Two Men Killed in Southeast Ocala Shooting; One Person in Custody
Ocala Police are investigating a double-fatal shooting that occurred Wednesday evening, October 28, in southeast Ocala.
Officers were notified of the incident at approximately 5:32 p.m. and responded to the 1000 block of Southeast Eighth Street.
Upon arriving, officers discovered two adult men suffering from gunshot wounds.
One victim was found inside a residence and pronounced dead at the scene.
The second victim was transported to a local hospital, where he later died.
Police took a third adult man into custody in connection with the incident.
As of early Thursday morning, authorities had not publicly released the identities of the victims or the person detained.
Investigators described the shooting as an isolated incident and said there was no ongoing danger to the public.
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation.
Major Step Forward for Proposed Thoroughbred Racetrack in Marion County
A proposal to bring live Thoroughbred horse racing to Marion County has reached a significant milestone.
The Florida Thoroughbred Breeders' and Owners' Association, working with Gilligan Racing LLC, announced Wednesday that the partners have secured control of approximately 300 acres for a proposed racing facility.
The project would operate under Florida's remaining Thoroughbred racing permit, which is held by Ocala Thoroughbred Racing.
The proposed development is intended to establish a premier Thoroughbred racing destination in the community widely known as the Horse Capital of the World.
John Morgan, founder of the Morgan & Morgan law firm and a participant in Gilligan Racing, says the project represents an opportunity to bring major racing events to the same region where many successful Thoroughbreds are bred and trained.
The development team also includes Ron Winchell, a prominent Thoroughbred owner and racing executive associated with Kentucky Downs.
The partners say the project remains in its early planning stages.
County and state approvals, infrastructure planning, financing arrangements and additional partnerships will be needed before the facility can become a reality.
A construction schedule and opening date have not been announced.
Marion County Fire Rescue Mourns Death of Veteran Firefighter
Marion County Fire Rescue is mourning the unexpected death of longtime firefighter Victor "Vic" Payette, who was 40 years old.
Department officials announced Wednesday that Payette had been found dead earlier that morning.
Payette began his career with Marion County Fire Rescue on May 22, 2006, following training at Lake Technical College's Fire Academy and Central Florida Community College's Emergency Medical Technician program.
During more than two decades of service, he worked at multiple fire stations throughout Marion County.
Fire Chief James Banta expressed condolences to Payette's family, friends and fellow firefighters.
Banta also emphasized the importance of supporting one another during difficult times.
The department has asked the community to respect the family's privacy as they grieve.
No additional circumstances surrounding Payette's death were disclosed in the initial announcement.
More Than 61,000 Marion County Residents Have Already Voted
Early voting participation in Marion County continues to grow ahead of the November 3 general election.
According to figures reported Wednesday morning by the Marion County Supervisor of Elections, 61,109 voters had already cast ballots.
That represents approximately 22.53 percent of the county's 271,268 active eligible voters.
Of those ballots, 35,926 were cast in person at early voting locations, while 25,183 were submitted by mail.
Early voting began Thursday, October 22, and continues through Saturday, October 31.
Polling locations are open daily from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m.
Registered Marion County voters may use any designated county early voting site.
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3.
Voters can find polling locations, sample ballots and election information through the Marion County Supervisor of Elections.
Marion County Voters to Decide School Funding and Conservation Measures
Two important local questions will appear on the November 3 general election ballot.
The first asks voters whether to continue the Marion County school district's optional one-mill property tax through June 2031.
The revenue supports programs and services including arts and music education, school safety, reading instruction, vocational education and certified teachers.
The second referendum proposes authorizing up to $140 million in general-obligation bonds over 20 years.
The bond proceeds would be used to acquire and protect conservation lands, forests, springs, drinking-water resources and agricultural property throughout Marion County.
Both measures require voter approval.
Residents are encouraged to review the official ballot language before voting.
