ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA, Fla. — A tragic incident unfolded Monday afternoon when an off-duty police officer was fatally shot at a local gas station, prompting a swift investigation by law enforcement. The Volusia Sheriff’s Office reported the shooting occurred at the Circle K gas station around 4:08 p.m., where the victim, identified as David Jewell, was pronounced dead at the scene.
In the aftermath, Ocean Shore Boulevard was closed between Briggs and San Jose Drive as authorities worked to piece together the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Residents and travelers were advised to steer clear of the area while the investigation continued.
Sheriff Mike Chitwood held a press conference later that evening, revealing that Jewell was an officer with the Edgewater Police Department who had only recently been sworn in in June 2023. Jewell, who previously worked at the Volusia Sheriff’s Office communication center, was off-duty and lived near the gas station where the incident took place.
Chitwood disclosed that local clerk Eduardo Machado, the suspected shooter, was familiar with Jewell and aware that he was a police officer. Surveillance footage captured Machado exiting the store just before Jewell arrived. The video showed Machado walking to a white Kia and returning with a jacket. He then approached Jewell from behind, firing multiple shots into his head.
The harrowing video further depicted Machado shooting Jewell several times as he lay on the ground. Following the shooting, Machado was seen changing his shirt and placing the jacket back inside the Kia.
“This was an intentional act, and we’re still trying to determine the motive,” Chitwood stated. “What happened today was an outright assassination.” Another store clerk, who was inside during the shooting, recounted hearing gunfire and encountered Machado as they exited from the restroom.
Jewell’s commitment to serving the community has drawn heartfelt reactions. Acting Chief of Police Charles Geiger of the Edgewater Police Department praised Jewell, describing him as “one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet,” and lamented the loss of a promising officer.
As the investigation proceeds, questions linger about the reasons behind this senseless violence. Community members mourn the loss of a dedicated public servant while law enforcement works diligently to bring justice and clarity to those affected by this tragic event.