Ariel Plasencia
Ariel Plasencia joined FOX 13 in April 2023 and is excited to be reporting in the Sunshine State.
Ariel spent the last four years in Dallas, TX covering news, sports (yes, including the Cowboys), and traffic. From stories on TCU’s run in the College Football Playoff National Championship to issues with the power grid to all things barbecue, Ariel wore many (cowboy) hats during her time in the Lone Star State.
Before Texas, she worked as a reporter and anchor in North Carolina.
A Chicago native, Ariel grew up in cold, windy weather and studied math at Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. She received her master’s degree in journalism at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
When she’s not working, Ariel enjoys spending time outdoors – as close to water as possible! – with her husband, two kids and dog. She also loves cheering on the local sports teams – and her Chicago ones, too! (Go Cubs, Bears, Bulls & Blackhawks!)
The latest from Ariel Plasencia
Gasparilla flotilla route shortened due to weather concerns as law enforcement continues safety preps
Due to expected windy conditions, the Gasparilla pirates decided to shorten their flotilla route this year.
TPA welcomes job seekers at hiring event ahead of spring break rush
Job seekers gathered at Tampa International Airport (TPA) on Wednesday for the airport’s hiring event as it prepares for the upcoming spring break travel rush.
Gasparilla pirates rebuffed as mayor refuses to surrender key to the city: ‘We will never surrender!’
The cannons roared and beads went flying as pirates as Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla (YMKG) made their way through downtown Tampa on Tuesday. But despite the loud demands and pirate escort, Mayor Jane Castor wasn't ready to hand over the key just yet.
Gasparilla 2026: Inside Tampa PD’s Real-Time Crime Center helping keep crowds safe
Officials from more than 30 different agencies will work together in the Tampa Police Department’s Real-Time Crime Center (RTCC) to monitor crowds this Gasparilla season.
Teen killed in Tampa shooting, no arrests made: TPD
A 16-year-old female is dead after a shooting in Tampa early on Thursday morning, according to police.
Port Tampa Bay held first ever Maritime Workforce Expo for local students
Port Tampa Bay held its first ever Maritime Workforce Expo for local students on Wednesday.
Law enforcement to protect Tampa by land, air and sea as pirates pillage and plunder during Gasparilla
Local, state, and federal agencies are preparing for Gasparilla season, which officially starts this weekend with the Children’s Gasparilla Parade.
ZooTampa prepares animals for cold snap with heat lamps and warm shelters
Whether it’s animals at the zoo or plants in the yard, Tampa Bay residents spent Thursday preparing for colder temperatures.
Kingdom of God Global Church seeks return of millions seized in money laundering, forced labor case
The Kingdom of God Global Church filed a petition Dec. 30, seeking to reclaim money and physical assets that were seized after two of the church’s leaders were arrested in August of last year.