods for the Statewide Alligator Harvest Program and the Alligator Super Hunt open Friday, May 2, 2025 at 10 a.m. ET. All applications submitted for the statewide hunt between May 2 and May 12 will have an equal chance of being selected.

You can apply at any county tax collector’s office, through a license agent, or online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com.

You can submit one application for the Statewide Alligator Harvest Program, which allows you to hunt a single alligator management unit or county – if you are randomly selected. Applicants may select from a list of units and counties with an order of preferred priority.

For the Alligator Super Hunt, you can pay to apply as many times as you want to increase your chances of being randomly drawn to hunt at most alligator management units and counties. The Alligator Super Hunt opportunity is a relatively new program, initially launched last year.

Learn more about both opportunities at MyFWC.com/Alligator.

The Ramon Theater Presents Arkansas Trainwreck June 14

The Ramon Theater will present Arkansas Trainwreck on Saturday, June 14, 2025, from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. The theater is located at 15 East Wall Street, Frostproof.

Arkansas Trainwreck, a Senior Bluegrass Band, boasts over 100 years of collective experience. Founded in Little Rock, Arkansas, the band focuses primarily on Folk, Originals, and Bluegrass music, while also performing covers from renowned artists such as the Beatles, Bob Dylan, John Prine, and John Denver.

Alan Stewart, lead vocalist and songwriter, plays guitar, banjo, and serves as the band’s musical director. Having hosted the largest music jam at his Little Rock residence for over 40 years, Alan’s expertise is unparalleled. Julie (Jewels) Shelmire contributes lead and harmonizing vocals, playing bass guitar.

With a background in choir singing from a young age, Julie began playing bass a few years ago, participating in music jams and collaborating with Alan. Barry Lee Spence, on acoustic guitar and lead/harmonizing vocals, studied guitar under notable local musicians Victor Tutlo and Fred Douglas in Chester, Pennsylvania. His performances include appearances on local TV programs and the 1974 Mason Dixon 500 country music show, featuring George Jones and Tammy Wynette. 

Tickets are $10. To purchase tickets, visit https://www.simpletix.com/e/summer-music-nights-arkansas-trainwreck-tickets-215688

In Loving Memory of Terry Lynn Booth, 74, of Lake Wales

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Terry Lynn Booth, 74

Terry Lynn Booth of Lake Wales passed away Friday, April 25, 2025 at his residence.

He was born December 8, 1950 in Fort Pierce to the late Warren and Virginia Booth and he was raised by Warren and Grace Booth. Terry was a retired mechanic and was of the Baptist faith. He served with the United States Army and the United States National Guard. Terry enjoyed working on cars and eating good food. He was always known to help his family and friends and he loved his family deeply. 

Terry is survived by his wife of 23 years, Debra Booth; daughters, Jennifer Gleason and husband Bruce of Valrico, Kristin Collier and husband Robert of Babson Park; son, Jason Booth and wife Shelley of Lake Wales; stepdaughter, Erin Brandon of Lake Wales, Stephanie Richardson and husband Rick of Babson Park, April Johnson and husband David of Lake Wales; brothers, Joe Sims and wife Delores of Bethune, South Carolina, Dennis Booth and wife Cindy of Aiken, South Carolina; sister, Gloria Booth of Lake Wales; many grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.

A visitation will be held from 3:30 PM until 5:00 PM, Thursday, May 1, 2025 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales. A private funeral service will be held for the family. Interment will be held at Cape Canaveral National Cemetery. 

Motorcyclist Killed Last Night in Two-Vehicle Crash on Lake Wales Road

Photo provided by PCSO

Polk County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed in a social media post that motorcyclist was killed Tuesday evening, April 29, 2025, in a two-vehicle crash near Lake Wales. The following information comes from a press release sent by Brian Bruchey, Public Information Officer for PCSO:

Deputies from the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and members of Polk County Fire Rescue were dispatched to the crash on Mammoth Grove Road near Stokes Road at about 9:53 pm.

When first responders arrived, they determined that 38-year old Justin Casey Weyburn of Lake Wales was deceased. Weyburn had been the operator of a black 2017 Harley Davidson motorcycle.

The other person involved in the crash was not injured. He was identified as 41-year old James Keen, Jr. of Lake Wales.

Based on the investigation so far, Weyburn was traveling on his motorcycle eastbound on Mammoth Grove Road.

Meanwhile, Keen was driving a black 2023 Ford F250, and pulling a boat on a trailer.

The Ford was exiting a private driveway onto westbound Mammoth Grove Road. As the turn was being made, the truck entered the eastbound lane, and the two vehicles collided head-on.

Mr. Weyburn was not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

The roadway was closed for three hours.

The investigation remains ongoing.