DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – According to officials in Daytona Beach, a man has been arrested following a shooting incident early Wednesday morning, which resulted in the deaths of three individuals.
The suspect, identified as Jerome Anderson, contacted 911 to report that he had shot someone near the intersection of MLK and Park Drive at approximately 6:30 a.m. Several other individuals also made emergency calls after hearing gunshots, as stated in an arrest affidavit.
Upon the arrival of officers, three victims were discovered in separate locations. The first victim, Antoine Melvin, aged 43, was found inside a kitchen area at 613 Park Drive and pronounced dead at the scene.
The second victim, John Burch, aged 65, was found near the roadway in front of 614 Park Drive and also succumbed to their injuries at the scene.
The third victim, Patrick Lassiter, aged 36, was found on South Martin Luther King south of Park Drive and was initially transported to the hospital but later died from the injuries.
Upon their arrival, officers encountered Anderson, who was holding a cell phone in one hand and a gun in the other. According to the arrest affidavit, video surveillance obtained from a nearby convenience store showed Lassiter retreating in the roadway with his hands raised, while Anderson pursued him and opened fire. Anderson fired additional shots at Lassiter while he was on the ground.
A witness informed the police that she had observed Anderson shooting Melvin, Burch, and Lassiter after an altercation that took place the previous night at a convenience store.
The witness recalled Anderson making statements about killing them during the argument. In a photo lineup, the witness positively identified Anderson as the shooter. Another witness disclosed to detectives that Anderson had admitted to shooting Burch.
Anthony Lassiter, the older brother of Patrick Lassiter, provided an exclusive interview with FOX 35 News. He expressed his devastation, describing the incident as senseless and inexplicable.
He fondly remembered his brother as a highly talented individual whom he deeply loved. Anthony expressed his anguish, particularly because the circumstances leading to the tragedy seemed unnecessary.
At the time of the shooting, Anderson had an active warrant for aggravated battery and tampering with a witness, according to the police.
He has been arrested and is facing three charges of first-degree premeditated murder, as well as possession of a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.
