What we saw this past weekend is absolutely unacceptable, Panama City Beach Police Chief J.R. Talamantez said in a multi-agency press conference held late Monday morning. Image: Holly Gardner, The Craft Bar places equal emphasis on how a cocktail looks as on how it tastes, and the answer to both questions is wonderful! Legal Statement. FLORIDA SPRING BREAKERS CARRY ON IN PANAMA CITY, FAR AWAY FROM TROUBLES IN MIAMI BEACH. Rip currents have claimed the lives of 11 people within two weeks along the Gulf Coast, amid warnings from officials about the hazardous water conditions, according to preliminary data . Updated: Jun 25, 2023 / 01:22 PM CDT. At Gray, our journalists report, write, edit and produce the news content that informs the communities we serve. The menu at Firefly focuses on local seafood along with some more exotic fish flown in from around the globe. (Plus, its too late to worry about swimsuit season after youve already arrived.). She's seen some calm spring breaks and some crazy ones. The Beach Art Group is a fine place to start for advice and tours to discover the perfect piece to hang over your couch at home to remind you of your trip to the beach. Sheriff's spokesperson Michele Nicholson . One of them was Dianne Crockett, a Front Beach Road resident. This week-long celebration welcomes lobster lovers from near and far for the biggest lobster tournament and festival in the area. A fun Instagram opportunity near Pier Park is the row of colorful homes known locally as The Rainbow Houses. People do actually live in these charming little bungalows, but theyre generally pretty amiable about visitors taking photos in front of the houses that are painted in Easter egg hues. It is great to finally see that come to fruition and it is great to be back you know.. But eventually, you grew apart. WJHG-TV, a Panama City-based NBC affiliate, reported that authorities had made some 161 arrests, including the 78 from Alabama. It's not just residents who are concerned. Plan a farewell brunch at Grand Marlin Restaurant & Oyster Bar, a local favorite right on the water where you can watch fishing boats arrive and depart through huge marina-facing windows. Panama City Beach is situated on 27 miles of sugar-white sand beaches bordering clear, emerald-green waters where the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrew Bay converge. The seven deaths in Panama City Beach came between June 15 and 24. Published: Oct. 8, 2021 at 6:47 PM PDT MEXICO BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -The small town of Mexico Beach embarked on quite the journey after most of the town was destroyed by Hurricane Michael. The owner opened up a food truck on the same property where his restaurant once stood. An image from a press conference livestream shows some of the 75 weapons confiscated during one spring break weekend in Panama City Beach. Plus theres a fantastic menu of specialty coffee drinks. 75 firearms were seized by law enforcement.. In some ways, Panama City Beach is like that friend you had back in high school. Officials said they dont know how many guns were involved in the incident. Several bars and restaurants will compete for the title of "Best Bloody Mary in the Grand Lagoon.". For more information and this years full lineup, visit www.visitpanamacitybeach.com/events. Interviewed at the time, Talamantez told the station that people were acting a fool but that there had been no violence and that he would not characterize any of the activity as a riot. Hooker said she had to lock her gift shop'sdoors to keep everyone out. The Bay County Sheriffs Office, Panama City Beach Fire, and ECP Police and Fire are on the scene at this time. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions. Officers said as more of them arrived an unknown incident happened within the crowd and people began running toward South Thomas Drive. Fox News Flash top headlines are here. A plane has crashed near Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport. This is a developing story and well continue to update you as we learn more. (Joshua Comins/Fox News Digital). Instead, drop your bags and put on your flip-flops for a private pontoon boat excursion to nearby Shell Island. For more information, visit www.visitpanamacitybeach.com/mardi-gras/. The award-winning organization has earned industry accreditation (DMAP) from Destinations International, the worlds leading authority in destination marketing, and exists to drive economic opportunity, job creation, community sustainability and quality of life for its residents through marketing, promotion and stewardship of the destinations REAL.FUN.BEACH. PANAMA CITY, Fla. (WMBB) Three more people have drowned in rough surf in the Gulf of Mexico off Panama City Beach. "I think our government and law enforcement are doing the best they can do in situations like this. The event features competitions in categories including charter boats, recreational boats, kayaks and paddleboards. On a weekend excursion to Panama City Beach, youll probably end up spending quite a bit of time at Pier Park, the dining, shopping and entertainment complex right across the street from the beach at Russell-Fields Pier. 2023 FOX News Network, LLC. If youre looking for something thats both cultural and adventurous, plan a visit to the amazing Underwater Museum of Art off of Grayton Beach State Park where organized excursions take certified scuba divers to the worlds first permanent underwater sculpture garden about a mile offshore and almost 60 feet beneath the surface of the Gulf. We are thrilled to share our jam-packed calendar of award-winning events, ranging from country music festivals and exciting marathons to world-class culinary festivals, vintage car shows and more, shares President and CEO of Visit Panama City Beach, Dan Rowe. For more information, visit www.seabreezejazzfestival.com. This was not spring breakers. Events will take place at many locations throughout the beach. or redistributed. In a press release issued Tuesday afternoon, Panama City Beach addressed the recent string of drownings that set the city apart as having the highest number of beach fatalities for any single locale in the U.S. for 2023, according to a National . filet mignon plus a lobster tail. By browsing this site, we may share your information with our social media partners in accordance with our. MEXICO BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) -The small town of Mexico Beach embarked on quite the journey after most of the town was destroyed by Hurricane Michael in 2018. Beach Home for the Holidays, November 25-26. Rip current deaths, which include fatalities from high surf and sneaker waves, have trended up nationwide in recent years, hitting a high of 113 in 2021, according to the weather service. We were all here and like everyone else we were all shocked to see what happened, Ryan Harmon, Harmon Realty owner, said. Crowds remained on the sidewalks, while vehicular traffic was also heavy, he reportedly said. So trust me when I tell you, this is just a bad element of people who did this.. Market data provided by Factset. "Our staff had to continue to accommodate them in the middle of all this destructive behavior, so their safety was put at risk.". For more information, visit www.visitpanamacitybeach.com/events. Panama City Beach has the highest number of beach fatalities of any location in the US for 2023, including seven from June 15 through June 24, according to weather service data. Image: The Craft Bar, Sleep in late or roll out early for a walk on the beach. Over the weekend, they had used technology such as license plate readers and surveillance cameras to track people of interest, he said. It doesn't look that dangerous,'" Dusek said. New Years Eve Beach Ball Drop, December 31. Click HERE. And maybe check out Mandy on Facebook to see what shes been up to over the years. In addition, there will be single musicians and duos up on the Rendezvous deck throughout that day, and of course the historic nighttime jam session will happen both Friday and Saturday night. Prizes are awarded by species ranging from king mackerel to red grouper, amberjack and many more. The cocktail selection at Hang Five makes it an ideal spot to enjoy the last sunlight of the day and the first drink of the evening. By browsing this site, we may share your information with our social media partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy. . Talamantez and other said they had been braced for trouble for weeks or even months, related to a specific group of people allegedly motivated by a social media influencer. However, there were large crowds walking on the sidewalks, and through traffic along Front Beach Road. Image: Chris Chamberlain, The menu at Lizas is written all over the walls in a splash of whimsical color. This marks the second local drowning in less than a week. Panama City Beach Police, the Bay County Sheriffs Office and the Panama City Police Department held a news conference Sunday evening on the shooting. Friends and family put on their red, white and blue gear and gather on the sand to enjoy an electrifying firework show. These include championship golf courses, spas, sporting events, award-winning dining and diverse recreational activities. Your private pontoon will drop you off at a beach with sand the color and consistency of baby powder and easy access to both the Gulf-side and Bay-side beaches of Shell Island. At Gray, our journalists report, write, edit and produce the news content that informs the communities we serve. Tornado damage in Hosford, Fla., April 27, 2023. Talamantez said there was no framework in place to gauge the way social media could amplify a developing situation. One injured, 3 arrested in Panama City Beach shooting, Authorities investigate fatal Bay County hit and run, Check Out These Events at Kartona Electric Speedway. "The conditions at the time were severe, with single red flags indicating extreme water hazard," the release reads. They usually find you! We will not tolerate bad behavior in Panama City Beach in any way, shape or form. Pirates of the High Seas Fest, October 3-9. The resort offers several dining options ranging from casual to upscale, including some with lovely waterfront views. At Gray, our journalists report, write, edit and produce the news content that informs the communities we serve. More entertainment and live music will follow during the build up to midnight, when a dazzling fireworks display will accompany the lowering of a giant LED-lit beach ball to signify the beginning of 2023. PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. - Rowdy spring break crowds have forced curfews and led some establishments to close their doors from Miami Beach to Florida 's Panhandle. In addition, there will be several online activities including a virtual scavenger hunt, downloadable themed crafts, a digital pirate costume contest and more. "I felt unsafe in a place that I have called home for many years and that is a horrible feeling.". Market data provided by Factset. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Andersons Marina, the Panama City Beach Fishing Rodeo takes place during one of the best fishing periods of the year. When officers arrived people in the crowd began throwing bottles at officers. "And then they say it's not spring breakers,it's the 'hundred milers.' Find more great Southern destinations for your next vacation. A 33-year-old man from Illinois was struck by lightning on a pier in Panama City Beach midday Thursday, police said. Officers from the Panama City Beach Police Department closed a two-mile stretch of Front Beach Road as of about 9 p.m. Saturday, as spring break crowds flooded the area, Chief J.R. Talamantez confirmed to MyPanhandle.com. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. But, like most Panama. Officials speaking at Mondays press conference did not address race, though some commenters suggested it had been a factor in the crackdown. For more information, visit www.pcboktoberfest.com. Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. As Talamantez spoke, scores of pistols and rifles were laid out on a table before them. Here are some suggestions to maximize your elevated vacation experience in Panama City Beach. PANAMA CITY BEACH Sariah Hookerhas lived in Panama City Beachfor 12 years. "I feel like (law enforcement)haven't handled it too great because there's been like a lot of people getting shot and places getting vandalized," Vanzuela said. Unlike the lobster tank at your local grocer, these fish are for admiring, not eating, and the sight of the colorful fish gliding over the coral reef decor is mesmerizing. "In the midst of thousands of people running through the boardwalk, we also had customers who were sitting down and enjoying their dinner," Hooker said. Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. "These people dont follow rules or laws. Several bars and restaurants will compete for the title of Best Bloody Mary in the Grand Lagoon.There will also be a panel of secret judges who will decide who will be crowned the Big Tomato and awarded the four-foot, tomato-topped trophy to keep until next years event. Our local law enforcement did the best they could, giving the hand they were dealt and I, for one, commend them for doing so.". Laissez les bon temps rouler in Panama City Beach and participate in the destinations authentic Mardi Gras celebration in Aaron Bessant Park. The most biker-friendly rally in the country, the free four-day Thunder Beach Spring and Fall Motorcycle Rallies will feature 200 vendors and exhibitors, a bike parade, beauty pageants, poker runs, live music, motorcycle stunt shows, tattoo contests, bike shows with category judging and much more. Food Trucks of America is bringing the fourth annual Panama City Beach Food Truck Festival back to Aaron Bessant Park. Travel to the Panhandle is easier than ever now that the modern Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) offers convenient flights from all over the Southeast on Southwest. Regardless, residents can agree on one thing:They never want to experience this nightmare again. When an accident happens in Bay County, it is important to do the following immediately: Remain at the crash scene; In truth, Panama City Beach was relatively unscathed. The Panama City beachline is seen on June 27, 2023. "I remember, well, I was mainly at home, but I passed one time while I was heading to the grocery store and it was very chaotic and truly something I've never seen before,"Campbell said. 'What justice looks like':160 people arrested, 75 guns seized during chaotic PCB spring break weekend, 'A glimpse into the bad past':Panama City Beach businesses shut doors amid spring break chaos. Airport officials tell us the plane crashed south of Highway 388 in Bay County. Learn more in the video above. Police said the 21-year-old was shot in the foot and is expected to recover. We are not going to be tolerant to it, we are not going to permit it.. Car, truck, bicycle, pedestrian, and motorcycle accidents are all a common occurrence, despite improvements in vehicle safety features, road design, bicycle and pedestrian corridors, and traffic signs. Talamantez said crowds were not violent but some revelers were "acting a fool," according to the report. 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. Get out of the hottest heat of the day with a little shopping at the many stores and boutiques at Pier Park. The weekend apparently started on a rowdy note before coming to a head on Sunday afternoon, when a 21-year-old from Alabama was shot in the foot. "Maybe like farther up. He is being held on gun-related charges and the shooting is still under investigation. The chief also referred to an incident in which people had caused absolute destruction inside a Walmart. WJHG. The Bay County Sheriff's Office, Panama . Everybody is welcome at Finns, an elevated surf shack with fantastic grub. Advertisement Panama City Beach police said the shooting stemmed from an altercation at a restaurant along the beach on Front Beach Road. 2023, Bay County Chamber of Commerce, Inc. Panama City Beach Announces List of 2022 Events, www.visitpanamacitybeach.com/events/food-drink-festivals/food-truck-craft-beer-festival/, www.visitpanamacitybeach.com/piratesofthehighseas/, www.schooners.com/events/lobsterfestival.htm, https://grandlagoon.com/events/bloody-mary-music-festival/, Lynn Haven All Star Teams Headed to Dizzy Dean World Series in Southaven, Mississippi, Lynn Haven Sports Complex to Open Pickleball Courts on Saturday, June 24th, GCSCs Presidents and Deans Honor Lists Announced for Spring 2023 Semester, Lynn Haven To Host Annual July 4th Celebration, ServisFirst Bank Panama City Announces Commercial Banking Officer. 369 were here. This is a developing story and we will continue to update you as we learn more. Meanwhile, through June 24, 2023, NOAA statistics show 55 deaths related to rip currents in the U.S. Various officials said this was not a typical vacationing student crowd at all. In 1909 Panama City (named by developer George W. West for Panama City, Panama) merged with St . Stephanie Pagones is a Digital Reporter for FOX Business and Fox News. 7:57 a.m.: A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Panama City, Lynn Haven and Callaway until 8 a.m., according to the National Weather Service, Tallahassee. Over time, you found yourself spending summers at more refined spots, looking for upscale accommodations and experiences to befit your new standing in life and your familys needs. P anama City Beach in Florida is now the deadliest beach in America after three more tourists died swimming in the Gulf of Mexico over the weekend. Attendees can expect live music, contests and lots of delicious Florida lobster. Check in at the luxurious Sheraton Panama City Beach Golf & Spa Resort right on the water at St. Andrews Bay. The man who died was riding a white Ducati Monster northbound on Main Street, Huntington Beach police said in a news release . The incident occurred at about 3:45 p.m. near Tidewater Beach Condominiums, 16819 Front Beach Road. Image: Chris Chamberlain, New Orleans shrimp at Grand Marlin is messy, but worth the effort. Columbus Day weekend will bring a treasure trove of fun-filled adventures to Panama City Beach with the Pirates of the High Seas Fest. Thunder Beach Spring Motorcycle Rally, April 27-May 1 / October 19-23. Meat eaters wont be disappointed either with the pork, lamb and beef dishes seared under an infernal 1800-degree broiler to create the perfect crust while locking in flavors. Copyright 2021 WJHG. "Close it down, close down spring break," Crockett said. TheBeach experienced an onslaughtof what are being dubbed "true criminals" onFriday evening,complete with a shooting, crowdsand even a stampede at the Walmart at the intersection of Front Beach and Middle Beach roads. Updated on: June 28, 2023 / 7:39 PM / CBS News. However, there also was an online site selling Panamaniac VIP Cards offering discounts on cover charges and other bonuses to visitors, and photos on that page showed a white, college-age crowd. 30 food trucks will be serving everything from fall-off-the-bone BBQ and wood-fired pizza to juicy prime rib, spicy Korean food, gooey mac & cheese and so much more. We know the community is frustrated, trust me we are frustrated too, said Chief Talamantez. Six people are in custody in connection with the shooting. Chief Talamantez said they are only able to confirm one shooting incident that happened on Sunday. We should totally set up a satellite StyleBlueprint office here! Image: Chris Chamberlain, Grand Marlins Crab Cake Benedict is the perfect combo of creamy eggs and crunchy, batter-fried crab. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com. For more information, visit www.emeraldcoastcruizin.com. We would like to show you a description here but the site won't allow us. Emerald Coast Cruzin, March 9-12 / November 9-12. The 29th annual Panama City Beach Scottish Festival will take place at Frank Brown Parks festival site and will feature Scottish athletic competitions, Scottish & Irish musical performances (such as bagpipe bands and Irish step dancers), a British car club show, childrens activities and Scottish and Irish food and drink. Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. PCB Mardi Gras and Music Festival, February 11-12. You can even do a little dolphin watching along the way. All rights reserved. All rights reserved. Their signature Tides Restaurant and Lounge offers all three meals in an attractive dining room serving fresh seafood with a vista of the Gulf from where your food came. We want the spring breakers, we want the tourists. And multiple businesses, including a Walmart store on Front Beach Road, shuttered early on Saturday, MyPanhandle.com reported. It came in the midst of a tornado. The three people died in separate "water incidents" in the Gulf of Mexico near three different resorts Saturday afternoon, the Panama City Beach Police Department said in a statement. This festival will be a weekend of craft beer, great food, lawn games, music and fun for the whole family. Step up to the rental shack to begin your private cruise with Lagoon Pontoons. All rights reserved. Florida law enforcement officials say they arrested 78 people from Alabama in Panama City Beach, Fla., over the weekend and confiscated 75 guns as spring break revelry devolved into chaos. Many of the regional and national craft brews on their beer menu cant be found anywhere else within a five-hour drive, so maybe youll discover a new favorite. Music lovers of all ages are invited to make long lasting memories at SandJam Music Festival, presented by Pepsi. These represent criminals, said Panama City Police Chief Mark Smith. Image: Visit Panama City. -- Three college students on spring break who were among seven people wounded . 1:54. March 29, 2015, 4:24 AM. For more information, visit www.floridajeepjam.com. "We implore the public to always heed these warnings and be aware of the grave dangers that can accompany these conditions. In conjunction with the Krewe of Domonique Youxs great Mardi Gras at the Beach Parade, this annual festival features entertainment for the whole family.