News Update for 3/31/25

Police responded to a bomb threat at the North Sebring Winn-Dixie just after 10 a.m. Sunday. Authorities say a man called the store, claiming he had placed an explosive inside and demanded money, threatening to detonate it if his demands weren’t met. Sebring Police and the Highlands County Sheriff’s Office quickly secured the area, evacuating nearby businesses. A bomb-sniffing K9 unit from the State Fire Marshal’s Office conducted a search, ultimately finding no explosives. Officials later discovered a similar threat was made to another Winn-Dixie in a different county. The incident was deemed unfounded, and no real danger was present.

Fire crews battled a fast-moving brush fire in Sebring on Saturday after a vehicle fire on Golfview Road spread into nearby vegetation. Initially spreading to five acres, the fire prompted a mutual aid response from Sebring Fire Department, Highlands County Fire Rescue, and the Florida Forest Service. By evening, Sebring Fire units cleared the scene, while county and state crews continued containment efforts. The fire was eventually 100% contained at 50 acres. No evacuation orders were issued, but residents nearby were advised to stay prepared.

An Avon Park woman has been arrested in connection with a violent armed carjacking, kidnapping, and attempted murder in Highlands County. Authorities say 32-year-old Darrisha Shambria Gibson was an accessory in the March 22nd attack. Investigators report Gibson and 29-year-old Joshua Yamir Torres were picked up by the victim, who was later assaulted and held at gunpoint. Gibson took over driving while Torres forced the victim to a secluded area, where he attempted to execute him—but the gun malfunctioned. A struggle ensued, and the victim managed to escape. Gibson is now in the Highlands County Jail, facing multiple felony charges, including attempted murder and armed carjacking. She is being held without bail.

The Avon Park City Council has voted to rename Ernest E. Sims Street to comply with county naming conventions, citing concerns over emergency response delays caused by the street’s break at the railroad tracks. Family members of Ernest Sims spoke at the meeting, highlighting his contributions to education and the community. Proposed new names include Prof. E. Sims, Prof. Sims, and Clarence Spry. Some residents opposed the change, arguing to keep Sims’ name intact. Despite objections, the council unanimously approved the name change. A memorial sign honoring Sims will be placed, with Mayor Garrett Anderson volunteering to cover the cost.