Stoney Mathis, a 28-year-old resident of Wright, Florida, tragically lost his life on June 7, 2021. Mathis was found dead on a wooded traffic island in front of his home, having suffered multiple gunshot wounds. The Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office (OCSO) responded to reports of shots fired on Bennett's End near Willow Bend Boulevard around 2 p.m. on the day of the incident.
Witnesses reported seeing two vehicles in the vicinity before the shooting: a light silver/gray Kia Soul with two Black men inside and a dark gray sedan. The OCSO has been actively investigating the case, seeking information from the public to identify the individuals involved.
In the aftermath of the shooting, the OCSO announced that they were seeking Aaron Dwayne Dawson for questioning in connection with the murder of Stoney Mathis. The investigation has been ongoing, with authorities offering a reward of up to $8,000 for information leading to the identification and apprehension of the shooter or shooters responsible for Mathis's death. The reward is a combined effort from the Florida Sheriff's Association Criminal Apprehension Assistance Program (FSA CAAP) and Emerald Coast Crime Stoppers, emphasizing the community's commitment to solving this case.
Despite the efforts of law enforcement and the community, the case remains unresolved. The OCSO continues to encourage anyone with information to come forward, highlighting the importance of community involvement in bringing justice for Stoney Mathis. The investigation has not yet led to any arrests, and the search for suspects and further evidence is ongoing. The tragic loss of Stoney Mathis has left a significant impact on his family and the Wright community, who continue to seek closure and justice for his untimely death.
