Good morning, Florence.

Two friends in Florence split a $713,000 lottery jackpot, according to the South Carolina Education Lottery.

They shared the prize equally after the drawing.

Florence police arrested 59-year-old Landon Brent on Thursday morning after a cybertip led task force agents to a search that confirmed evidence of child sexual abuse material—he now faces 11 counts of third degree sexual exploitation of a minor and is held at the county detention center.

Two men were arrested on charges of attempted murder, criminal conspiracy, possession of a weapon during a violent crime, and aggravated breach of peace after a May 10 shooting near the Red Circle Club in Florence—one suspect was taken Tuesday while the other was arrested Thursday as a local victim was hospitalized.

On May 17th at 10:45 p.m., a hit-and-run crash injured a pedestrian near Walmart on US 52 South Irby Street in Florence—authorities say the suspect vehicle left the scene.

A large plume of Saharan dust is crossing the Atlantic to slow hurricane growth this storm season and is set to reach the Caribbean on June 4 before possibly moving into the Southeast—though a cold front may keep it from South Carolina.

Forecasters say the dust blocks the sunlight that helps storms form and could add bright colors to sunsets.

Smoke from wildfires in Canada is expected to drift into South Carolina today, reaching the Upstate by 5 a.m. and moving to the coast by 5 p.m.—this may mildly affect people with respiratory issues.

A couple in Florence County won $100K in the lottery after a quick pick ticket from On The Go #1 on Alligator Road was verified at the Lottery’s Claims Center in Columbia— they did not fully believe their win until they received a check.

Governor Henry McMaster signed the new act on Thursday, making it a felony to share real or computer-made private images without permission.

The law imposes up to five years of prison for first-time offenders—repeat offenders may face up to ten years.

Pink Connect - Networking Event

6-9 p.m. — SiMT - Southeastern Institute of Manufacturing and Technology — Free entry — Experience empowering connections and vibrant community vibes with amazing vendors and professional headshots.

Country Style Cookoff 2025

10 a.m. - 8 p.m. — 3591 SC-38, Blenheim, SC — Refunds available up to 7 days prior — Experience premier Cookoff action with top Grill Masters and country BBQ fans.

PowerUp Club Summer Camp

9 PM — South Florence High School — Free entry — Enjoy fun games, skits, and community bonding with a summer camp vibe.

Virtual Tour of Senior Living Community

9 AM - 7 PM — Florence Place — Free entry — Discover top-rated amenities and activities for senior living residents.

Grant Writing Workshop: Get Grant Ready

10 AM – 1 PM — SiMT - Southeastern Institute of Manufacturing and Technology — Free registration required — Master the art of grant writing and funding strategies for your nonprofit or business.

Adventurous Scavenger Hunt in Florence

8 a.m.–5 p.m. — Florence County Library System — Ticketed event — Explore hidden gems in Florence while completing exciting challenges with friends and family.