Northview Chiefs Name Former Hurricane Doug Vickery As Head Coach
March 25, 2025
The Northview Chiefs have named Doug Vickery and their next head football coach. The longtime Flomaton High School head football coach announced his retirement from the Flomaton Hurricanes last December.
“I’ve going from one rival to another, and it’s such a blessing,” Vickery told NorthEscambia.com Tuesday afternoon. “God just opened up some doors for me.”
“The Chiefs are a great team with great kids, great support and a great coaching staff already in place,” he said. “I’m excited.”
Vickery had been the head coach for the Hurricanes for 19 years. During those 19 years, Vickery led the Hurricanes to their first-ever state championship in 2018, and there have been five quarterfinal appearances. Three of his boys played football for Flomaton during his tenure where he had a record of 130-82.
Former Northview head coach Wes Summerford was named the new head football coach for the West Florida High School Jaguars in February.
Above and below: Flomaton head coach Doug Vickery. NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge. Pictured bottom two photos: The Flomaton Hurricanes and Vickery celebrate their first ever state championship. Trent Penny/Anniston Star for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Updated: Two Injured In Highway 29, West Roberts Road Crash
March 25, 2025
There were multiple injuries in a three-vehicle crash on Monday night at the intersection of Highway 29 and Roberts Road.
The Florida Highway Patrol said sedan driven by a 53-year-old Pensacola man was traveling south on Highway 29 in the southbound lane when he failed to observe a red traffic signal and stopped traffic directly ahead. His car rear-ended a pickup truck driven by a 30-year-old Eight Mile, Alabama, man. Due to the force of the impact, the Eight Mile man’s truck was was forced into the rear of another car driven by a 48-year-old Pensacola man.
Two people, the driver of the at-fault sedan and a passenger in the pickup truck, sustained minor injuries in the 7:50 p.m. crash.
NorthEscambia.com photos by Kristi Barbour, click to enlarge.
Tate High Wind Ensemble Achieves Straight Superior Ratings
March 25, 2025
The Tate High School Wind Ensemble achieved a straight superior rating at the District 1 Music Performance Assessment (MPA) earlier this month at Fort Walton Beach High School based upon their dedication, musicianship, and hard work of the students and directors. A member of the Tate color guard also earned a superior rating.
As a result of their success, the wind ensemble will perform at the State Concert Band Evaluation on April 29, 2025,at Northwest Florida State College in Niceville. Performance times and additional details will be announced as soon as they become available.
In addition to this success, six Tate High School students have qualified to perform at the Florida Bandmasters Association (FBA) State Solo Evaluation in Tallahassee on Saturday, March 29, at Leon High School. These talented musicians earned a superior rating on a Grade 5 or higher solo at the district evaluation.
Those band students are:
- Carter Hayden
- Mason Soto
- Kendra McDonald
- Gracie Ferlo
- Jax Hardnack
- Jaren Ridgon
In addition, Tate High color guard member Brooklyn Summerlin will perform at the Florida Bandmasters Association (FBA) Solo Evaluation.
The Tate High School Jazz Ensembles will also take the stage at Troy University’s Mic Check Conference April 24-25. This event is a significant opportunity for students to showcase their talents with top ensembles from across the region. Students will also have the chance to participate in master classes led by professional performers and theTroy University jazz faculty.
“The Tate High School Music Department extends its gratitude to the students, parents, and supporters who continue to champion the arts and music education,” Tate High Director of Bands Ronald Gray, Jr. said.
Former Escambia Academy Headmaster, Head Coach Hugh Fountain Passes Away
March 25, 2025
Former Escambia Academy headmaster and head football coach, and current W.S. Neal coach Hugh Fountain passed away Monday at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston.
Fountain was a native of East Brewton and coached at Escambia Academy from 2012-2021 before moving to W.S. Neal from 2022-2025. He also coached at Charles Henderson High School in Troy from 1996 to 2011 after coaching for a year at Evergreen in 1988 followed by seven years at W.S. Neal.
Fountain led the EA Cougars to AISA state championships in 2014 and 2017.
He was the first coach in Alabama to be the winningest coach at three different schools, a milestone he obtained after his 62 wins at W.S. Neal, along with 106 wins at Charles Henderson and 94 win at Escambia Academy.
Pictured top: Hugh Fountain at Escambia Academy, courtesy WEAR 3 for NorthEscambia.com. Pictured below: Hugh Fountain at W.S. Neal.
ECSO Presents Semi-Annual Service Awards
March 25, 2025
The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office presented the following awards at their recent semi-annual ceremony:
Investigator John Little was presented with the “Officer of the Year” award. His exceptional dedication and expertise, brings 15 years of homicide investigation experience to the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. He has modernized investigative processes by standardizing search warrant templates, implementing advanced technology, and serving as a trusted advisor on critical incidents. His contributions have significantly enhanced the agency’s capabilities and improved community safety.
For a photo gallery, click here.
Joshua Kinder was presented with the “Employee of the Year” award. He received this award for his outstanding contributions to modernizing the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office’s logistics, including a name change, enhanced inventory tracking, and improved safety measures. His efforts in streamlining procurement and reducing costs have significantly benefited deputies and staff. His proactive approach and dedication to efficiency have set a new standard for excellence within the department.
Dispatch Aide Karen Jones was presented with the “Life Saving Medal”. She was awarded for her exceptional composure and swift actions in July of 2024, which directly resulted in the rescue of a vulnerable child from a body of water. Her use of 911 technology, situational awareness, and effective coordination of resources were crucial in saving the child’s life.
Lacey Oden was presented with the “Achievement” award. She was awarded for her exceptional commitment and discipline in earning a Doctor of Forensic Science degree from Oklahoma State University on December 14, 2024. Dr. Lacey Oden’s achievement brings valuable expertise to the agency and sets a high standard for continuous improvement.
Chief Tommi Lyter, Chief Andrew Hobbs, Ronnie Rivera, and Delarian Wiggins were presented with the “Commendation Medal”. They were awarded for their instrumental dedication to the Escambia County Sheriff’s Male Blazer Academy, which has positively impacted over 100 young men since 2021. Their mentorship and guidance have fostered essential life skills and in 2022 earned the program Florida’s Crime Prevention Program of the Year award.
Ted Chamberlain was presented with the “Civilian Service Medal”. He was awarded for his exceptional volunteer work since 2023, dedicating his expertise to reviewing and solving cold cases. His efforts directly led to the arrest of a suspect in one case and significantly advanced another, demonstrating a profound commitment to justice.
Investigations-Robbery/Homicide (Lieutenant Jayson Barnes, Lieutenant Kevin Coxwell, Sergeant Rene Reguindin, Sergeant Alex Vinson, Sergeant Shawn Vestal, Investigator John Little, Investigator Jared Girard, Investigator Ashley Wallace, Investigator Joshua Timo, Investigator Brittany Crawford, Investigator Andrew Kelley, Nicole Stout, Cynthia Joyner, and Patricia Patterson) were presented with the “Unit Citation” award. In 2024, Escambia County, Florida, saw 35 homicide cases with 39 victims. Despite the challenges, Robbery/Homicide achieved an 86% solve rate, surpassing the national average of 57.8%, by solving 30 cases. This underscores their significant contribution to justice and community safety.
Patrol/E-North (Lieutenant Brian Shorette, Sergeant Grant McMullen, Sergeant Peter Kamau, Deputy John Stuckey, Deputy Jose Oliveras, Deputy David Velez, Deputy David Allen, and Deputy Zachary Gither) were presented with the “Unit Citation” award. The E-North Unit is awarded a Unit Citation for their exceptional investigative skills and dedication. On July 23, 2024, they swiftly transitioned a missing person report into a homicide investigation within six hours, resulting in the suspect’s arrest. Their relentless pursuit of justice and professionalism are commendable.
Patrol/F-South (Lieutenant Michael Hoyland, Sergeant Curtis Cephas, Sergeant Joseph Scapecchi, Deputy Larry Richardson, Deputy David Collier, Deputy Brian Long, Deputy Keytana Smith, Deputy Jeremiah Jarratt, Deputy Ryan Bolton, and Deputy Shanna Secchiari) were presented with the “Unit Citation” award. The Patrol/F-South Unit is awarded a Unit Citation for their exceptional teamwork and professionalism in responding to a stolen vehicle pursuit and a shooting on June 24, 2024. Their swift and effective actions, despite split resources and challenging circumstances, exemplify courage and dedication to community protection.
Information Technology (Bobby Echols, Jackie Archer, Fermin Banawa, Charmaine Fountain, Murray Shaw, Aron Byrd, Charles Cripple, James Davis, Kevin Fralick, Bobby Govoni, Peter Laser, Rodney McKinney, and Patrick Moss) were presented with the “Unit Citation” award. The Information Technology Unit is awarded a Unit Citation for their outstanding support in facilitating seamless departmental transitions. Their efficient, professional, and enthusiastic assistance transforms potentially stressful processes into a positive experience.
The Real Time Crime Center (Lt. Brandon Beech, Sgt. Jason Comans, Sgt. Burt Craft, Brittany Smith, Cathleen Mills, Mary Bocchino, Gracie Russell, Katelyn Clairain, Sherita Stanley, and Julie McKee (Pensacola Police Department)) were presented with the “Unit Citation” award. The Real Time Crime Center is awarded a Unit Citation, and Julie McKee from PPD is awarded a Civilian Service Medal, for their outstanding dedication in establishing a fully operational Real Time Crime Center. Their collaborative efforts and rapid implementation of advanced technology have positioned the agency at the forefront of crime prevention and response.
The Logistics Unit (John Weaver, Joshua Kinder, Thomas Powell, Terrance Raymond, and Joshua Joyner) were presented with the “Unit Citation” award. The Logistics Unit is awarded a Unit Citation for their impeccable inventory management in the 2023/2024 fiscal year and their successful modernization efforts, including a name change, enhanced mail processing, and streamlined uniform purchasing. Their dedication to efficiency and cost savings has greatly benefited the agency.
Internal Affairs (Lieutenant Robert Pollock, Sergeant Gregory NeSmith, Sergeant Melissa Scruggs, Sergeant Shawn Vestal, Sergeant Merle Burkhart, Heather Mohan, and Darby Sellers) were presented with the “Unit Citation” award. The Internal Affairs Unit is awarded a Unit Citation for their exemplary performance in 2024, efficiently processing numerous complaints, background checks, and polygraph exams, thereby upholding the agency’s professional standards. Their diligent investigations and administrative support have been vital to maintaining accountability and integrity.
Years of Service Awards – We extend our sincere appreciation to the following individuals for their dedicated years of service and unwavering commitment to the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office.
20 Years of Service – Lt. Robert Nelson, Lt. Robert Pollock, Lt. Jeffrey Swanson, Deputy Patrick Pharr, and Deputy Bobby Small
25 Years of Service – Deputy Melissa Sterling, Deputy Natasha West, and Deputy Brenda Matthews
30 Years of Service – Belinda Greathouse
40 Years of Service – Tammy Anthony
Three Month Stacey Road Closure Scheduled To Begin Today
March 25, 2025
A three-month closure of Stacey Road is scheduled to being today for a drainage project.
Stacey Road between West Quintette and Coweta roads will be closed to through traffic starting Tuesday, March 25 while crews install a storm drain system and perform road improvements.
Traffic will be detoured along Highway 95A and Coweta Road. Motorists should use extra caution and follow posted signs when traveling along the detour. The road is expected to reopen by Tuesday, July 1.
Residents, pedestrians, local traffic and emergency vehicles will have access to properties within the work area at all times; however, there may be short periods when a driveway or entrance may be blocked temporarily as equipment and materials are moved during construction.
The $2.5 million project was awarded to Site And Utility, LLC last November. The purpose of this project is to replace the undersized drainage infrastructure from the northwest corner of Stacey Road and Quintette Road to the outfall approximately three quarters of a mile south on the east side of Stacey Road.
The project will replace the existing system with approximately 350 feet of 4-foot x 10-foot box culvert, and will include the installation of 100 feet of a 10-foot-wide paved concrete ditch upstream of the existing system,
reconstruction of three quarters of a mile of Stacey Road and the milling and resurfacing of the intersection of Stacey Road and Quintette Road, and the regrading of the existing downstream ditch.
The project is being funded by American Rescue Plan funding.
Fleeing Suspect Crashes Into House In Atmore
March 25, 2025
A suspect fleeing from a traffice top crashed into a house in Atmore March 14, according to information released Monday by the Atmore Police Department.
Atmore police responded to a hit-and-run at Spudds convenience store on Highway 21 where witnesses reported a red Ford Mustang fleeing the scene. Officers later spotted the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop near Medical Park Drive and Church Street. The driver later identified as 24-year-old Eric Reed, of Daphne, Alabama, sped off at speeds reaching 80 mph on Church Street, according to police. Police said they did not pursue the vehicle due to danger to the public.
A short time , a citizen reported a red vehicle crashing into a residence at Church Street and Carney Street, with suspects fleeing on foot. Officers established a perimeter and later apprehended Reed and a a suspected accomplice, 15-year-old Mar’Kavion Dixon of Atmore, after they were picked up by a third suspect.
Police said a search of the vehicles and a black bag in Reed’s possession revealed a stolen firearm from Meridian, MS, several hundred grams of marijuana, an edible cannabis gummy bear, and drug packaging materials.
Reed faces multiple charges, including attempting to elude, drug possession, criminal mischief, and leaving the scene of an accident. Dixon was charged with receiving stolen property and hindering prosecution. The third suspect, a juvenile, will be charged in juvenile court.
Both Reed and Dixon were transported to the Escambia County Detention Center.
Reader submitted photo for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
Patchy Fog Overnight
March 25, 2025
Here is your official North Escambia area forecast:
Tuesday Night: Patchy fog after 1am. Otherwise, mostly clear, with a low around 55. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Wednesday: Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 80. North wind 5 to 10 mph.
Wednesday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 52. North wind around 5 mph.
Thursday: Sunny, with a high near 77. East wind 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday Night: Partly cloudy, with a low around 53. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Friday: Partly sunny, with a high near 77. Southeast wind 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Friday Night: Mostly cloudy, with a low around 60.
Saturday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 76.
Saturday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63.
Sunday: A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 79.
Sunday Night: A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63.
Monday: A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 79.
Fire Heavily Damages Mobile Home On Pine Barren Road
March 24, 2025
Fire heavily damaged a mobile home Monday afternoon near Bogia.
No one was home at the time of the fire, which was reported about 1:35 p.m. in the 1600 block of South Pine Barren Road, about a mile from West Bogia Road. There were no injuries.
The exact cause of the fire remains under investigation.
The Molino, McDavid, Century, Walnut Hill and Cantonment stations of Escambia County Fire Rescue responded, along with Escambia County EMS.
NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.
Semi Hydroplanes Across I-10 Median, Causes Crash That Injured Three
March 24, 2025
A multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 10 left three drivers injured Monday morning, according to the Florida Highway Patrol.
The crash happened at mile marker 7.5, between the Highway 29 and Pine Forest Road exits, about 8 a.m.
FHP said a tractor-trailer driven by a 55-year-old Geneva, Alabama, woman was traveling eastbound when it hydroplaned, crossed the median, and collided with two westbound vehicles—a semi-truck driven by a 39-year-old Kissimmee man and a sedan driven by a 25-year-old Fairhope man. The sedan left the roadway and overturned.
The 39-year-old Kissimmee man and 25-year-old Fairhope man were both transported to the hospital with critical injuries. The 55-year-old Geneva woman was transported to the hospital with serious injuries.
The crash closed I-10 westbound for nearly three hours.
Photos for NorthEscambia.com, click to enlarge.
