Frank Shelton Strahorn, a 34-year-old resident of Sebastian, Florida, tragically lost his life on June 19, 2020. Frank, originally from Clinton, Maryland, had moved to Sebastian in 2011 after being honorably discharged from the U.S. Marine Corps. Known for his gentle yet strong demeanor, Frank was deeply involved in his community, particularly through his service at Lakeside Fellowship Church in Vero Beach, Florida.
His untimely death left a profound impact on his family, friends, and the local community.
On the day of his death, Frank was working as a waiter at Giuseppe's Pizzeria in Sebastian. The incident that led to his death was a shocking act of violence perpetrated by William Carrodus, a 56-year-old pizza delivery driver for the same restaurant. Carrodus, who had a history of conflicts with the restaurant management, arrived at work that morning and got into a heated argument with the manager. This altercation escalated when Carrodus, driven by what he described as "white rage," left the restaurant, retrieved an AK-47 assault rifle from his home, and returned to the pizzeria.
Upon his return, Carrodus fired multiple rounds into the restaurant, targeting the manager and other employees. Frank Strahorn, in an act of bravery, attempted to help his coworkers escape the building. Tragically, he was struck by gunfire and succumbed to his injuries. Carrodus continued his rampage, firing at the manager's vehicle before surrendering to the police. He was subsequently arrested and charged with second-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and several counts of attempted second-degree murder.
The legal proceedings following the incident were swift. Carrodus was found guilty and sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. During the trial, emotional testimonies from Frank's family highlighted his heroic actions and the devastating loss they had suffered. The community of Sebastian mourned the loss of a beloved member, and Frank was remembered for his selflessness and courage.
Frank Strahorn's death was a senseless tragedy that underscored the dangers of workplace violence and the impact of unresolved personal conflicts. His legacy, however, lives on through the memories of those who knew him and the heroic actions he took in his final moments.
