Karli Elliott, a 30-year-old woman from Daytona Beach, Florida, tragically lost her life on August 16, 2022. Karli, who was born on December 20, 1991, in Gastonia, North Carolina, had moved to the Daytona Beach area in 1993. She was known for her passion for art and her love for drawing. On the day of her death, Karli was involved in a fatal shooting incident that occurred around 11:56 a.m. on Glenview Boulevard in Daytona Beach.
The incident was reported to have stemmed from a possible love triangle.
According to police reports, Karli Elliott was at a 7-Eleven convenience store on Oleander Avenue, where she got into an argument with her boyfriend. After leaving the store, she called Chad Keene, a 37-year-old man, from outside. Her boyfriend followed her as she walked on Glenview Boulevard and witnessed Keene pull out a firearm and shoot Karli. She was taken to Halifax Health Medical Center, where she succumbed to her injuries. The police found a shell casing at the scene that matched other ammunition later discovered in Keene's apartment. A witness who was on the phone with Keene at the time of the shooting heard a gunshot and a woman exclaim, "You shot me."
Chad Keene was arrested shortly after the incident and charged with second-degree murder and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He was taken into custody without bail and later sentenced to life in prison. During the investigation, Keene admitted to being at the scene but denied being the shooter, claiming it was an accident. However, the evidence, including witness testimonies and matching ammunition, led to his conviction. The case highlighted the tragic consequences of domestic disputes and the impact of gun violence.
The investigation into Karli Elliott's death also led to the lockdown of three nearby schools as a precautionary measure. The Daytona Beach Police Department actively pursued the case, ensuring that justice was served for Karli and her family. The community mourned the loss of a young woman whose life was cut short by a senseless act of violence.