George C. Whealton, Jr., 87, Vero Beach

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 wounded in late Monday shooting; deputies investigating

GIFFORD — Two people suffered non-life threatening injuries following a double shooting late Monday, Indian River County sheriff's deputies reported. It was the second reported shooting to take place in Indian River County over the Labor Day weekend. Both incidents are not connected, sheriff's spokesperson Sgt. Kevin Jaworski said. Details on the motive in Monday's shooting were not immediately available. The individuals - a 33-year-old man and a teen believed to be age 17 or 18 - have since been released from the hospital, according to sheriff's officials and fire rescue. Deputies were combing through evidence and speaking with witnesses to identify a possible suspect. Deputies responded to reports of gunfire shortly after 9 p.m. in the 4500 block of ...

Man killed in overnight shooting in Gifford

GIFFORD — A man in his early 20s was killed after being struck by gunfire overnight, authorities said. Indian River County sheriff's officials said there was no known danger to the public but are investigating the case as a homicide. "Currently, detectives are working all leads," sheriff's officials said in a statement. "There is no suspect information that can be presently shared." Indian River County deputies responded to reports of the shooting about 4:20 a.m. Thursday in the 4500 block of 33rd Avenue in Gifford, west of U.S. 1, reports show. The injured man was flown to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital in Fort Pierce, Indian River County Fire Rescue Battalion Chief Steve Greer said. Doctors later pronounced the man dead, ...