LEESBURG, Fla. — An 18-year-old from Mount Dora surrendered to law enforcement Friday following a deadly shooting in Leesburg. Kameryn Pickard was transported to the Leesburg Police Department by his father and taken into custody in connection with the death of 20-year-old Dontae Copeland, who was shot outside a residence in the Carver Heights neighborhood.
Witnesses heard a series of gunshots, leading to a rapid police response on Tuskegee Street. One neighbor described the scene, stating, “I heard some scuffling, then pop, pop, pop.” They expressed regret over the tragic incident, emphasizing the heartbreaking nature of the event.
Arista Russell, a nearby resident, contacted the authorities after a group of children, who had witnessed the shooting, urged her to call 911. “I was shocked when I realized those weren’t fireworks; they were gunshots,” she recalled. After the shooting, she found Copeland’s girlfriend in distress, pleading for help.
Emergency medical services arrived to provide immediate care, transporting Copeland to UF Health Leesburg Hospital, where he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. Russell reflected on the tragedy, saying, “I’ve seen death before, but never something like this. It’s just really sad.”
Information gathered suggests the altercation began when Pickard confronted Copeland at the home. Now facing a charge of premeditated murder, Pickard is being held without bond at the Lake County Jail.
Russell emphasized the need for individuals to consider the consequences of their actions. “Think before you take matters into your hands,” she advised. “You could end up in prison or worse.”
Authorities are encouraging anyone with relevant information about the incident to contact the Leesburg Police Department or Crimeline, ensuring anonymity for callers who may be eligible for rewards. The police department indicated that further updates will be released as the investigation continues.