Cops Called On Soccer Prodigy | Man Drowns Trying To Save Bird | Hulk Hogan's Mansion Sold: FL News

On the weekend, we present a week in review of the top stories and headlines from across Florida. Here's a roundup of some of the biggest and quirkiest stories across the state. You can also find your local Patch and catch up on those stories by clicking here.

FL Police Called On 3-Year-Old Soccer Prodigy In Latest High-Profile Youth Sports Controversy

A 3-year-old Florida soccer prodigy and internet sensation is at the center of a bizarre controversy after police were called to one of his games, with his parents insisting he was being punished for being too good at the sport.

Theme Park Workers, School Resource Officer Among 281 Arrested In Massive FL Sex Crimes Sting

A massive undercover operation targeting human trafficking and suspected child sexual predators resulted in 281 arrests across Central Florida, including employees of Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, an Orange County sheriff's deputy and a youth football coach.

Hulk Hogan's FL Mansion Sold For Nearly Half Of Original Listing Price

The beachfront Florida mansion where professional wrestling legend Hulk Hogan died last year has sold for $5.9 million, far below its original asking price.

More Than $200K Raised For Family Of FL Father Who Drowned Trying To Save Bird

A GoFundMe campaign has raised more than $205,000 for the family of a 32-year-old Florida man who reportedly drowned while attempting to rescue a bird tangled in his fishing line.

10-Time Convicted Felon Arrested In Fatal Tampa Shooting: Hillsborough Sheriff

A 10-time convicted felon has been arrested in connection with a fatal Tuesday night shooting in Tampa.

Sarasota Police Department Takes Over City Parking Operations

The Sarasota Police Department assumed oversight of the city’s parking operations on Wednesday, bringing Parking Services under the agency’s Patrol Division in a move that will improve employee safety and customer service.

Farm-To-Table Restaurant Opens In St. Pete’s Edge District

A new farm-to-table restaurant recently held its soft opening in St. Petersburg’s Edge District.

Clearwater Beach Bar Reopens 2 Years After Hurricane Milton

Two years after suffering damage during Hurricane Milton in 2024, another Clearwater Beach bar has reopened its doors with a new name.

Tampa Ranks High In U.S. for High-Wage Job Growth, Tampa Bay EDC Says

Tampa has made a significant leap in the national rankings for high-wage job growth, rising from No. 30 last year to No. 4 among the nation’s largest metropolitan areas, according to the Lightcast 2026 Talent Attraction Report.

Wrestler Ric Flair Recovering After Fall Outside Tampa Restaurant

Wrestling legend Ric Flair is recovering after a recent fall outside a Tampa restaurant sent him to Tampa General Hospital, where he received treatment for injuries to his head and eye.