Panama City Beach Police Chief J.R. Talamantez says law enforcement is prepared to prevent a repeat of the violence that has plagued recent spring break seasons.
Last year, several shootings involving unaccompanied minors occurred, including an incident near Pier Park that injured at least three bystanders just feet from police officers.
“Our problem is unaccompanied minors carrying high-capacity firearms,” Talamantez said. “That’s something we need to cancel.”
In response, Panama City Beach Police, the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice have increased staffing, surveillance, and enforcement tools. A mobile booking station will also be available to speed up arrests and processing.
“With this partnership, manpower is not an issue this year,” said Stephen Jencks. “We’re going to do everything we can to curb the lawlessness seen in the past.”
A high-impact enforcement period will run from March 28 through April 11, enforcing curfews and vacation rental rules. Unaccompanied minors are prohibited from being on the streets after 8 p.m., and those under 21 are not allowed to rent vacation properties.
Talamantez also issued a warning to parents, saying they will be held responsible if their children commit crimes while visiting.
Police additionally caution spring breakers about social media flyers promoting unsanctioned parties, which they say are often scams.
Law enforcement officials stress that safety is a shared responsibility and urge visitors to follow the rules to ensure a peaceful spring break season.
During her time shadowing, Peyson had the opportunity to work with both the Training Division and the Academy Division, gaining firsthand insight into how law enforcement officers are trained and prepared for the job.
Her experience included: • Law enforcement training through Axon Virtual Reality • Hands-on training using the Meggitt Interactive System • Participation in legal training alongside Wiregrass Law Enforcement Academy – Class 9
What an incredible, hands-on learning experience—and a perfect example of career exploration done right. Way to go, Peyson! 💙
PIKE COUNTY – TROY: 02:00 HRS In the early morning hours Sunday morning Troy University went to make a traffic stop. At the time of the writing it is unknown the reason for the traffic stop.
The person “in front” of the blue lights made a conscious decision to not obey the blue lights and pull over. It was not the person “under” the blue lights who made that decision, which in the end was a life ending decision.
There was a pursuit. That pursuit ended on Elm Street in Troy. The vehicle being pursued by Troy University Police struck multiple telephone poles and trees resulting in the traumatic death of the driver and passenger. Both the driver and passenger were pronounced dead on the scene.
Emergency crews worked several hours on the scene of the accident conducting the investigation. ALEA – Troopers are in charge of the accident investigation.
On scene and assisting, Troy Municipal Police Department, Pike County Sheriff Department, Troy Fire Department, Haynes Ambulance, Pike County Coroner’s Office.
12:30 A.M.DOTHAN, Ala. — A high-speed police pursuit that began in Kinsey ended in a crash in Dothan, sending multiple patients to area hospitals and shutting down a major roadway.
According to information known to RSN, the pursuit reached speeds of more than 120 miles per hour before entering Ross Clark Circle. Speeds were reported at approximately 115 miles per hour while inside the circle. The fleeing vehicle traveled along Reeves Street and continued toward the center of Dothan.
The pursuit ended on South Oates Street at Crawford Street, where the fleeing driver crashed, believed to be into another vehicle.
At this time, four patients have been reported. One patient was transported to Southeast Health under trauma alert by Dothan Fire Medics and Pilcher’s Ambulance Service. Another patient was transported to Flowers Hospital under trauma alert status. The extent of injuries for the remaining patients is unknown at this time.
South Oates Street is closed to traffic in both northbound and southbound directions at the crash site, approximately one block south of Main Street and Oates Street.
This remains a developing story. RSN will provide updates as additional information becomes available.
The Daleville Chapter 566 of the Order of the Eastern Star will host its 3rd Annual Mardi Gras Fundraiser Ball on Saturday, Feb. 7.
The event will take place from 7 p.m. to midnight at Hilltop Acres, located at 850 Hilltop Road in Newton.
Organizers say the Mardi Gras–themed evening will include dinner, dancing, and fellowship. Non-alcoholic beverages will be provided, and the event is BYOB.
Tickets are $75 for single admission or $100 per couple.
For more information or to purchase tickets, call or text 334-333-8913.
Dothan Leisure Services has partnered with the Dothan Civitan Club to host a Spaghetti Fundraiser on Friday, February 20, 2026, at the Doug Tew Therapeutic Recreation Center, located at 300 Garland Street.
The fundraiser will be held from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with proceeds benefiting two signature events of the Dothan Leisure Services Therapeutics Program: Family Fun Day and the annual Fall Carnival. Both events are designed to celebrate inclusion and provide meaningful, joyful experiences for individuals with special needs and their families.
Plates are $10 each and include spaghetti with meat sauce, bread, and a brownie. Guests may choose to dine in or take advantage of convenient carry-out options. Delivery is available within Dothan city limits for orders of 20 plates or more.
For ticket information, contact Cathy Sizemore at 334-615-3720 or csizemore@dothan.org, or Maggie Nickoley at 334-477-0626 or margaret.nickoley@covan.com. For large orders and delivery arrangements, contact Angie Lowe at 334-797-6574 or alowe@dothan.org.
Community members are encouraged to support this fundraiser and help make these inclusive events possible for families across the Wiregrass.
