NEWS RELEASE
FCSO Launches Fourth of July Safety Enforcement
Date:Thursday, July 2, 2026
After Two Traffic Fatalities within Minutes Sheriff Staly Encourages Residents to Celebrate Freedom Responsibly as We Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday
BUNNELL, Fla. — As Flagler County residents and visitors prepare to celebrate Independence Day and America’s 250th anniversary, deputies with the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office will be conducting increased patrols throughout the county and waterways to help keep the community safe during the holiday weekend and America’s 250th birthday celebration.
“Tragically, we have already had two traffic fatalities this morning within minutes of each other,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “A pedestrian was struck and killed in Palm Coast and in western Flagler County on West SR 100 a tractor-trailer and a pick-up collided resulting in one fatality and one serious injury. Let’s work together by not driving distracted and not driving aggressively.”
Beginning July 3 and continuing through the Fourth of July weekend, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office will increase visibility and enforcement along major roadways, waterways, beaches, parks, and other high-activity areas. Deputies will focus on aggressive driving, speeding, seatbelt violations, and other dangerous behaviors that put families at risk including reckless and unsafe boating.
In addition to traffic enforcement, deputies will have dedicated DUI enforcement throughout the weekend. The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone planning to celebrate with alcohol to do so responsibly. Drivers are encouraged to use a designated driver, call a rideshare, or arrange a safe ride.
On the water, deputies will also be watching for unsafe boating behavior, including reckless operation, boating under the influence and children without lifejackets.
Residents are reminded that lighting private fireworks are illegal in the City of Palm Coast and Flagler Beach. In the unincorporated areas lighting fireworks are only legal under Florida law on July 4th. Fireworks can cause serious injuries and scare persons with PTSD, persons with autistic needs and pets.
“This Fourth of July is a special one as our nation celebrates 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence,” added Sheriff Rick Staly. “Let’s honor that legacy by celebrating responsibly and thinking of the impact to others and pets that may be nearby. Enjoy the holiday, celebrate our freedoms with your community, and make smart choices so you and do not lose your freedoms by visiting the Green Roof Inn aka the county jail.”
The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office also encourages residents and visitors to do their part to prevent crimes of opportunity while enjoying community events and time with family. While visiting the beach, parks, parade, or official firework events remember to lock vehicle doors, hide valuables, and do not leave items unattended. Always lock your home doors and close your garage door when not in the garage. While attending events, stay aware of your surroundings and report suspicious activity immediately.
Several community events are planned as part of the United Flagler 4th celebration:
- First Friday (Flagler Beach): Friday, July 3, 2026 — 6:00 p.m., Veterans Park (downtown Flagler Beach)
- Stars and Stripes Parade: Saturday, July 4, 2026 — 9:00 a.m., A1A route from 6th Street North to 6th Street South (Flagler Beach)
- Fireworks Over the Runways (Flagler Executive Airport, Palm Coast): Saturday, July 4, 2026 — public entry opens 5:00 p.m.; fireworks at 9:00 p.m.
The FCSO Operations Center in Bunnell, District 2 Office in Palm Coast, and visitation at the Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility will close on Thursday at noon and reopen to regular business on Monday, July 6 at 8 a.m.
Sheriff’s patrol and special operations services will continue through the week and holiday weekend. Flagler County Emergency Communications Center remains open 24/7 for emergency 9-1-1 and non-emergency 386-313-4911 calls.
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