Crime
Video shows moments shots fired near Newburgh Free Academy
On Tuesday, a lockout was implemented at Newburgh Free Academy (NFA) after reports of gunfire in the vicinity of the school, according to a statement issued by the district.
The district confirmed that the lockout, initiated as a precautionary measure, lasted approximately 10 minutes.
The incident occurred near the school around dismissal time.
While initial reports indicate shots were fired following an assault, both incidents were partially captured on cell phone video.
Fortunately, there were no reported injuries related to the shooting or the subsequent lockout.
In a message to parents and the community, the district expressed gratitude for the swift response from local law enforcement and emphasized its ongoing collaboration with authorities.
“The district is thankful for the quick response of local law enforcement and will continue to collaborate with them to assist in their investigation. The investigation is still ongoing, and no further information will be released at this time.”
The quick implementation of the lockout ensured the safety of students and staff while authorities assessed the situation.
The lockout was lifted after it was deemed safe, and normal operations resumed.
The district and law enforcement agencies continue to work together to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
As of now, no further details have been released. Community members are urged to report any relevant information to assist in the ongoing investigation.
This incident underscores the importance of vigilance and the value of effective coordination between schools and local law enforcement to ensure safety in the face of potential threats.
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.