WESH 2

Televangelist Jim Bakker dead at 86

Jim Bakker, who, along with his then-wife Tammy Faye, built an evangelical empire around the hugely successful "The PTL Club" TV show, only to lose it all over a sex scandal and financial crimes, has died

'Live in the moment': College student recalls rare cancer diagnosis

What began as abdominal pain led to a rare cancer diagnosis for a college student. Abbie Whittemore says the experience changed how she sees life.

Deputies searching for missing juvenile last seen in Clermont

The Lake County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's help in locating a missing juvenile.

Deputies searching for missing juvenile last seen in Groveland

The Lake County Sheriff's Office is seeking the public's help in locating a missing juvenile.

Witness helps injured kids after Winter Haven bus crash

A witness rushed to help after a school bus crashed in Winter Haven, killing a high school student and another driver and injuring dozens of others.

AirPods, toys and a household essential sale highlight October Prime Day

Amazon's October Prime Day is live and there are thousands of deals available.

Steve Gleason reflects on 20 years since iconic punt block and life with ALS

Former New Orleans Saints player Steve Gleason reflects on the 20th anniversary of his legendary punt block, his battle with ALS, and the enduring connection between his life and the city of New Orleans.

New Smyrna Beach school employee arrested for trying to solicit sex with minor, police say

New Smyrna Beach police say a high school employee was arrested for inappropriate contact with someone posing as a minor online.

President Trump approves rare firing squad execution for Fort Hood shooter Nidal Hasan

President Donald Trump has approved the execution by firing squad of Army Maj. Nidal Hasan for the 2009 shooting rampage at Fort Hood, Texas

President Trump signs order extending tax-free use of red-dyed diesel during Nebraska midterm stop

At a campaign rally Monday night he signed an executive order to ease limits on the tax-free use of red-dye diesel.

Tennessee Republicans consider more execution options after Christa Pike lethal injection fails

Tennessee's top Republicans are exploring alternative execution methods after the failed execution of Christa Pike

Haridopolos, Jenkins outline priorities in 8th Congressional District race

We're less than a month away from Election Day, and the race for the 8th Congressional District is taking shape. The current congressman, Mike Haridopolos, R-Fla., is facing off against Democratic candidate Jennifer Jenkins on Nov. 3.

Convicted Massachusetts felon pleads guilty to selling imported plutonium from Russia to dozens

A Massachusetts man pleaded guilty to several charges after the U.S. Attorney's Office said he illegally sold and imported plutonium from Russia.

Trump says he will pay for campaign-style ads with his PAC money after backlash over taxpayer funds

President Trump said he will no longer use taxpayer funds for a series of promotional ads criticized across the aisle, instead using money from his super PAC.

Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin says his 22nd NHL season will be his last

Washington Capitals captain and career goal-scoring record holder Alex Ovechkin said this will be his final season in the NHL.

Flu cases are rising earlier this year — here's what that means

Doctors are already seeing flu cases, and say getting vaccinated sooner is better because the shot takes about two weeks to kick in.

FAA advances Starship, New Glenn and Terran R reviews for Cape Canaveral launches

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) advanced four commercial space environmental reviews for SpaceX's Starship super-heavy rocket, Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket, and Relativity Space's Terran R rocket.

Tampa Bay Rays host New York Yankees for ALDS Game 2 in Florida

The Tampa Bay Rays are looking to keep the momentum going after a Game 1 win against the New York Yankees.

How the Trump administration's revamped healthcare price transparency rules could impact patients

Consumer advocates say the rules are an important step, but stress there's more work today to ensure full transparency.

What parents should know about GLP-1s for kids

Some doctors are prescribing the medications known as GLP-1s to address childhood obesity. Here's what parents should know about GLP-1s and kids.

A wet work week while we watch a Gulf low take shape. 10.5.2026

DeLand approves water and sewer rate increases through 2031

DeLand residents are paying more for water and sewer service as the city plans more than $250 million in utility improvements through 2031.

Brothers rescue stranded drivers from flooded Sanford roads

Two brothers in Sanford helped rescue drivers from flooded roads after heavy rain caused localized flooding Sunday evening.

NBA is experimenting with smart basketballs and official wrist wearables in select preseason games

The NBA is experimenting with two pieces of technology in the leadup to the season

Pennsylvania measles cases reach more than 1,000. Track outbreaks in your state

Measles cases have surged in 2026, and Pennsylvania reported more than a thousand cases as of Monday.

A $30 painting, found in ‘dark corner’ of estate sale, has fetched $1.35M at auction. Here's why

A buyer took a chance on a $30 painting at an estate sale — and it turned out to be a long-lost Gertrude Abercrombie piece that set a record at auction.

Volusia County plans pump project to reduce flooding along Taylor Road

Flooding during hurricanes can shut down Taylor Road in Volusia County, leaving residents with few ways to get out.

Robert Kelker-Kelly, known for roles in major soap operas, has died at 62, reports say

Robert Kelker-Kelly, one of the actors who played Bo Brady on "Days of Our Lives" but was also well-known for roles on "General Hospital" and "Another World," has died at 62, according to reports.

Ex-pastor, 'American Idol' contestant Caleb Flynn sentenced for wife's murder

Caleb Flynn, the former pastor and "American Idol" contestant convicted of murdering his wife, was sentenced Monday.

East Altamonte’s historic Rosenwald School site one step closer to $4M transformation

The former Rosenwald School site in East Altamonte is one step closer to being revitalized with a park, fishing pier, walking paths, and a community center honoring its history, with completion expected by 2027.

Bodycam shows aftermath of shooting outside Ocoee High School where child was shot

Ocoee police released body camera footage showing the moments after a child was shot outside Ocoee High School following a football game against Jones High.

Volcano Bay to close for extended refurbishment, Universal Orlando says

Universal Orlando's Volcano Bay water park will close for scheduled maintenance on Oct. 26 and is set to reopen by April 1, 2027.

US monitoring suspected plague death in Russia. Here's what to know

Here's what you need to know about a recent Russian lab worker's death, the threat level to the U.S. and the pneumonic plague.

72-year-old man killed in Lady Lake crash, police say

A man was fatally struck by a car while crossing the street near U.S. Highway 27 in Lady Lake, police said.

Teens missing, believed to be in danger, Osceola deputies say

The Osceola County Sheriff's Office has asked for the public's help to locate two missing girls who are believed to be in danger.

No arrests announced in shootings that killed 2, left dozens injured at Georgia block party

Authorities in southern Georgia are still seeking suspects in weekend shootings that killed two people and left dozens injured when a sprawling block party turned violent.

Mother and son from Bermuda named as passengers on missing medical flight from Bermuda to Boston

A tragic air ambulance crash off Massachusetts has left two Bermudian nationals and four crew members presumed dead.

Friday Night Hits Week 8 | You Pick 2 Poll

A crowd of students protests Cornell's response to gang rape allegation

Cornell's main administration building was splashed with graffiti and a glass door was broken amid protests over the university's handling of an alleged 2024 fraternity-house gang rape.

Redistricting battles have reshaped the 2026 midterms. How do voters in redrawn districts feel?

A Dallas-area neighborhood has been carved up by redistricting, and neighbors on either side of the dividing line have very different feelings about the outcome — highlighting the impact of the nationwide battle ahead of the midterms.

White House blocks Politico from Air Force One amid press access lawsuit

The White House is refusing to allow Politico on Air Force One, which means the news organization cannot fulfill its press corps pool responsibilities.

Invest 92-L: Maps, spaghetti models

Tracking the Tropics 🌀 | See maps, spaghetti models for Invest 92-L in the Gulf.

National Hurricane Center tags Invest 92-L in Gulf

The National Hurricane Center designated a low-pressure area in the southwestern Gulf as Invest 92-L on Monday.

Obama to appear with El-Sayed in Detroit as the ex-president gets more involved in the midterms

Former President Barack Obama plans to appear with Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed in Detroit this month.

Sterility concerns lead FDA to recall thousands of eye drop products

More than 500,000 eye drop products have been recalled from store brands including Walgreens over sanitization concerns.

11-year-old celebrates life-saving bone marrow transplant with help from older brother

Peyton Stewart, 11, received a life-saving bone marrow transplant from his older brother after being diagnosed with a rare genetic mutation.

Supreme Court rejects appeal over Michigan school's ban on ‘Let’s Go Brandon’ sweatshirts

The Supreme Court is rejecting an appeal from a Michigan woman challenging a school district’s ban on shirts with the phrase "Let’s Go Brandon."

Crash involving Lynx bus sends 15 to hospital, Orlando Fire Department says

15 people were transported to hospitals after a Lynx bus and an SUV crashed in Orlando.

Gatorade issues major recall across more than 30 states

Gatorade is recalling thousands of cases of its sports drink over food dye that wasn't declared on the packaging.

Florida Senate District 8 General Debate

The Commitment 2026 general debate series continues with Florida Senate district 8.

Former press secretary Karoline Leavitt lands her next gig: Fox News contributor

Former White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt is joining Fox News as an on-air contributor.

Nobel medicine prize goes to 3 scientists for research into brain activity

The Nobel Prize in medicine was awarded Monday to three scientists whose work led to a tool that uses light to help unravel how the brain works.

Mom Monday: Helping families navigate fall festivities in and around Central Florida

With October in full swing, Orlando Mom Collective owner Eryn Vargo shares tips for parents to enjoy fall activities, including pumpkin patches, Halloween events, and budget-friendly costume ideas.

Yes, it's almost Prime Day again. Here's everything to know about October's deals

Mark your calendars, Big Deal Days is just a few days away.

Dennis Hastert, longtime Republican House speaker who went to prison, dies at 84

Dennis Hastert, who served as House speaker longer than any other Republican but later was sent to prison in a hush-money case, has died.

NAMI Central Florida highlights mental health resources during Mental Illness Awareness Week

Freddy Morello Jr., CEO of NAMI Central Florida, discusses free resources, new programs, and an upcoming gala during Mental Illness Awareness Week.

St. Cloud pre-K teacher arrested for allegedly grabbing student by neck

Police say a St. Cloud Elementary teacher dragged a child, pushed his face into a fence and hit him after he refused to leave recess.

'Def Comedy Jam' and 'In Living Color' actor-comedian dies at 57

Actor and stand-up comedian Reggie McFadden, who got his start on HBO's Def Comedy Jam and worked on Fox sketch series In Living Color, has died.

Brisbane 2032 launches a cockatoo emblem for Olympics and Paralympics

The cockatoo has won out over the kangaroo, the koala and the bin chicken to become the emblem of the 2032 Olympics and Paralympics.

2 dead, including 10th-grade student, in Central Florida school bus crash, sheriff says

2 people were killed, including a 10th-grade student, when a school bus crashed in Winter Haven Monday morning, authorities said.

Sass Jordan, 'Canadian Idol' judge and rock singer who toured with Aerosmith, Van Halen, has died

Sass Jordan, Canadian Idol judge and rock star who had toured alongside Aerosmith and other artists like Van Halen at the start of her career, has died.

3 people killed in crash on SR-60 in Osceola County, troopers say

Three people were killed in a crash on SR-60 in Osceola County on Monday morning, FHP says

Supreme Court begins new term with cases addressing climate change, immigration, and gun laws

The Supreme Court's new term opens with cases addressing climate change lawsuits, immigration policies, and voting rights laws.

System in Gulf could develop into tropical depression this week, NHC says

A broad area of low pressure could form in a few days over the southwestern Gulf, according to the NHC.

Tampa man, 64, killed after crashing into cable box in Marion County, FHP says

Troopers say a man was killed in a Marion County crash after crashing into a cable box on NW 100th Street.

US military says latest strike on alleged drug-smuggling boat in the Caribbean kills 4

The U.S. military said it attacked a boat suspected of being used to smuggle drugs in the Caribbean Sea on Sunday, killing four people, as the Trump administration continues its yearlong campaign against alleged traffickers in Latin America.

Home affordability gap for first-time buyers widens as costs rise

Most young buyers can't afford a typical starter home, and about 80% of metro areas fall below affordability for first-time buyers.

Woman dies after shooting at Maitland apartment complex

Police are investigating after a person was shot at a Maitland apartment complex on Monday.

Wet weather pattern across Central Florida this week

Wet weather is settling over Central Florida this week as a low-pressure system brings more rain and cloudy skies.

Ukraine claims its attacks have taken out more than half of Russia's oil refining capacity

Ukraine said that its long-range strikes have neutralized more than half of Russia's oil refining capacity, hampering Moscow's ability to supply its forces during its 4 1/2-year-old invasion.

Former Prince Andrew takes legal action against UK police over Epstein arrest

King Charles' younger brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has launched legal action against police in England over his arrest earlier this year on suspicion of misconduct in public office following revelations from the Epstein files in the United States.

FBI arrests woman accused of spying on Taiwan leader's family for China

The FBI arrested a woman at Los Angeles International Airport as she was leaving the country, and accused her of spying on the Taiwan president's family for China.

Jeffries says House Democrats reaching to flip Trump districts in attempt to repeat their 2018 sweep

House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries says his party is on track to win back control of the House

Sanford shooting survivor returns home after nearly 2 weeks in hospital

Shakira Brundidge said she remembers going to a celebration of life on Sept. 19 but recalls little about the shooting or how she was injured.

FBI Director Kash Patel gets engaged to longtime girlfriend, country singer Alexis Wilkins

FBI Director Kash Patel is engaged to country singer Alexis Wilkins, who announced the news with a photo of her ring and the caption, "Went and got the law involved."

VIDEO: Take a flight with Jake, the air traffic controller who flies himself to work

Take a video flyalong with Jake, a Colorado air traffic controller who skips the car and flies a paramotor to work, soaring over Pueblo before starting his shift, and then spends his workdays directing planes from an airport tower

Dozens quarantined after researcher at Russian plague laboratory dies of ‘unknown’ infection

Reports say U.S. health officials are monitoring after a Russian lab worker died of an unknown infection | What we know so far

Think your milk belongs in the fridge door? Experts say think again. Here's why

If your milk lives in the fridge door, experts have some advice for you.

Why even resilient forests are struggling to regrow after wildfires

Forests that are historically adapted to fire are now often being obliterated by the fast-moving, high-temperature wildfires that are becoming increasingly common.

New disturbance being monitored in Gulf, NHC says

A broad area of low pressure could form in a few days over the southwestern Gulf, according to the NHC.

Groveland considers pausing utility rate increase after water advisories

Groveland city leaders will vote on halting a planned utility rate increase following three recent water advisories caused by aging infrastructure and system failures.

St. Cloud to begin repairs on Cypress Tree Trail after road washout

About two months after a St. Cloud road collapsed because of a washout, crews will begin permanent repairs to fix the infrastructure on Monday.

Development possible in the Gulf this week + a rainy 7-day forecast

Tropical development possible in the Gulf

A hungry chambermaid bit into an apple a century ago and helped solve a high-wire diamond heist

A hungry chambermaid bit into an apple in the room she was cleaning a century ago and helped solve a high-wire diamond heist.

Man dies after drowning in Lake Weir, deputies say

A 22-year-old man has died after being pulled from Lake Weir, according to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.

Why stink bugs invade your home in fall—and how to stop them

Fall is stink bug season. Here’s how to get rid of them and keep them from coming back.

US Air Force pulls all bombers from key British air base targeted by a suspected terror attack

The U.S. Air Force has brought home its bombers stationed at a U.S.-run military air base in England, used to strike Iran following an investigation into a planned terror attack at the RAF Fairford base

UAE had shared details about FlyDubai flight with Israel, including pilots' names and nationalities

Authorities in the UAE shared with Israel a list of crew ahead of the FlyDubai flight on which a pilot attempted to seize control, officials said, raising new questions about why he evaded detection.

Bucs go 0-4 after Jalon Daniels' first start ends in Packers' 17-14 win in Tampa

Jordan Love threw two touchdown passes and the Green Bay Packers overcame two fourth-quarter turnovers to beat the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 17-14.

New York Yankees relying on Cam Schlittler to even series against the Tampa Bay Rays

The Yankees face pressure to beat the Tampa Bay Rays on Monday night. They are down 1-0 in the AL Division Series after losing 1-0 on Saturday.

School custodian honored for kidney donation that helped save teacher’s brother

"Just trying to love my neighbor" | A custodian received special recognition from his school on National Custodian Day for donating his kidney to help a teacher’s brother.

Why are more young adults having strokes now than 30 years ago?

A medical expert explains why more young adults are having strokes today than three decades ago.

2 killed and dozens injured at large neighborhood block party shooting in south Georgia

Law enforcement officials say two people have been shot dead and nearly three dozen were injured at a neighborhood block party early Sunday morning in southern Georgia.

What's the MLB rule when the ball hits the roof?

One of the wildest moments the Brewers have ever seen raises a question: What's the MLB rule when the ball hits the roof?

Archaeologists found 11 silver coins buried 2,000 years ago

Archaeologists in Germany found 11 rare silver coins known as quinarii that were made by an ancient Celtic culture. But a mystery around them remains unanswered.

Search suspended for missing passengers on board Boston-bound medical plane, US Coast Guard says

The U.S. Coast Guard has suspended a search for the six missing passengers who were on board a medical aircraft that went missing off the Massachusetts coast, as of Sunday evening.

Christa Pike has not regained consciousness since failed execution, lawyer says

Christa Pike remains unconscious and on a ventilator in a Tennessee hospital after a failed execution attempt.

Pedestrian fatally struck by Amtrak train in Osceola County, FHP says

The train’s conductor applied the emergency brake but was unable to stop before hitting the man near Michigan Avenue and Garden Street, authorities said.

US Marine arrested for alleged murder of a woman on Okinawa, sparks outrage from Japan

Japanese police arrested a U.S. Marine in the alleged robbery and murder of a woman on Okinawa, officials said Sunday, the latest criminal case on the southern island where the heavy American troop presence has remained a sensitive issue.

Trump announces leadership of new federal AI task force

President Donald Trump has tapped his director of national intelligence, Jay Clayton, to lead a new government task force on artificial intelligence