Elderly Ocala Pedestrian Killed on U.S. Highway 441

The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal pedestrian crash that occurred Friday night, October 30, in Ocala.

Troopers say a 78-year-old Ocala man was struck by a northbound sedan near the intersection of U.S. Highway 441 and Southeast 11th Avenue at approximately 9:20 p.m.

According to the preliminary investigation, the pedestrian was walking within the right northbound travel lane when he was struck by a vehicle driven by a 53-year-old Ocala man.

The pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver was not injured.

Northbound lanes of U.S. Highway 441 were temporarily closed while emergency crews investigated.

The death marks at least the ninth pedestrian fatality reported in Marion County during 2026.

Marion County Health Department Issues Rabies Alert Near Sparr

The Florida Department of Health in Marion County has issued a rabies alert following confirmation of the disease in a raccoon found in the Sparr area.

Health officials say the infected animal was killed near 22nd Terrace on October 23.

The department warns that rabies may be present in the area's wildlife population.

Residents are encouraged to keep pets and livestock vaccinated, avoid handling wild or stray animals, and prevent wildlife from entering homes or other occupied buildings.

Anyone bitten or scratched by a potentially infected animal should seek immediate medical attention and contact the Marion County Health Department.

Health Department: 352-629-0137

Marion County Animal Services: 352-671-8727

Rabies is a serious viral disease, but prompt medical treatment following an exposure can prevent infection.

Ocala Man Charged with DUI Manslaughter in Crash That Killed Two

Ocala Police have arrested a man accused of driving under the influence and causing a September crash that killed two people.

Joel Gonzalo Zelaya, 33, was arrested Friday, October 30, and charged with two counts of DUI manslaughter.

The charges stem from a September 29 collision at Southeast Maricamp Road and Southeast 36th Avenue.

The victims were identified as De Lawn Marshall Duncan and Eric Maurice McGill.

According to investigators, Zelaya and his brother acknowledged drinking at a bar before the crash.

Police say blood-alcohol testing showed Zelaya's alcohol concentration exceeded the legal limit.

The case has also prompted an internal affairs investigation involving an Ocala police officer who reportedly stopped Zelaya shortly before the fatal crash but allowed him to continue driving without conducting a DUI investigation.

Zelaya was booked into the Marion County Jail.

The criminal charges remain allegations, and Zelaya is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

VOCAL Plans Major Veterinary Center Expansion in Southwest Ocala

A Marion County animal-welfare nonprofit is proposing a major expansion designed to address pet overpopulation and increase access to veterinary services.

Voices of Change Animal League, commonly known as VOCAL, has submitted plans to construct two new buildings totaling approximately 8,700 square feet at its campus at 6393 Southwest 52nd Street.

The proposed development includes a 6,187-square-foot Veterinary Clinic and Resource Center and a separate 2,507-square-foot Veterinary Quarantine and Isolation Building.

The new facilities would expand VOCAL's existing veterinary and animal-care operations.

The organization provides low-cost spay and neuter services, emergency veterinary assistance, pet food distribution, and rescue programs.

Its Project FEED initiative helps provide food to thousands of animals belonging to families experiencing financial hardship.

The proposed expansion is scheduled for review by the Marion County Development Review Committee today, November 2.

Construction has not yet been approved.

Early Voting Ends; Marion County Prepares for Tuesday's Election

Early voting has concluded in Marion County ahead of tomorrow's general election.

The county offered early voting at nine locations over a ten-day period ending Saturday, October 31.

Voters who did not cast ballots early may vote in person on Tuesday, November 3, at their assigned Election Day precinct.

Unlike early voting, Election Day voting requires residents to report to their designated polling location.

Voters should bring an accepted form of photo and signature identification.

Local ballot questions include the renewal of school funding and a proposed conservation bond.

Residents can confirm their assigned polling place and review election information through the Marion County Supervisor of Elections.

Animal Rights Protest Planned Outside Ocala Circus Today

Animal-rights organization PETA is planning a demonstration outside a Loomis Bros. Circus performance in Ocala today, November 2.

The group is calling for the retirement of a 56-year-old elephant that continues to travel and perform with the circus.

The demonstration is part of PETA's ongoing campaign against the use of elephants and other wild animals in traveling entertainment.

The organization has raised allegations about the treatment of circus elephants, including concerns involving the animal's trainer.

The allegations should not be treated as established findings without independent verification.

The planned protest is expected to draw attention to animal welfare and the use of performing animals.