Derrick Hartley, a 37-year-old African American male, was tragically shot and killed on March 30, 2019, in Jacksonville, Florida. Hartley, a well-known realtor and father of five, was deeply involved in his community, particularly in the Northwest Jacksonville area where he grew up. His death occurred following an argument in the vicinity of West 35th Street and Moncrief Road.
According to reports, the altercation began when William Clyde Broadnax, a 40-year-old man, backed into Hartley's vehicle, leading to a heated exchange that escalated into violence. Hartley was shot multiple times and succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Hartley's death sent shockwaves through the community, as he was widely regarded as a compassionate and dedicated individual who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those around him. He was known for his efforts to promote homeownership and uplift the neighborhood where he was raised. Friends and colleagues described him as a family man who prioritized his wife and children above all else. His commitment to helping others achieve their dreams of homeownership left a lasting impact on many lives.
In the aftermath of the shooting, William Clyde Broadnax was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. Broadnax, who had a prior arrest for trespassing in 2006, was taken into custody at his home on Bethel Road. The arrest report detailed that the argument between Broadnax and Hartley escalated quickly, resulting in the fatal shooting. Broadnax's arrest brought some measure of closure to Hartley's grieving family and friends, but the loss of such a beloved community figure was deeply felt.
Hartley's funeral was attended by hundreds of mourners, including family, friends, and community members who came together to celebrate his life and mourn his untimely death. Tributes poured in on social media, with many expressing their sorrow and sharing memories of how Hartley had positively impacted their lives. A GoFundMe account was established to support Hartley's family, highlighting the community's desire to honor his legacy and provide for his loved ones in the wake of his tragic passing.
