Isaias Batters Southeast, Causing Death and Chaos

Severe storm damage swept across the Southeast as Hurricane Isaias left over 438,000 residents without power in Florida. In Mobile, Alabama, officials confirmed one storm-related death. Fox Weather meteorologist Michael Estime reported on the cleanup hazards in the area. Meanwhile, Rosemary Beach resident Kristin Scheurer described local flooding and downed power lines due to the severe weather event.

Amidst the chaos, at least three individuals were arrested in Florida for allegedly exploiting the aftermath of Hurricane Isaias to commit theft. Escambia County Sheriff Chip Simmons shared a video on Facebook detailing the arrest of Dustin Kelley and Amanda Carr, who were accused of stealing a car after pretending to need help charging a phone. They approached a woman, claiming their phone had died, and persuaded her to let them use her car to charge it. Kelley and Carr then drove off with the vehicle. A deputy nearby pursued the car, leading to a crash, but no serious injuries occurred.

These arrests highlight law enforcement’s active presence during the storm’s aftermath. Kelley faced charges of larceny, fleeing or eluding police, and possession of marijuana, while Carr was charged with larceny. Another incident involved Van Gary Spikes Jr., who attempted to break into a 24-hour store during a power outage by smashing a window. Thanks to the vigilance of local deputies, Spikes Jr. was promptly stopped.

Spikes Jr. was charged with possession of burgling tools, wearing a mask during a felony, attempted burglary of an unoccupied structure during a state of emergency, loitering, prowling, and criminal mischief causing damage of $200 or more. The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office maintained a robust presence, successfully preventing further criminal activity during the storm’s aftermath.