Miami Beach Incidents: Accidental Drowning and Sunbather Struck by City Vehicle
A 19-year-old swimmer, Victor Castaneda Jr., drowned accidentally in Miami Beach after being caught in a rip current. His severed head washed ashore later, identified through dental records. A city worker driving on the beach struck and seriously injured a 59-year-old sunbather. The worker received a citation for careless driving causing injury.
Post Malone and J Balvin Announce 2025 Miami Concert Dates
J Balvin and Post Malone announced stadium tours for 2025, with stops in Miami. Post Malone will perform at Hard Rock Stadium on June 8, 2025, as part of his Big Ass Stadium Tour. J Balvin will stop at Kaseya Center on March 22, 2025, for his Back to the Rayo Tour.
Enigmatic Sand Sculpture at Miami Beach Park Sparks Curiosity
A large phallic shape was etched into the sand at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park in Miami. The sand sculpture, approximately 100 feet long, first appeared sometime after December 2015 and remained visible until at least 2024. The occurrence sparked amusement and speculation online regarding its origin and intent.
Duct-Taped Banana Art Installation to be Auctioned
In 2019, Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan’s work titled “Comedian” featuring a banana duct-taped to a wall became a viral sensation at Art Basel Miami. Two editions were sold for $120,000 each. The work sparked discussions about the nature of art and its value. In 2020, a copy was donated to the Guggenheim Museum. In 2022, one of the remaining editions is set to be auctioned by Sotheby’s for an estimated $1 to $1.5 million.
Arts Organizations Seek Support During Miami’s Annual Give Miami Day Fundraiser
Give Miami Day is an annual fundraising event for local nonprofits and community organizations. This year, arts organizations are in dire need of support due to funding cuts from the state and county. An anonymous million-dollar donation will match each unique donation to arts groups with an additional $25. The Miami Foundation stresses that funds raised are unrestricted, allowing organizations to use the money as needed. Ten arts organizations highlighted, including dance, theater, music, literary, and youth development groups, are seeking support during the event.
Broward’s Char-Hut: Serving Delicious Charbroiled Burgers for Over 48 Years
Char-Hut is a Broward burger chain founded in 1976 by Joe and Cathy Cammisa. It is known for its charbroiled burgers with a smoky flavor cooked in an open-flame method. The family-owned business has expanded to 13 locations across South Florida and is currently run by the third generation. Char-Hut maintains a retro ambiance and commitment to quality, offering fresh ingredients and customizable toppings.
Aventura Commissioner’s Deli Caters City Meetings, Raising Ethical Concerns
The City of Aventura continued ordering catering from Mo’s Bagels & Deli after the business’s co-owner Paul Kruss was elected as city commissioner, raising potential conflict of interest concerns. The city attorney warned about ethics rules preventing elected officials from doing business with their own city without a competitive bidding process. Despite this, records show Aventura spent nearly $6,000 on catering from Mo’s after Kruss took office without evidence of competitive bidding. The mayor expressed concerns about the allegations and committed to seeking answers.
Miami Hosts Diverse Arts and Culture Events This Week
Miami offers various events and activities this week. On Monday, Books & Books hosts Palms & Poetry, an open mic for poets and spoken word artists. On Tuesday, Ruka Winewood presents a wine tasting event with food pairings and art activities. On Wednesday, the Miami Beach Edition offers a relaxing floating sound bath experience. Gramps hosts Vinyl Time, allowing attendees to bring records and DJ.
Diplo, Dustin Lynch, Vale Genta Enliven Miami Nightlife Scene
Diplo performed at E11even, delivering his signature beats to a fired-up crowd. Country singer Dustin Lynch brought a high-energy performance to LIV. Vale and Sebastian Genta hosted an exclusive happy hour at Uma House. The Pérez Art Museum Miami Art of the Party gala honored philanthropist Kenneth C. Griffin and announced his $10 million gift.
Man jumps from building in Miami, limiting road access during investigation
Man jumped from sixth floor of River Landing building in Miami. Road near River Landing limited to residents during rush hour due to police investigation. Officers investigated incident as suicide attempt. Access to road reopened around 7 p.m. after initial investigation.
Miami-Dade County Considers No-Bid Land Deal for Homestead Soccer Stadium Despite Mayor’s Opposition
A no-bid deal is proposed for county land in Homestead to build a soccer stadium and sports complex. The $300 million project includes a 10,000-seat stadium for men’s and women’s pro soccer teams, a sports academy, and a hotel. The mayor of Homestead was not informed and opposes the plan. The company behind the deal has made significant political donations to county commissioners sponsoring the proposal.
Miami Tire Shop Brawl: One Brother Shot, Both Arrested for Assaulting Mechanic
Two brothers assaulted a mechanic at a tire shop. One brother was shot in the leg during the altercation. The mechanic sustained injuries but was not arrested. Both brothers were arrested and face charges of aggravated assault.
Man pleads not guilty to murder, car theft after victim’s burned body found
A man was accused of murdering another man, burning his body, stealing his car, and fleeing from police. The victim’s body was found charred in the Redland area. The suspect pleaded not guilty to charges including second-degree murder and grand theft. He was arrested after a police chase and crash. Detectives found evidence linking him to the crime scene.
School board leadership elected in Miami-Dade and Broward counties
Miami-Dade and Broward County school boards elected new chairs and vice chairs. In Miami-Dade, the vote was along party lines with Republicans electing Mari Tere Rojas as chair and Monica Colucci as vice chair. Broward unanimously elected Debra Hixon as chair and Sarah Leonardi as vice chair. Broward’s board has no DeSantis appointees after two lost their re-election bids, making it a Democratic-leaning board.
Florida Braces for Chilly Thanksgiving Weekend with Dropping Temperatures
Florida is experiencing a temperature drop ahead of Thanksgiving. Two cold fronts will bring temperatures in the 30s, 40s, and 50s for parts of the state by the weekend. The first dip occurs Wednesday morning with lows in the low 60s across South Florida. The second front arrives Thursday night through the weekend, with lows in the 50s for Southeast Florida, 40s near Lake Okeechobee, and 30s in the Panhandle. Highs will range from the upper 70s on Thursday to the low 70s over the weekend. Rain chances are low after Wednesday, but rip currents are elevated along Atlantic beaches.
Hialeah Trio Convicted for $14.5 Million Pandemic Loan Fraud
Hialeah-based Heidi Cid, Lazaro Verdecia Hernandez, and Yadier Rodriguez Arteaga hatched a plot to fraudulently obtain $14.5 million from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan program during the COVID-19 pandemic. They submitted 147 fabricated loan applications, and 64 were approved, distributing the funds to ineligible companies. The associates kicked back a portion of the loan proceeds to the trio. Cid pleaded guilty and faces up to five years in prison, while Verdecia and Rodriguez were convicted and face up to 20 years in prison.
Miami-Dade Considers Limited Ban on Single-Use Plastics to Address Waste Problem
Miami-Dade County faces a growing waste problem and is considering a limited ban on single-use plastics and styrofoam at county-owned venues. The proposed resolution would eliminate these items at places like Miami International Airport, PortMiami, parks, and office buildings, and instead, sell aluminum bottles or cans or serve food on washable ceramic or compostable plates. Experts and activists argue that reducing and diverting waste is crucial, as plastics have been linked to environmental and health issues. However, industry groups warn of potential financial impacts on small businesses that rely on plastic products.
Spirit Airlines Files for Bankruptcy After Failed Merger Attempts
Spirit Airlines filed for bankruptcy. The airline declared bankruptcy after failed merger attempts. Spirit says travelers can continue booking and flying flights as usual. Employees will not experience changes to wages or benefits. Spirit expects to emerge from bankruptcy in early 2025.
Stroke Survivor Regains Arm Movement with Nerve Stimulation Implant
A stroke changed a Miami teacher’s life. She became the first South Florida patient to get an FDA-approved nerve stimulation implant designed to help stroke survivors regain movement in arms and hands. The small pacemaker-like device, implanted in the chest, electrically stimulates the vagus nerve during rehabilitation to rewire the brain. After weeks of therapy using the device, the teacher noticed improvement in her hand’s strength and ability to perform tasks. The device has shown to benefit even patients years after their stroke by generating more arm and hand function than therapy alone.
Florida Gas Prices Rise, Averaging $3.12 per Gallon
Florida gas prices increased to $3.12 per gallon on average. Some areas like North Florida average less than $2.80 per gallon. Miami and Palm Beach County have higher prices around $3.27 per gallon. Nationwide, the average gas price decreased slightly to $3.07 per gallon. Analysts expect further decreases, with some states already below $3 per gallon.
South Florida Apartment Rents Drop from Peaks in 2022 and 2023
Median rent in South Florida is $2,376 per month in 2024, down from $2,470 in 2023 and $2,560 in 2022. Median U.S. rent is $1,619 per month in 2024, about the same as 2023. South Florida rent data is for apartments with at least five units, excluding condos and single-family homes.
Muslim group aims for new cemetery in Miami-Dade, facing neighborhood opposition
A Muslim group seeks approval to build a new cemetery in Redland area of Miami-Dade County to serve the growing Muslim population. Neighbors oppose the rezoning for the cemetery, citing concerns about property values, environmental issues and increased traffic. The Muslim community argues there is a religious need for proper Islamic burial practices which require prompt burial. The decision lies with the county commissioners after zoning board review.
Post Malone Announces BIG ASS Stadium Tour with Miami Stop
Post Malone’s BIG ASS Stadium Tour is coming to Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on June 5, 2025. Registration for tickets is ongoing, with presales starting November 20 and general sale on November 26. The 25-stadium tour also includes dates in Salt Lake City, Las Vegas, Dallas, Atlanta, New York and Toronto. Jelly Roll and Sierra Ferrell are support acts, but Jelly Roll will not perform at the Miami show.
Woman shot dead in Miami Gardens, police investigating
Woman found shot multiple times in Miami Gardens. Police found her on Northwest 167th Street and 27th Avenue. She died from gunshot wounds. Authorities investigating the shooting incident.
Motorcyclist injured in Hialeah Gardens crash; woman shot dead in Miami Gardens
A motorcyclist was sent to the hospital after a crash with a car in Hialeah Gardens. A woman was found shot to death outside an apartment complex in Miami Gardens. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding both incidents.
9-year-old Boy Shot and Killed in Florida City, Investigation Ongoing
A 9-year-old boy named Antavious Scott was shot and killed while standing outside an apartment complex in Florida City on Saturday night, November 16, 2024. Miami-Dade Police is investigating the case but did not have additional information. The boy’s death has devastated his family and friends, who are calling for the police to do more. Local police departments and a youth advocacy group expressed dismay over Antavious Scott’s death and announced a $5,000 reward for information leading to an arrest.
Lottery Players in Palm Beach and Kendall Win $153,000 from Publix and Convenience Stores
Lottery tickets bought at a Publix, 7-Eleven, and Cumberland Farms in Palm Beach and Kendall won a combined $153,000. Two Fantasy 5 midday draw tickets matched the winning numbers and are worth $26,792 each. One evening Fantasy 5 ticket won $100,430. The tickets can be redeemed at Florida Lottery district offices during business hours.
Veteran Marine Major Launches Black-Owned Scotch Brand After Food Network Triumph
Marine Major Eric Dominijanni won a grilling contest against celebrity chef Bobby Flay in 2006. After retiring from the military in 2017, he began blending scotch at home. With help from an old friend, James Landis, Dominijanni launched Fior, the only Black-owned and veteran-owned scotch brand in America. Fior is now available online and in stores nationwide, with plans to expand to Florida by 2025.
Man stabbed after intervening in harassment, suspect at large; brothers arrested after attacking mechanic
A man with blue hair stabbed a customer outside a restaurant on Tuesday night. The customer intervened after the suspect harassed a waitress. Police are searching for the suspect. A man was shot by a mechanic at a tire shop after he and his brother attacked the worker over a previous repair job. Both brothers were arrested and charged.
Pregnant woman murdered by partner; 18 migrants arrive by boat
Pregnant woman killed by children’s father who left goodbye notes. Eighteen migrants from China and Ecuador landed by boat in Pompano Beach. Father had history of domestic violence arrests but cases dismissed. Boat hit another before dropping migrants off at canal.
Man arrested for lewd acts, trespassing at middle school
Man returned to school where he exposed himself. He was arrested for lewd acts, trespassing, and fleeing police. Video shows him masturbating in car at school. He fled when approached, driving recklessly in active school zone.
Accused Drunk Driver Deported, Evading Prosecution for Triple Fatal Crash
Erwin Rommel Recinos Zuniga, accused of causing a triple fatal crash while drunk driving, was deported to Honduras in September 2022, avoiding justice. Miami-Dade state attorneys claim they are working with the federal government to bring him back. Paola Sabillon, Jason Meza, and Giselle Reyes died from injuries sustained in the February 2022 crash. Miami-Dade Corrections has denied explaining the details of the deportation and claims to have updated policies to prevent such incidents.
South Florida Winn-Dixie stores converted to Aldi
Multiple South Florida Winn-Dixie stores are being converted to Aldi discount grocery stores. One store in Boynton Beach has closed for renovations, while others will close beginning in January. The stores being converted are located in Aventura, Fort Lauderdale, and Westlake. Workers have the opportunity to apply at new Aldi stores or transfer to other Winn-Dixie locations.
FIU Shuttle Bus Fire Forces Evacuation, Vehicle Sustains Heavy Damage
FIU shuttle bus caught fire. Students and driver evacuated safely. Bus suffered major damage. Cause of fire unknown.
UPS driver kidnapped and killed during armed robbery and police shootout in Florida
On December 5, 2019, armed robbers struck a jewelry store in Coral Gables, Florida. They fled and kidnapped a UPS driver, Frank Ordonez, demanding he drive their getaway van. One hour later, a shootout occurred with police in Miramar, resulting in the deaths of Ordonez, the robbers, and a bystander.
Newborn Left at Florida Firehouse Reunites with Rescuers After Two Decades
A newborn was left at a Florida firehouse in 2003. Gloria Lewis, 21, recently reunited with the firefighters who took her in as a newborn. The firefighters named her Hope before turning her over to authorities. Gloria was allowed to be left at the station due to Florida’s Safe Haven Law. A Safe Haven for Newborns facilitated her adoption to the Lewises, who named her Gloria Hope.
Cruise line introduces high-tech wearable device for personalized vacation experience
The Princess Cruise Line has introduced a wearable device called the medallion on their Sun Princess ship. The medallion is packed with technology and connects to sensors on the ship. It provides personalized service by storing guests’ information and preferences. The medallion unlocks cabin doors automatically and allows guests to order food from anywhere. It also links family members together to track locations.
Man pleads not guilty in 2016 kidnapping case of Doral woman and daughter
Gustavo Castaño Restrepo pleaded not guilty to kidnapping resulting in death of Liliana Moreno and her daughter Daniela who went missing in 2016. Restrepo was arrested last month by FBI over their disappearance after being a person of interest. He could face death penalty if convicted. Moreno’s brother hopes to find out what happened to them.
Four Family Members Killed in Northwest Miami-Dade Crash
Four members of a family, including an 8-year-old boy, were killed in a three-vehicle crash in northwest Miami-Dade. The crash occurred around 1 a.m. on Saturday near Northwest 72nd Avenue and Northwest 74th Street. Police have identified the deceased as 29-year-old Liudmila Lara Rodriguez, her 48-year-old mother Lainet Guarita Rodriguez, Jose Yance, and 8-year-old Bryan Cardoso. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Hialeah Apartment Fire Hospitalizes Elderly Couple, Destroys Home
An apartment fire in Hialeah left an elderly couple hospitalized and their home destroyed. The son said his parents, Silvia and Andres, were inside when the fire broke out, likely caused by a portable air conditioner. His father had to be rescued by fire crews and given CPR due to smoke inhalation. The couple’s pet dog also suffered from smoke inhalation. The son stated they are now homeless as their apartment was completely destroyed in the fire.
Former Florida Senator Jailed for Orchestrating ‘Ghost Candidate’ Scheme
Frank Artiles, a former Republican state senator, was sentenced to 60 days in jail and probation for charges related to a “ghost candidate” scheme. He was found guilty of excessive campaign contributions, conspiracy, and procuring falsification of a candidate oath form. Artiles recruited a third-party candidate to siphon votes from the Democratic incumbent in the 2020 District 37 race. The Republican candidate won by a narrow margin. Artiles intends to appeal the sentence.
Spirit Airlines Files for Chapter 11 Bankruptcy amid Financial Struggles
Spirit Airlines filed for bankruptcy. The airline lost over $2.5 billion since 2020 and faces over $1 billion in debt payments. Spirit plans to operate normally during bankruptcy proceedings. Customers can continue booking flights, and loyalty programs remain valid. Spirit struggled financially due to rising costs, increased competition, and a decline in leisure travel fares.