Hurricane Irma’s Toll, Inmate Death, Built For Fun

Patch operates 24 daily news sites in the Tampa Bay area and surrounding counties. The following are some of the top stories from the past day:

Clearwater Beach Home Built For Fun

House hunters with a passion for entertaining and having a good time might find this sprawling estate in Clearwater Beach to their liking. Featuring waterfront views from most rooms and wrap-around outdoor living spaces, the home capitalizes on its natural setting.

Inmate’s Death Under Investigation, Sarasota Sheriff Says

The Wednesday morning death of a Sarasota County Jail inmate has sparked an investigation.

Florida Seawater Bacteria Claims 5th Life

The Florida Department of Health has confirmed the state’s fourth Vibrio vulnificus bacteria-related death in 2017. Twenty-eight other people have been sickened by the seawater bacteria in counties across the state since the year began, including several from the Tampa Bay area.

Lee Elementary Fire Blamed On Hurricane Irma

Hurricane Irma created a perfect storm of conditions for sparking the fire that ultimately led to the destruction of Tampa’s Lee Elementary School. That’s the conclusion of Tampa Fire Marshal John Reed following his agency’s investigation into the Sept. 12 blaze that rendered the school a loss.

Bucs Vs. Patriots: Scam, Traffic Warnings Issued By Police

As the Tampa Bay Buccaneers prepare for their nationally televised, sold-out game against the New England Patriots Thursday, police have issued warnings to help keep fans and residents safe. Of particular concern is the potential for ticket scammers to part fans and their money. Police are also expecting the game coupled with weeknight, rush-hour traffic will create a mess for commuters.

Hurricane Irma’s Impact On Florida Agriculture Hits $2.5 Billion

The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services has released its preliminary estimate of the financial toll Hurricane Irma took on the state’s agriculture industry. At $2.5 billion, the number is sizable. Officials, however, warn the figure is likely to change and not in a good way.

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