Carla Bayron
Carla Bayron is a general assignment reporter for FOX 13 covering Polk County. She joined the team in September 2023.
Carla is a Sunshine State native who grew up in Palm Harbor. She attended Palm Harbor University High School and graduated Magna Cum Laude from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Sciences Degree in Telecommunications.
After nearly six years reporting throughout the state of Michigan, she's thrilled to be back in the Tampa Bay area and closer to family. She said she will miss the Fall season, the beaches along Lake Michigan, and yes, even the snow, but only around Christmas time!
Throughout her career, Carla has covered numerous high-profile events, including the mass shooting at Oxford High School in Oakland County, MI, the officer-involved shooting death of Patrick Lyoya in Grand Rapids, President Trump's 2016 campaign rally in Ocala, Florida and white nationalist Richard Spencer's speaking appearance at the University of Florida.
In her spare time, Carla enjoys creative writing, playing video games with her husband, and cheering on the Florida Gators and Tampa Bay sports teams. She also loves traveling, eating, and exploring the outdoors.
The latest from Carla Bayron
'A game changer': UF researchers studying bamboo as alternative crop for struggling citrus growers
Oranges are a huge part of Florida’s identity and economy, but the industry has been in decline due to citrus greening disease.
Sonny’s BBQ fire destroys beloved Bartow restaurant
A fire broke out at Sonny’s BBQ in Bartow early Wednesday morning and destroyed the restaurant.
Lakeland pioneers AI sensor technology to fix crumbling roadways
The city of Lakeland will soon use artificial intelligence technology to tackle the pothole problem on our roadways.
Polk County Sheriff's Office opens for sixth district office in fast growing NE Polk County
The Polk County Sheriff's Office is opening another district office — this time in the northeast part of the county.
Business donates jewelry to Lakeland teen recovering in hospital after being shot by stepfather
The owners of a jewelry business are showing their support and love to the victims of a murder suicide, including a 13-year-old who suffered gunshot wounds.
Hillsborough working with golf course on solutions after assisted living facility inundated with golf balls
A 55+ senior community in southern Hillsborough County being inundated with golf balls isn't the only one.
Lakeland family forced to euthanize sick puppy adopted from Polk County Animal Control Shelter
A Lakeland family is devastated after they said they were forced to euthanize their sick puppy before Christmas.
Sun City Center man concerned about damaged homes, safety from golf balls flying over netting
Sal Perniciaro says he moved to the 55+ community Fairway Pointe in Sun City Center to retire in peace and quiet, but he can't because he's constantly worrying about golf balls flying around and over the net from the golf course that butts up to his backyard.
Florida Southern College's historic 'President's Residence' to be relocated to preserve and honor its legacy
The President's Residence which was built back in 1938 near the end of the Great Depression has been in need of major repairs for years.
Lake Alfred store known for Amish foods, holiday LED sculptures unlikely to return in 2027
Heavenly Honey Amish Warehouse is best known for spreading holiday cheer and selling delicious Amish foods, but next year may be its last.