Alexander St. Jean, a 23-year-old resident of Orlando, Florida, tragically lost his life on December 5, 2018, in a violent incident that has since been the subject of extensive investigation. The events unfolded in the early hours of the morning on Hendren Drive, where a double shooting occurred. St. Jean was fatally wounded, and a 16-year-old boy sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The victims were discovered after being dropped off at Florida Hospital East, with St.
Jean pronounced dead shortly after arrival. The Orlando Police Department responded to the scene, finding evidence of a shooting, including shell casings and other forensic materials, but no immediate suspects or victims at the location.
The investigation revealed that the shooting was linked to a home invasion and drug heist. According to police reports, the incident began when two masked men attempted to rob a house on Hendren Drive. Joseph Rivera, a 24-year-old man, arrived at the scene and, upon witnessing the robbery, opened fire on the suspects. Rivera's actions led to a chaotic chase and exchange of gunfire through the neighborhood, ultimately resulting in St. Jean's death. Witnesses reported that Rivera continued shooting until he exhausted his ammunition. The suspects fled in a gray car, which was later found riddled with bullet holes at the hospital where St. Jean and the injured teenager were taken.
Further investigation identified Palmer Cox, a 23-year-old man, as one of the suspects involved in the home invasion. Cox was linked to the crime through a fingerprint left on the emergency room window when he helped drop off St. Jean and the teenager. Surveillance of Cox's home led to his arrest, although no contraband was found in his vehicle during a subsequent search. The police report indicated that the individuals involved in the home invasion were aware of the presence of drugs, money, or other valuables in the house they targeted.
The case against Rivera and Cox has been marked by ongoing legal proceedings. Rivera was charged with murder in connection with the shooting, while Cox faced charges related to the home invasion and his involvement in the events leading to St. Jean's death. The Orlando Police Department has continued to seek information from the public to aid in their investigation, urging anyone with knowledge of the incident to come forward. The tragic death of Alexander St. Jean has left a lasting impact on his family and community, highlighting the devastating consequences of violence and crime.
