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
The man who knew no strangers and loved life to the fullest passed away on July 26, 2025 at home surrounded by family. He was known as Bob, Dad, Pop, or Popcorn. He was born in Mitchell, Nebraska on July 4, 1935, to Charles Stanford and Ethel Mae Rowe. Bob grew up in the quaint town of Henry, Nebraska, the youngest of eight children. He spent his elementary years in a one room classroom in Henry. He graduated from high school in Torrington, Wyoming.
Following high school, he enlisted in the US Navy serving in Guam, the Korean War, as a Seabee in addition to playing Navy football as a right guard. After his time serving his country, he moved back to Henry and began his career in the trucking industry that he passionately loved.
Shortly after, he met the love of his life, Judy. They were married on July 3rd, 1958, and spent 67 years building a wonderful life together. They were inseparable. They raised two children, Jay, and Vicki. Their lifelong journey together afforded them the opportunity to live in Wyoming, Colorado, Florida, North Carolina, and Georgia eventually returning to Florida as their final home where they took up residence in River Ranch, Florida. They were surrounded with numerous friends and family members. They were known as Mr. and Mrs. River Ranch. On any given evening, you would find a circle of their friends of all ages pull up in their golfcarts for happy hour at their place. It was the place to be and mingle.
While raising their children in Torrington, Wyoming, Bob and Judy were the original proud owners of Taco John’s. A thriving business that just recently closed.
Bob’s love for trucking and hot rods brought him to eventually own and operate his own antique and classic car transportation company, Top Gun Transport. Bob traveled the country hauling the most exquisite cars for the rich and famous. While attending a car show in Virginia, his career ended when he became a local hero by running after a runaway 18-wheeler that was headed for the interstate. He was able to run and jump on the sideboard of the truck and open the door to force the truck into a pasture saving lives. In the process he sustained a crushed ankle that halted his driving career. Bob was written up in the local paper for his heroic effort. That is the Bob everyone knew and loved. Always willing to do the right thing regardless of the consequences to help others.
Bob’s love for his family was fierce. He fought many health battles through the years and each time battled through them remarkably to be with his family. Bob is survived by his beautiful wife Judy, son Jay (Wava) of River Ranch, FL and daughter, Vicki (Jamie) of Zephyrhills, FL. Bob leaves behind his grandchildren, Ashlie (Jeromy), Brooke, Nicole and Heather and was pre-deceased by his only grandson, Cory. Bob was blessed with eleven great-grandchildren and four great great-grandchildren. He also left behind several nieces and nephews that adored him.
Bob fought hard till the end and was determined to be at his big 90th birthday and 67th wedding anniversary celebration held the end of June. What a wonderful living celebration it was leaving all attending with many special memories watching him enjoy the day, even giving us a last little dance with his bride. And, bidding all a farewell and telling all that he would see them next year. Bob’s sense of humor never left him. He was joking up until his final days.
Bob is predeceased by his wonderful parents and his loving siblings, Marvin, Frank, Dean, Norma Jean, Eva, Marylou, and Doris. What a beautiful Rowe reunion they will have as they all welcome him to his heavenly home.
Bob’s wishes were to celebrate his life and not mourn. He loved life and loved people. If you knew Bob, he would typically greet you with a bigger than life hello and a hug. He would tell you that he was blessed beyond measure and that he was doing better than he deserved to be. That was Bob.
A very special thank you to Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, FL for providing compassionate and quality care during his extensive treatment. To the Veteran’s Administration who provided the upmost respect, equipment, and care. To the Cornerstone Hospice team who cared for Bob in his final weeks. To his daughter, Vicki and daughter-in-law Wava who spent countless hours providing support and care. To Robin Curtis for spending the last 24 hours providing tremendous support to the family. To Pastor Ray Duncan for being with Bob and the family in his final hours. And to the best caregiver, his resilient and beautiful wife, Judy. That little lady never stopped loving or taking care of Bob day and night. Lastly, to all of Bob’s friends at River Ranch and beyond who also provided so much comfort and care.
Respecting Bob’s wishes, there will not be a formal service. We will hold on to the recent memories of his living celebration. In memory of Bob, contributions to the River Ranch Chapel specifically contributing the new children’s church being built would be appreciated. Bob loved and adored all children.
River Ranch Chapel
Children’s Church building fund
30122 River Ranch Boulevard
River Ranch, FL 33867
Our River Ranch legend will continue to live on in our hearts and memories. In your travels, grab a Dairy Queen blizzard in Bob’s memory. It was Bob’s favorite and his most requested item.
Lake Wales, FL – Camp Mack, an iconic symbol of Old Florida, invites RVers, families, boaters, fishermen, hikers, bird/outdoor lovers and airboaters to discover the rich history and vibrant community at the stunning lodge, marina, and RV resort on Lake Kissimmee. The previously named Sports Bar & Grill, Gator Mack’s, has been relaunched as Freshwater Tavern & Grill, with many updates including new ownership.
Mike Joseph, new owner of Freshwater Tavern & Grill, at Camp Mack, Lake Wales
Mike Joseph, the new owner, is working hard to make Freshwater Tavern & Grill a unique spot for locals and visitors alike. With a stage for live music, trivia, bingo or karaoke, there will be plenty of live entertainment to satisfy customers. A full bar, complimented by light fare, TVs, and games like darts give visitors a variety of activities to engage in.
Freshwater’s new interior, photo by Maria Iannucci
The resort itself boasts state-of-the-art amenities, including a 40 room Lodge, spacious RV sites with full hookups, a well-stocked store by the marina, and convenient access to fishing and airboating opportunities. Families can explore the pristine waters of Lake Kissimmee and Lake Hatchineha, both home to diverse wildlife, breathtaking sunsets, and unforgettable memories. The onsite airboat tour company, Alligator Cove Tours, is the top-rated tour company in the area, and customers rave about this nature trip.
Freshwater’s new interior, photo by Maria Iannucci
Camp Mack is also strategically located for those wishing to explore nearby attractions. Lake Kissimmee State Park offers excellent hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing, while the serene Bok Tower Gardens showcases lush landscapes and stunning water features. Both Lake Kissimmee State Park and Bok Tower Gardens are on the Great Florida Birding Trail.
Freshwater’s new interior, photo by Maria Iannucci
At Camp Mack, old Florida charm meets modern outdoor fun. Whether you’re seeking adventure on the water or a peaceful getaway in nature, there is something for everyone.
For more information: visit www.campmack.com or call (863) 696-1108.
Alice K. “Sister” Waters of Blowing Rock, North Carolina and Lake Wales, Florida, died at home in Blowing Rock on July 19, 2025. She was 91 years old.
A 4th generation Floridian, she was born in Jacksonville in 1934. As a little girl, she was known both for making mischief and for being an excellent student. Skipping two grades, she graduated from Robert E. Lee High School in 1951, her childhood love for the baton earning her the role of head majorette.
She attended University of Florida and afterwards worked for Motors Insurance Corp. in Jacksonville. There she met John Charles Waters of Alachua, who became the love of her life. The couple married in 1954 and moved to Orlando five years later. Alice volunteered as a teacher’s aide and substitute teacher at Lannis’ elementary school, and taught baton twirling to girls with the school’s marching band. She was active in PTA, becoming president of Pine Hills and Hiawassee elementary schools’ PTA – she started Hiawassee’s PTA.
Meanwhile, Alice developed what could only be called a passion for Robert’s Rules of Order. She was parliamentarian of Orange County Council PTA, corresponding secretary of the state PTA, and a member of the Parliamentary Law Unit of Winter Park. She even taught high school students parliamentary law. It all culminated in life memberships to the National Association of Parliamentarians and National PTA.
Alice helped establish Pine Castle Center for the Arts, and was president and organizer of the Art Center’s volunteer association. Then in 1976, the family moved to Babson Park. There, she was on the board of the Lake Wales Art Center and was active in the Lake Wales Women’s Club.
For a long time she helped organize the Pegasus Krewe for the annual Mardi Gras parade in Lake Wales; she was chosen as Queen of Pegasus, and Queen of Carnival.
Then, in 1985, her beloved John died. He was only 60; they were building a cabin in Blowing Rock. Alone, Alice moved to Blowing Rock. Until the end of her life, except for the snowiest months when she escaped to Lake Wales, she lived there on her own, building roaring fires herself when the temperature dipped. She enjoyed the mountains immensely, often picnicking with friends or family along the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Over time she became increasingly involved in politics. She was a member of Watauga County Republican Women’s Club, served many years on the party’s executive committee, and ran the county Republican headquarters during elections. She was honored by the Congressional District 5 Republican Party with the Above and Beyond award, the North Carolina Federation of Republican Women Tribute to Women and by the GOP Executive Committee as a district nominee to the Republican State Hall of Fame. She specifically requested that it be noted that “she jokingly gave pole dance lessons to her friends, mostly ladies from the Republican Women’s Club.”
Alice had a large group of close friends, whose love and support kept her life full, and enabled her to continue living independently on her own terms. A special group of women who gathered at her home each Wednesday for coffee were particularly dear to her, and brightened each week. She noted that she “loved traveling, good fun, and her family, especially granddaughters Martha and Alice.” She also loved to dance until a few years ago, and was a good dancer, including line dancing.
Alice Kirkland Waters was born January 6, 1934 in Jacksonville. She was predeceased by her beloved husband John C. Waters, her parents Ruby Messer and Van Buren Kirkland, and brother G. Van B. Kirkland, who died in Hurricane Katrina. She is survived by her son Lannis Waters (Michelle Genz) of Vero Beach, granddaughters Martha of London, England and Alice of Charlotte, NC, and their mother Liz Best of Carrboro, NC.
A funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, July 31 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales, followed by interment at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Orlando at 3pm. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Nashville, TN.
Lake Wales, Fla. (July 30, 2025) – Rashad Mullings, age 23 was arrested after discharging a firearm at the victim. The incident took place on Tuesday, July 29 at 11:30pm. Mullings was upset over an argument over online comments. After learning the victim’s whereabouts, Mullings proceeded to drive to the Lake Wales Gardens apartments to confront the victim. Upon arrival, Mullings exited the vehicle and opened the backdoor to retrieve a firearm. He fired three shots and fled the area.
No one was injured as a result of the shooting.
At approximately 10am this morning, Mullings’ vehicle was spotted traveling eastbound on Dr. J.A. Wiltshire Avenue. Officers conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and Rashad Mullins was taken into custody without incident. Mullings is currently on probation for Armed Burglary. He is being charged with Attempted First-Degree Murder, Discharge of a Firearm in a Residential Area, Unlawful Use of a Two-Way Communication Device and Violation of Probation.
Anna Frances Hackle of Lake Wales passed away Monday, July 21, 2025 at her residence.
She was born January 3, 1940 in Brooklyn, New York to the late William and Clotilde; she moved to Lake Wales from Boynton Beach 26 years ago. Anna was a retired bookkeeper. She enjoyed listening to music, going bowling, and dancing.
Anna was preceded in death by her husband, Roger Brian Hackle in 2009; and sister, Clotilde Knights. She is survived by her sons, Joseph Skaates of Boynton Beach and Roger John Hackle of Lake Wales; daughter, Debra Gorham of Key West; and granddaughter, Elizabeth Skaates of Colorado.
A visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Friday, August 1, 2025 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Saturday, August 2, 2025 at Marion Nelson Funeral Home in Lake Wales with Father Luis Osorio officiating. Interment will be in Lake Wales Cemetery. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.marionnelsonfuneralhome.com.
An opportunity to unleash your creativity will happen Saturday, August 2, 2025 at the Lake Wales Family Recreation Center as they host the Lake Wales Arts Council for a fun-filled Paint N’ Sip experience.
Photo courtesy of LWAC
An experienced instructor will guide you step-by-step instructions as you transform an ordinary wine glass into a one-of-a-kind work of art. Whether you’re a seasoned painter or picking up a brush for the first time, this event offers a relaxed, welcoming space to explore your artistic side.
The two-hour event will begin at from 2 p.m. at the Recreation Center located at 1001 Burns Avenue. A charge of $30 per person will be requested. Registration can be made at http://www.lakewalesartscouncil.org, or by phoning (863) 678-4192.
Solve The Murder at Moonstone Lake by Local Author Ellen Holder
by James Coulter
Life in a sleepy retirement village gets turned upside down when its manager is discovered lying dead in a pool of her own blood. Retired schoolteacher Celia Dawson is determined to find the killer, though she might as easily find romance either from the detective or her retired Marine neighbor.
Murder at Moonstone Lake is the debut mystery novel of local author Ellen Holder. She was inspired to write the story after one of her fellow writers in a local critique group pitched the idea of a murder mystery at a retirement village. It took her six years, but Ellen turned that story into her first published novel.
Ellen has been interested in storytelling ever since her father would tell her bedtimes stories as a child. Her favorite were the stories he would make up on the fly rather than the ones he told by memory. Those impromptu stories inspired her to create her own.
“I realized then, even at that early age, how much fun it would be to use that same imagination and make up stories,” she said.
Like many, Ellen learned how to read and write in elementary school. However, she hated reading the repetitious Dick and Jane books. In fact, she hated them so much that she was inspired to write her own. Many of the stories she wrote as a child she keeps in an old school notebook.
“I was bored by the Dick and Jane stories,” she said. “Right then, I wanted to be the writer more than I wanted to be the reader.”
Ellen has lived in Florida for the past 20 years. Following retirement, she would follow her passion of being a writer. She read books and magazines on writing and even attended several local writer’s groups, including one at the Winter Haven Public Library. It was there she was pitched the idea to write a murder mystery in a retirement village. What started as a joke from a fellow writer has now become her self-published novel, Murder at Moonstone Lake.
UPDATE 7/29/25 11:25am: Polk County Sheriff’s Office Public Information Officer Carrie Horstman offered an update to an early morning crash on the Hwy. 60 crash near Story Rd.:
“The crash occurred around 5:00 a.m. (Tues, July 29th) in the eastbound lanes of SR 60 E near Story Road. A 2011 black Ford Escape crossed over and was heading west in the eastbound lane when it struck a silver 2012 Jeep Wrangler that was heading east.
“The driver of the Jeep, a 25-year-old Haines City man, swerved to avoid a collision but was unable to avoid being hit by the Ford. Both vehicles sustained severe damage to the left front, and the driver of the Ford, a 58-year-old Lake Wales man, suffered significant injuries. He was not wearing a seat belt. He was airlifted to Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center in critical condition. The driver of the Jeep was not injured. SR 60 was closed for approximately four hours during the early part of the investigation, which is ongoing.”
Lake Wales, FL – A major traffic collision on Highway 60 East at Capps Rd. prompted a multi-agency emergency response early Monday morning. The call was received at approximately 5:01 a.m., and the scene was cleared around 6:29 a.m., according to Polk County Fire Rescue.
A medical helicopter was used to evacuate at least one patient from the scene, signaling the severity of the incident. Multiple fire and rescue units were dispatched, including BC005, BC007, EN014, EN026, MR014, MR026, and SQ021.
As of this report, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that the eastbound lanes of Highway 60 remain shut down. Westbound lanes had been closed since the incident was first reported but may now be reopening.
Motorists are advised to use caution in the area and seek alternate routes if possible. The cause of the crash and the extent of injuries remain under investigation.
Polk County, FL – A death investigation is underway along State Road 60 East near Kissimmee Shores Road following a 911 call that led deputies to a parked vehicle in the area.
According to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, their Emergency Communications Center received a call at 1:06 p.m. from a man who made alarming statements before hanging up. He did not provide his location and did not respond to repeated call-back attempts.
Deputies were able to identify the caller and determine the type of vehicle registered to him — a gray Chevrolet pickup truck. Using this information, they located the truck parked along SR 60 East and requested assistance from Polk County Fire Rescue.
At the scene, deputies began a death investigation. An autopsy is scheduled to determine the exact cause of death. Authorities have not released the individual’s identity, and the situation remains under investigation.
While the incident prompted a law enforcement response, traffic has remained passable in the area. As of this writing, one westbound lane of SR 60 remains closed.
Lake Wales, FL – A 33-year-old Winter Haven man was arrested Sunday evening after allegedly crashing his vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, according to the Polk County Sheriff’s Office arrest affidavit. The incident occurred near the intersection of Canal Road and Rocky Point Road in Lake Wales, shortly after a disturbance was reported at Cherry Pocket Restaurant.
Deputies were initially dispatched to the restaurant around 7:22 p.m. in response to reports of an allegedly intoxicated male causing a disturbance. Witnesses told law enforcement that the man, later identified as Michael Paul Levidiotis, had allegedly gotten into a white Ford Explorer and driven away heading east on Canal Road.
Minutes later, deputies were alerted to a single-vehicle crash just east of the restaurant. According to the PCSO arrest affidavit, the vehicle involved matched the description from the earlier disturbance call. When deputies arrived at the crash scene around 7:25 p.m., they observed a damaged fence, tire tracks into a wooded area, and a blaring car horn. Levidiotis was allegedly found seated in the driver’s seat with the door open.
Witnesses at the scene said the vehicle had veered off the road, nearly striking another car before crossing the roadway and crashing into the woods at a high rate of speed. Deputies reported that Levidiotis initially failed to comply with commands to exit the vehicle and had to be physically assisted out and detained.
Deputy Hinson conducted a DUI investigation at the scene. According to the arrest affidavit, Levidiotis allegedly showed multiple signs of impairment, including slurred speech, watery eyes, an unsteady stance, and a strong odor of alcohol on his breath. He allegedly stumbled while exiting the patrol car and had difficulty standing without support.
While some standardized field sobriety tests were not conducted for safety reasons, others were attempted. According to the affidavit, Levidiotis allegedly failed the finger-to-nose and Romberg balance tests, showing indicators consistent with impairment. Deputies stated he tilted his head back, kept his eyes open when instructed to close them, and repeatedly missed touching the tip of his nose.
Levidiotis was transported to the Sheriff’s Processing Center, where he allegedly refused to provide a breath sample despite being read the Implied Consent Warning. The affidavit notes that a strong odor of alcohol was detected in the backseat of the patrol vehicle after his transport.
He was charged with DUI (alcohol or drugs), DUI with property damage, and resisting an officer without violence.
