According to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded at approximately 12:06 p.m. to the 5300 block of 16th Street West following reports of a shooting with injuries.

Investigators said a 37-year-old man was shot multiple times by his stepfather, identified as Mikey McGuire, following an argument.

As deputies arrived at the scene, McGuire was reportedly leaving in a vehicle. Authorities said he struck a deputy’s patrol vehicle while fleeing, prompting a short pursuit.

The chase ended near the Steak ’n Shake on 53rd Avenue West when McGuire crashed his vehicle. Deputies said he then attempted to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended and taken into custody.

The victim was transported to HCA Florida Blake Hospital, where he remained in critical condition on Friday afternoon.

McGuire faces multiple charges, including attempted murder, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer and fleeing to elude law enforcement.

The sheriff’s office said the shooting stemmed from a family dispute and described the incident as isolated. Authorities confirmed all involved parties have been accounted for.

The investigation remains active.

The event will take place at 5 p.m. at the Manatee Performing Arts Center and is presented by the cities of Bradenton and Palmetto, Spectrum, and HISTORY® as part of the America250 commemoration. Organizers say the evening is designed to honor the courage, sacrifice, and lasting legacy of the men and women who served during World War II.

Before the screening, attendees will be invited to a community reception featuring light refreshments, beverages, and a patriotic musical performance by an ensemble from The Pops Orchestra of Bradenton and Sarasota.

Following the documentary presentation, a panel discussion will give audience members an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the historical significance of World War II and its impact on local veterans and families. Manatee County Veteran Services Division Manager Renee Medina will participate in the post-screening panel.

Admission to the event is free, but tickets are required. Organizers have limited reservations to four tickets per household due to expected demand.

Residents interested in attending can reserve seats by contacting the Manatee Performing Arts Center Box Office at 941-748-5875.

The event serves as an early kickoff to America250 celebrations, which will mark the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States in 2026, while recognizing the contributions and sacrifices of the Greatest Generation.

The drive-thru event will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Manatee County Public Safety Center, located at 2101 47th Terrace E. in Bradenton.

During the event, each household will be eligible to receive up to 10 free pre-filled sandbags. The distribution is designed to help residents protect their homes and property from flooding associated with heavy rain and tropical weather.

County officials are also offering a home delivery option for eligible residents who are transportation dependent, age 60 or older, and live in Flood Zones A or B. Residents can check their eligibility for home delivery through the county’s online application process.

Residents are encouraged to determine their flood zone status and take advantage of the free sandbag distribution as part of their hurricane preparedness plans. Supplies will be available while they last during the scheduled event hours.

Operation: Sandbag Support is part of Manatee County’s ongoing efforts to help residents prepare for storm season and reduce the impacts of flooding throughout the community.

After Clearwater put up two runs in the top of the first, Bradenton responded with a run in the bottom of the second. Rynders singled, stole second, and scored on a base hit by Cristian Jauregui to make it 2-1.

In the bottom of the third, Perez singled and plated on a double by Richard Ramirez. After Ramirez moved to third on a fielding error, he scored on a throwing error by Threshers catcher Angel Mata. Rynders walked and Iredale homered to make it a 5-2 ballgame.

Perez walked to lead off the bottom of the fifth and came around to score on a two-run homer by Rynders, putting the Marauders up 7-2.

The Threshers scored three runs in the sixth, four in the seventh, one in the eighth, and one in the night to cap off an 11-7 win over the Marauders.

Cole Gilley (4-0) notched the win, letting up two runs on two hits, a walk, and four strikeouts over 3.0 frames. Noah Takacs (1-6) took the loss, allowing four runs on four hits and a walk over 1.1 innings.

The Marauders and Threshers play game four of a six-game series on Friday from LECOM Park. First pitch is set for 6:30 p.m.

For more information about the Bradenton Marauders, please call 941-747-3031, visit www.BradentonMarauders.com, or email MaraudersInfo@pirates.com.

The agreement transfers all USF Sarasota-Manatee real property interests, academic and administrative buildings, residential facilities, classroom furnishings, permanent fixtures, and related contracts, leases, obligations, and liabilities associated with the 32-acre campus. New College will also assume responsibility for operating, maintenance, repair, and renovation costs.

Several items are specifically excluded from the transfer, including USF students, employees, academic programs, institutional records, intellectual property, funds, computers assigned to USF personnel, and the Florida Center for Partnership in the Arts. Existing USF Sarasota-Manatee students who have already enrolled will be allowed to complete their degrees on campus under a teach-out arrangement, meaning some classrooms and faculty will remain on site during the transition period.

The transfer stems from decisions made during a recent legislative special session and was supported by Gov. Ron DeSantis and New College leadership. The move has generated opposition from some local business leaders, alumni, donors, students, and members of the USF Faculty Senate, who expressed concerns about the loss of the Sarasota-Manatee campus identity and its role in serving regional workforce needs.

USFSM Campus Board Chair Rick Piccolo acknowledged community concerns while supporting the agreement, noting that many residents believe both institutions play important roles in the region and that alternative collaborative approaches could have been explored. He also expressed appreciation that current students will be able to complete their education through USF.

Under the agreement, New College faculty and staff will move into available campus space after July 1, while USF continues to use areas necessary for students completing their degrees. Any campus rebranding by New College must avoid creating confusion for current USF students and employees and cannot permanently alter facilities being used during the teach-out process.

The agreement also includes financial safeguards. New College must begin making monthly payments of approximately $166,617 to USF on July 1 and assume responsibility for roughly $53 million in residence hall debt by Dec. 31, 2026. Failure to meet those obligations would nullify the transfer agreement.

The transition comes as New College faces financial challenges, including existing debt obligations and a significant reduction in state funding under the proposed state budget. Meanwhile, organizations operating on the campus, including WUSF, are preparing relocation plans as the ownership transition moves forward.

Source

The rescues highlighted the critical role lifeguards play in protecting swimmers and visitors, with beach officials crediting the quick response and dedication of patrol personnel for safely assisting those in distress throughout the day.

Several of the incidents were linked to rip currents, powerful channels of water that flow away from shore and can rapidly pull swimmers into deeper water. Rip currents are among the most common beach hazards and can occur even when weather conditions appear calm and inviting.

Beach safety officials are reminding residents and visitors that if they become caught in a rip current, they should remain calm and avoid trying to swim directly against the flow. Instead, swimmers should float, conserve energy, and swim parallel to the shoreline until they are out of the current before returning to shore.

Officials also encourage beachgoers to swim near staffed lifeguard towers whenever possible and to check current beach and surf conditions before entering the water.

Rip currents can develop at any time and may not always be visible from shore. Beach Patrol officials say awareness, preparation, and swimming in protected areas remain the best defenses against potentially life-threatening situations in the Gulf waters.

Beach conditions and safety updates are available through local beach monitoring resources before heading to the shore.

According to the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to a call Thursday morning and determined there was probable cause to arrest Barrett. He was booked into the Manatee County Jail, where records showed his bond was set at $750. As of Thursday evening, online jail records listed him as being in custody.

No additional details about the incident that led to the arrest were immediately released by authorities.

Barrett, whose legal name is Phillip Anthony Barrett, is one of five candidates seeking the District 6 at-large seat on the Manatee County Commission. The race includes Republican candidates John Calovich, Edward Ference and Tara Poulton, along with Democratic candidate Reggie Bellamy.

A longtime East County resident, Barrett is a U.S. Army veteran and former emergency services professional who previously worked with Manatee County EMS and the Sarasota County Fire Department. He also served as a tactical medic with the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office SWAT team and has spent more than two decades working as a real estate broker. Barrett served as the 2024 president of the REALTOR® Association of Sarasota and Manatee and founded Heroes Welcome Home, a nonprofit organization that assists veterans with housing and support services.

In addition to his commission campaign, Barrett currently serves as an elected commissioner for East Manatee Fire Rescue. A spokesperson for the fire district said officials were aware of the arrest but had no additional information regarding the incident. The district noted that elected fire commissioners are not subject to the authority of district administrators and that oversight of an elected commissioner rests with the governor’s office.

Barrett’s current term as an East Manatee Fire Rescue commissioner is scheduled to expire in November 2026.

The charge remains an allegation, and Barrett is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Kim’s Krew, a Manatee County-based charitable organization, delivers food and essential household items to individuals and families experiencing health-related crises who have limited access to other food sources. The nonprofit provides up to 30 days of assistance, helping residents focus on recovery without the added burden of food insecurity.

The organization was established in memory of Kim Sellitto, who lost her life to domestic violence in 2013. Following her death, family members and friends came together with a shared commitment to helping others through acts of kindness, service, and community support. Kim’s parents, Cindy and Joe, also created a support group for grieving parents, which later became the foundation for Kim’s Krew’s original board of directors. The organization is now a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

Operating as a referral-only agency, Kim’s Krew fills a unique and vital role in Manatee County. The organization serves residents whose medical conditions or health crises prevent them from accessing traditional food assistance programs. In urgent situations, volunteers can arrange deliveries within 24 hours.

As one of the few delivery-model food pantries in the county, Kim’s Krew provides more than food. Clients receive hygiene products, household necessities, and nutrition options tailored to their individual health needs. The pantry offers specialized items for those requiring low-sugar, low-sodium, or liquid nutritional supplements, ensuring support aligns with medical recommendations.

Beyond immediate assistance, volunteers help connect clients with long-term community resources that can provide continued stability and support. This personalized approach allows families to receive not only emergency relief but also guidance toward self-sufficiency.

Kim’s Krew continues to serve as a lifeline for Manatee County residents during times of illness and hardship, providing compassionate assistance while honoring the legacy of kindness that inspired its creation.

Community members interested in supporting the organization can make donations or learn more by visiting Kim’s Krew’s website. Additional information is available by calling 941-792-0993 or emailing Manatee@KimsKrew.org.

As part of its weekly “Scam of the Week” alert, the department highlighted an email scam that falsely claims a recently purchased Amazon item has a dangerous design defect and is eligible for a refund. The email urges recipients to click a link to begin the refund process but provides little or no information about the product involved or the alleged safety concern.

According to the alert, scammers distribute these messages to large numbers of people in hopes that recipients have recently made purchases through Amazon. The vague nature of the email is intended to create uncertainty and encourage users to click the link without verifying the information.

Those who follow the link are directed to a fraudulent website designed to look like Amazon’s login page. Entering account credentials on the fake site can allow cybercriminals to gain access to Amazon accounts and potentially obtain personal information.

Police advise residents not to click links contained in unsolicited recall emails. Instead, consumers should verify any recall notices by opening the Amazon app or visiting Amazon’s official website directly.

The department also encourages people to be skeptical of urgent emails that fail to identify the product involved or explain the specific safety issue. Scammers frequently use pressure and urgency to convince victims to act quickly before taking time to verify the message.

Residents are reminded to pause and think before responding to unexpected emails involving refunds, account information, or product safety concerns, as taking a few moments to verify the source can help prevent becoming the victim of a phishing attack.

The proposal, discussed during Tuesday’s commission meeting, seeks to establish standards for occupancy, parking, noise complaints and property management responsibilities. County Commission Chair Tal Siddique said the ordinance appears feasible and has been sent back to staff for further review before returning to the board for consideration.

Under the proposed regulations, occupancy would be limited to two people per bedroom, with a maximum of 12 occupants per home. Guests would be required to park in driveways, and property owners or managers would need to be available around the clock and respond to complaints within one hour. Violations involving occupancy limits, noise or parking could result in fines ranging from $250 to $5,000.

Supporters of the ordinance told commissioners that short-term rentals have created ongoing quality-of-life issues in some neighborhoods, citing loud parties, excessive traffic and disturbances that they say have disrupted previously quiet communities. Some residents argued that stronger enforcement measures are needed to protect neighborhoods from repeated violations.

Opponents, including some short-term rental owners, urged commissioners to focus on addressing problematic behavior rather than imposing additional regulations on all rental operators. They argued that existing laws already provide tools to address noise, parking and nuisance complaints and warned that new restrictions could negatively impact property rights and small business owners.

Siddique noted that state law limits the ability of local governments to regulate rental durations or cap the number of short-term rental properties. However, he said local officials can pursue regulations related to health, safety and operational standards. He added that the success of any ordinance would depend on enforcement costs and the availability of county resources.

The proposal will return to the Manatee County Commission after staff completes its review and provides recommendations on implementation and enforcement.

The Marauders began the scoring in the bottom of the first off Threshers starter Cade Obermueller. Antonio Pimentel singled and Eddie King Jr. walked to put runners on second and first. Perez doubled, scoring Pimentel and King Jr. to make it a 2-0 ballgame. A single by Scherrer plated Perez and increased the lead, 3-0.

In the bottom of the eighth, the Marauders added to the lead. Cristian Jauregui doubled, Canon Reeder singled, and Pimentel walked to load the bases. A sacrifice fly by King Jr. scored Jauregui and made it 4-1.

Bradenton reliever Brandon Cain allowed a run in the ninth but was still able to close it down to finalize a 4-1 win for the Marauders.

Sterling (4-3) notched the win, letting up two hits with four strikeouts over 6.0 innings. Obermueller (0-1) took the loss, allowing three runs on five hits, three walks, and three strikeouts over 3.0 innings.

The Marauders and Threshers play game three of a six-game set on Thursday from LECOM Park. First pitch is set for 6:30 p.m. EST.

For more information about the Bradenton Marauders, please call 941-747-3031, visit www.BradentonMarauders.com, or email MaraudersInfo@pirates.com.

The Manatee County Task Force formalizes an existing network of highly trained personnel, equipment, and resources already available throughout Manatee County under a state-recognized structure. Participating agencies will continue working together while receiving additional training to further strengthen response efforts during complex emergencies.
“This approval reflects our commitment to building upon the strong public safety partnerships that already exist throughout Manatee County,” said Commissioner Mike Rahn, “By bringing these agencies together under one coordinated structure, we are strengthening our ability to respond to complex emergencies and creating a more unified response capability for our community.”

Participating agencies include Manatee County Public Safety, North River Fire District, West Manatee Fire Rescue, Bradenton Fire Department, Cedar Hammock Fire Rescue, South Manatee Fire Rescue, and South Manatee Fire Rescue HazMat Team.

Unlike day-to-day emergency response operations, the task force will bring together multiple specialized disciplines under one coordinated response team designed to handle large-scale, complex, and prolonged incidents.

The team will be capable of responding to incidents such as hurricanes, building collapses, marine and swift water rescues, and no-notice events, whether natural or man-made. Specialized disciplines within the task force will include building collapse rescue, trench rescue, tower rescue, high- and low-angle rope rescue, advanced vehicle and machinery rescue, and hazardous materials response.

“We already have the people, the equipment and the expertise,” said Manatee County Public Safety Director Jodie Fiske. “By bringing these resources together, we are creating a stronger, more unified response capability for Manatee County.”

The next step for the Manatee County Task Force is to undergo an official assessment and receive designation as Task Force 11 through the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM).

This year, Manatee Memorial is honored to have winners in two key categories:

Vernon DeSear, Chief Executive Officer of Manatee Memorial Foundation, was named the Lifetime Achievement Award winner. Over more than twenty-five years at Manatee Memorial Hospital, he served in senior leadership roles where he strengthened community awareness, expanded access to essential medical services, and built meaningful connections among physicians, patients, and civic partners. Today, Vernon serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Manatee Memorial Foundation, where he continues his legacy of service through philanthropy and community investment. Under his guidance, the Foundation has provided more than $1 million in scholarships to aspiring healthcare professionals and has contributed substantial funding to nonprofits supporting patients and families. Vernon DeSear’s leadership has strengthened healthcare, elevated education, preserved cultural heritage, and enriched community life across Manatee County.

In the Individual of Merit category, Mark Goodson, Vice Chairman of the Board of Governors for Manatee Memorial, was recognized for his more than 25 years of service on the Board. Mark is helping guide the hospital’s strategic direction, growth, and continued investment in advanced, patient-centered care. In addition, Mark dedicated 16 years to the Manatee Memorial Hospital Foundation Board, including five years as Chairman. In this role, he played a critical part in advancing philanthropic initiatives that directly support patient care, clinical innovation, and community health programs. Mark’s legacy is defined by consistency, longevity, and impact of his service. He exemplifies servant leadership and a steadfast commitment to his community.

“We are so proud to honor Vernon and Mark,” said Colin Weaver, Interim Chief Executive Officer of Manatee Memorial Hospital. “They both exemplify the highest level of excellence in healthcare. Their work not only transforms lives but also strengthens the fabric of our community.”

Manatee Memorial Hospital extends its congratulations to all the 2026 Champions of Healthcare honorees and expresses gratitude to the Manatee Chamber of Commerce for recognizing those who go above and beyond in healthcare every day.

Pictures attached: Vernon DeSear – 2026 Champions of Healthcare Lifetime Achievement Winner, Mark Goodson –2026 Champions of Healthcare Individual of Merit Award Winner

About Manatee Memorial Hospital

Since 1953, Manatee Memorial Hospital (MMH) has been serving the residents of Manatee, Hillsborough, and surrounding counties. The hospital opened the first Interventional Radiology Suite with a biplane in Manatee County in January 2019 to support advanced stroke care and vascular disease. The range of medical services includes emergency medicine for all ages; cardiac; cardiovascular; stroke; surgical; orthopedics; outpatient and inpatient radiology services; rehabilitation; respiratory care; sleep services; oncology; wound care and women’s and children’s services, including Manatee County’s only Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. MMH is the county’s oldest teaching hospital, educating today’s physicians for tomorrow through its Graduate Medical Education program. For information on hospital services, visit manateememorial.com.

According to court records, Mauricio Moises Guel was arrested on Wednesday on a first-degree felony arson charge stemming from a July 4, 2023, fire at a rented workshop in the 5900 block of 15th Street East in Bradenton. The charge carries a maximum penalty of up to 30 years in prison.

Investigators allege Guel intentionally set the fire at a 2,400-square-foot workshop that occupied part of a larger commercial building. The workshop was rented by one of Guel’s family members at the time of the incident.

Firefighters with the Southern Manatee Fire District responded to the blaze and initially considered the possibility that an air-conditioning unit had caused the fire. However, investigators later determined the fire originated outside the structure near the building’s southeast wall.

According to an arrest report, surveillance footage captured two men walking toward the area where the fire began shortly before the blaze was reported. Investigators said the men appeared to be carrying items and repeatedly looking around before leaving in a silver sedan.

Authorities said the two men later returned to the scene in the same vehicle and attempted to extinguish the fire using buckets of water.

Witnesses identified one of the individuals in the video as Guel, who was 16 years old at the time of the fire, investigators reported.

The property owner told investigators she had recently begun eviction proceedings against one of Guel’s family members before the fire occurred.

Guel has pleaded not guilty to the charge. Court records show he was released on bond two days after his arrest and is scheduled to be arraigned on July 24.

The investigation was conducted by the Florida Department of Financial Services Bureau of Fire, Arson, and Explosives Investigations, with assistance from the Southern Manatee Fire District, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.

The funding, approved through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, will support the placement of beach-compatible sand to replace shoreline losses caused by erosion and recent storm impacts. The project is 100 percent federally funded and requires no local financial match.

“These beaches serve as both a recreational asset and a critical first line of defense during coastal storms,” said Commission Chair Tal Siddique. “This federal investment helps restore storm protection, preserve habitat and maintain one of Manatee County’s most important natural resources without placing additional costs on local taxpayers.”

The project area is part of the federally authorized Central Anna Maria Island Shore Protection Project, a long-standing partnership between Manatee County and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The renourishment effort will replace sand lost during recent hurricanes and severe coastal storms and restore the federally authorized beach profile designed to reduce erosion and provide storm protection for the island.

Beach renourishment is a critical component of coastal resilience, helping protect shorelines, public infrastructure, businesses, homes and natural resources while maintaining the health and functionality of the beach system. By restoring storm-related losses, the project will help preserve the protective benefits of the beach for residents and visitors alike.

Construction schedules and project details will be coordinated through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Manatee County Natural Resources Department as planning and permitting activities move forward.

For more information on Manatee County Government, visit mymanatee.org or contact Manatee County Government Communications at news@mymanatee.org or call (941) 745-6397 (NEWS). Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @ManateeGov.

The discussion explored the influence of the Black community across education, sports, history and business. Panelists also emphasized the importance of civic engagement, land ownership and economic empowerment as pathways to creating generational stability and opportunity for families.

The event featured a panel of local leaders and community voices, including Xavier Omar Edwards, Ray Bellamy, Reggie Bellamy, Susie Copeland and Carla Washington Range. The discussion was moderated by Michelle Grimsley Shindano, who guided conversations on community impact, history and future opportunities for growth.

Organizers said the gathering served as both a celebration of Black excellence and a call to action, encouraging residents to remain engaged in efforts that increase access to affordable housing and homeownership.

Support from attendees contributes to Habitat for Humanity’s Advancing Black Homeownership Initiative, which works to expand pathways to homeownership for local families. The organization is currently focused on completing a home for Jasmine, a future homeowner participating in the program.

As part of those efforts, Habitat for Humanity of Manatee County will participate in Give 8/28 on Aug. 28, a national day of giving dedicated to supporting Black-led and Black-benefiting nonprofits and initiatives. Donations raised during the campaign will help move Jasmine’s future home from foundation to completion.

The organization is also planning a Wall Raising Day event in September, marking a significant milestone in the homebuilding process. Volunteers will have the opportunity to help raise the walls of Jasmine’s future home, symbolizing the beginning of a family’s journey toward homeownership.

In addition to homebuilding efforts, Habitat continues to offer free one-on-one financial coaching for community members seeking to improve their financial stability and prepare for future homeownership opportunities. The program is available to anyone interested in receiving guidance on budgeting, credit and long-term financial planning.

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According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the pursuit started when troopers observed a black SUV traveling at 112 mph on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. The driver failed to stop, leading authorities on a chase southbound on Interstate 275 into Manatee County.

The pursuit continued until approximately 9 a.m., when the driver exited the interstate at Exit 19 and entered Palmetto. Troopers performed a Precision Immobilization Technique, commonly known as a PIT maneuver, causing the SUV to spin out and come to a stop.

After the vehicle was disabled, the driver exited the SUV and ran into nearby woods near U.S. Highway 41 and 21st Street East. Authorities described the suspect as a Black male wearing a hoodie and sweatpants.

The Florida Highway Patrol, assisted by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and the Palmetto Police Department, launched an extensive search of the area using officers and drones.

Investigators said the SUV was rented by a woman in Sarasota County, although authorities believe the suspect was the person driving during the pursuit.

Law enforcement officials indicated they are confident they will be able to identify the driver involved in the chase. Authorities also emphasized that the incident was related to the suspect attempting to evade law enforcement and that there was no indication the individual had threatened officers or the public with violence.

The search remained active Tuesday as investigators worked to locate the suspect and determine additional details surrounding the pursuit.