Crime
23-year-old Leviticus Burns Killed in Shooting During Gathering at Rental Property in DeKalb County
A second victim, a 21-year-old man, was transported to a hospital with a gunshot wound but later succumbed to his injuries.
DeKalb County, GA — A gathering at a home in Panthersville early Saturday morning turned deadly, leaving two people fatally shot, according to DeKalb County Police.
Police responded to reports of gunfire at a house on Brandenberry Drive. Upon arrival, officers discovered 23-year-old Leviticus Burns deceased at the scene.
A second victim, a 21-year-old man, was transported to a hospital with a gunshot wound but later succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities stated that the home, believed to be a short-term rental property, was being used for the gathering.
According to the property owner, she received a call around 2 a.m. from someone at the house expressing concerns about feeling unsafe.
Neighbors also reported hearing gunshots and subsequently contacted the property owner. Witnesses noted that several vehicles fled the scene following the gunfire.
Police have not yet determined how many people were present during the gathering and have not released any details regarding potential suspects.
Investigators are working to gather more information about the incident and the circumstances that led to the fatal shootings.
The DeKalb County Police Department urges anyone with information to contact their office or Crime Stoppers to assist in solving the case.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office (PBSO) is investigating a series of shootings that occurred Wednesday night in Pahokee, culminating in a deputy-involved shooting.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office, and PBSO’s Violent Crimes Division are conducting parallel and joint reviews of the incident.
According to authorities, the violence began on Wednesday, February 25, at approximately 10:12 p.m., when 44-year-old Charles McCloud Jr. allegedly initiated a series of shootings at multiple locations throughout Pahokee over a roughly 40-minute span.
First Shooting – 171 Booker Place (10:12 p.m.)
McCloud allegedly shot two adult males at a residence located at 171 Booker Place.
Both victims were pronounced deceased at the scene.
Second Shooting – 8700 Block of Doveland Drive
Shortly afterward, multiple gunshots were reported in the 8700 block of Doveland Drive.
Although several rounds were fired, authorities confirmed that no individuals were struck during this incident.
Third Shooting – 750 Belle Glade Road
The third shooting occurred at a convenience store located at 750 Belle Glade Road.
An adult male was shot during this incident and transported for medical treatment. Officials report the victim is expected to survive.
While responding to the reported gunfire on Doveland Drive and conducting a preliminary investigation, a PBSO deputy was securing the area with crime scene tape when McCloud allegedly drove a black GMC SUV directly at the deputy.
Authorities state that McCloud struck the deputy with the vehicle, pushing him approximately 40 feet. After exiting the SUV armed with a firearm, McCloud allegedly attempted to shoot the injured deputy.
In response, the deputy discharged his service weapon, striking McCloud. A second PBSO deputy also discharged his firearm during the encounter. McCloud was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The injured deputy sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving treatment at St. Mary’s Medical Center.
According to PBSO, Charles McCloud Jr. had an extensive criminal history, including prior charges for Riot, Resisting an Officer with Violence, Armed Robbery, Aggravated Battery with a Deadly Weapon, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Narcotics Equipment/Possession, and Escape or Attempted Escape from a county facility.
In accordance with standard agency policy, the deputy involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
The FDLE, the Palm Beach County State Attorney’s Office, and PBSO’s Violent Crimes Division continue to actively investigate all aspects of the shootings, including the deputy-involved use of force.
Additional information will be released as it becomes available.