Daily News Roundup: July 25, 2026
Sarasota Man Arrested After Allegedly Starting Fire Inside Abandoned DeSoto Square Mall
A 22-year-old Sarasota man is facing multiple felony charges after authorities say he broke into the abandoned DeSoto Square Mall and started a fire by placing a stolen electronic device inside a microwave.
Manatee County Beach Patrol to Launch Rescue Drone for Faster Emergency Response
Manatee County Beach Patrol is preparing to add a rescue drone to its emergency response arsenal, a move officials say will significantly improve response times for swimmers in distress, particularly along sections of coastline without lifeguards.
Marine Deputies Remove Hazardous Debris from Manatee River Near DeSoto Bridge
Marine deputies responded Friday morning to reports of a large debris field in the Manatee River near the DeSoto Bridge, removing a significant amount of floating material that posed a serious hazard to boaters.
Bradenton Beach Appoints Lt. Lenard Diaz as Next Police Chief
Bradenton Beach has selected its next police chief, promoting longtime Lieutenant Lenard Diaz to lead the department beginning Oct. 1.
Teaching Kids to Fish Program Seeks Sponsors and Volunteers for Youth Fishing Event in Palmetto
T3F Inc.’s Teaching Kids to Fish program is looking for sponsors, mentors and volunteers to help introduce local children to the sport of fishing during a community event scheduled for Saturday, Aug. 15.