Dexter Rentz

Dexter Rentz Jr. was an 18-year-old high school football star with a bright future. A graduating senior from Ocoee High School in Orlando, Florida, the young Black man was known for his athletic talent and a "contagious personality" that could light up a room. He had signed a full scholarship to play for the University of Louisville and hoped to be a leader for younger players. His father described him as a "beautiful human being" who was poised to impact many people.

On the night of April 25, 2020, Dexter was visiting his grandfather's home in Orlando’s Carver Shores neighborhood. He had attended a funeral earlier that day and was at a vigil for the deceased. Shortly after 11 p.m., as he sat in a car about to pull out of the driveway, a drive-by shooting erupted. Four people were struck by gunfire, but Dexter was the only one who did not survive. Police and his family believe he was not the intended target. Responding officers pursued two cars leaving the scene and found Dexter suffering from a gunshot wound in one of them. He was rushed to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

The shooting was reportedly part of an ongoing and violent feud between rival gangs, and the vigil itself was for a man whose death was tied to the dispute. Dexter's death sent a shockwave of grief through his community. Tributes from coaches and teammates flooded social media. The loss resonated so widely that NBA Hall of Famer and former Orlando Magic star Shaquille O’Neal offered to pay for all of Dexter's funeral expenses, including a custom-made casket and a horse and carriage.

For nearly four years, the investigation continued with no arrests announced. An early person of interest was killed in a separate incident before he could be charged in Dexter's case. Then, in March 2024, the Orlando Police Department announced a breakthrough. They arrested Christopher Burke, then 24, and charged him with second-degree murder and conspiracy to commit second-degree murder in connection with the shooting that killed Dexter.

The case saw another major development in January 2025, when the Orlando Police Department issued an arrest warrant for a second suspect, Jerome Smith III. Police asked for the public’s help in locating him. As the legal proceedings against Christopher Burke continue, authorities are still searching for Jerome Smith III. A reward of $5,000 has been offered for information leading to an arrest, and anyone with information is asked to call Central Florida Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS (8477).