Eliezer Ortiz-Rivera, 36, Vero Beach

No injuries after plane makes emergency landing in field in Sebastian

SEBASTIAN — Two people escaped injury after a Piper PA-28 plane experienced a power issue, leading the pilot to make an emergency landing in a field Tuesday morning, officials said. The single-engine aircraft took off from the Sebastian Municipal Airport, Police Capt. Tim Wood said. The plane was traveling south near the Vero Beach Regional Airport when it experienced a power issue about 9:30 a.m., according to the Federal Aviation Administration. The pilot headed back north and made a soft landing in an undeveloped area located on a private property just west of the railroad tracks, not far from 99th Street and U.S. 1, Wood said. Further details on the individuals aboard the aircraft were not immediately available. The FAA ...

Together: Gifford MLK parade, program brings unity, music, performances

GIFFORD — The spirit of solidarity flourished at the Martin Luther King Jr. Parade along 45th Street, where residents gathered to see creative floats, marching band performances and banners showing King's image along with some of his famous quotes. A program held afterwards beneath the gray skies featured poetry, Christian rap, mime showcase, dances and singing. "I think it's very important for our students and community to continue the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. We cannot allow his dreams to die after he was assassinated," said Curtis Webb, director of youth programs at the Gifford Youth Achievement Center - one of many organizations to march in this year's parade. "He fought for the rights of all people so we ...

2 residents, 4 dogs displaced after Sebastian house fire

SEBASTIAN — Two residents, along with their four dogs, were displaced after a house fire that ignited overnight, fire rescue crews said. No injuries were reported in the incident, Indian River County Assistant Fire Chief Bill Herrington said. Red Cross South Florida Region assisted the residents - two adults - and pets with temporary living accommodations. Firefighters were called to the blaze about 3:30 a.m. Monday at the residence along 50th Avenue in Sebastian. Herrington said the flames originated in a bedroom and that the home sustained extensive smoke damage. "There was fire damage to a couple of rooms," Herrington said. Herrington said fire crews knocked down the flames within 16 minutes. The residence is uninhabitable for now, he said. ...