DELAND, Fla. — Detectives with the Volusia Sheriff's Office are investigating a fatal shooting that occurred at a residential property in DeLand on Tuesday evening. The incident began as a routine call for service regarding a trespassing complaint but escalated into violence resulting in one death.
Trespassing Complaint Escalates to Violence
According to the Volusia Sheriff's Office, deputies and DeLand police officers responded to 127 N. Boulevard Court around 10:47 p.m. Upon arrival, law enforcement found a man lying in the driveway with multiple gunshot wounds; he was pronounced dead at the scene.
The initial caller, who identified himself as living in a camper on the property, told dispatch that he had shot an intruder. The sheriff's office reported that the victim used to stay off and on at the address but was currently barred from staying there due to prior disputes, as this newspaper reported in Man Hospitalized After Shooting Following Florida Murder.
Details of the Confrontation
The investigation revealed that the conflict began when the victim was found asleep in the laundry room of the home. This discovery led to an argument, which prompted the initial trespassing call to law enforcement, as this newspaper reported in Man Hospitalized After Shooting Following Florida Murder.
During questioning, the shooter told investigators that the man advanced on him despite warnings to leave or face being shot. The homeowner stated he fired several rounds after these verbal exchanges and physical advances occurred, The Hill reported.
Ongoing Investigation
The Volusia Sheriff's Office has launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Detectives are currently reviewing evidence to determine if the use of deadly force was justified under Florida law, particularly given the history between the parties and the prior barring order against the victim.
