News from the South - Florida News Feed

Sebring bank shooter sentenced to death for murders of 5 people in 2019

Published

5 months ago

December 17, 2024

www.youtube.com – ABC Action News – 2024-12-17 09:00:58

SUMMARY: Zephen Xavier has been sentenced to death by a Florida judge for the 2019 mass shooting at a Sebring bank, where he killed five women. Xavier pleaded guilty to five counts of first-degree murder, and a jury recommended the death penalty. The victims, four bank employees and a customer, were executed in a planned attack. Xavier showed no emotion during the sentencing. The judge noted the premeditated nature of the crime, citing evidence of Xavier’s intentions in the weeks before the murders. The victim’s families expressed satisfaction with the decision, with one stating they would “pull the switch” if allowed.

A Highlands County judge has sentenced Zephen Xaver to death for the shooting deaths of five people inside a Suntrust Bank in 2019 in Sebring. This comes after a jury recommended the death penalty earlier in 2024. In Xaver’s case, on all counts, the jury split by a 9-3 vote on recommending the death penalty. Earlier this year, jurors heard closing arguments from lawyers on both sides, starting with the state.

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News from the South - Florida News Feed

India and Pakistan face off over Kashmir attack. Here’s where the rivals stand

Published

3 hours ago

May 5, 2025

Staff Editor

www.news4jax.com – Sheikh Saaliq, Associated Press – 2025-05-05 04:25:00

SUMMARY: India and Pakistan are in a tense standoff following a deadly attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir on April 22, which killed 26 mostly Hindu tourists. India blames Pakistan-backed militants for the attack, a charge Pakistan denies. Both nations have expelled diplomats, closed borders, and restricted airspace, with India suspending a key water-sharing treaty. Pakistan claims to have intelligence of a possible Indian strike, though no military action has occurred. Global leaders urge restraint and the UN is set to discuss the crisis. Amid escalating border skirmishes, India has launched a crackdown in Kashmir, causing fear among locals. Both countries have tested missiles, heightening conflict fears.

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News from the South - Florida News Feed

Ruud beats Draper in Madrid Open final to win his first Masters 1000 title

Published

16 hours ago

May 4, 2025

Staff Editor

www.clickorlando.com – Tales Azzoni, Associated Press – 2025-05-04 15:41:00

SUMMARY: Casper Ruud became the first Norwegian to win a Masters 1000 title, defeating Jack Draper 7-5, 3-6, 6-4 in the Madrid Open final. Ruud overcame a 5-3 deficit in the first set and sealed the win with a break at 2-2 in the third. The victory marked a significant milestone in Ruud’s career, propelling him back into the top 10 at No. 7. He expressed pride in his performance, acknowledging Draper’s strong play. Ruud, known for his clay court dominance, earned his 13th tour title and the first Norwegian Masters 1000 win since 1990 .

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News from the South - Florida News Feed

Brazilian police arrest two people over plot to bomb Lady Gaga’s concert in Rio

Published

22 hours ago

May 4, 2025

Staff Editor

www.news4jax.com – Associated Press – 2025-05-04 10:18:00

SUMMARY: Brazilian police arrested two people in connection with an alleged bomb plot targeting Lady Gaga’s concert in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday. The concert, attended by around 2 million fans at Copacabana Beach, was the largest of the pop star’s career. Authorities said the plot was orchestrated by a group spreading hate speech against the LGBTQ community and seeking to recruit teenagers for attacks using explosives. Police raided 15 locations across Brazil, arresting suspects and confiscating devices. The group had used Lady Gaga’s fan nickname, “Little Monsters,” to lure teens online into violent content. The concert proceeded without incident.

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