Anthony William "HardRock" Fields, a 44-year-old African American man from Daytona Beach, Florida, tragically lost his life on February 5, 2017. Fields, who was born on July 19, 1972, was a beloved member of his community, known for his friendly nature and dedication to his family. He worked as a truck driver for Sunrise Trading Company and was actively involved in his local church, Calvary Christian Center in Ormond Beach.
Fields was married to Chaka Walker-Fields and had several children and grandchildren, who were central to his life.
The circumstances surrounding Anthony Fields' death were deeply distressing. On the evening of February 5, 2017, Fields was fatally shot at the Carolina Club apartments on Carolina Lake Drive in Daytona Beach. The incident occurred during a domestic dispute involving his daughter, Chakera Fields, and her ex-boyfriend, Dominic Neeley. Neeley, a 21-year-old man from Palm Coast, had come to the Fields' residence following an argument with Chakera. The altercation escalated when Neeley's mother, Addie Pearl Hodges, arrived and began arguing with Chaka Fields. As the situation intensified, Neeley retrieved a firearm and shot Anthony Fields multiple times, resulting in his death. Chaka Fields was also grazed by a bullet during the incident.
Following the shooting, Dominic Neeley fled the scene in his vehicle but was apprehended by law enforcement officers in Flagler County. Neeley confessed to the crime and was charged with first-degree murder, as well as aggravated fleeing and eluding. He was held without bail at the Flagler County jail before being transferred to the Volusia County Branch Jail. The case highlighted concerns about security at the Carolina Club apartments, as it was the second homicide at the complex in less than two years.
The tragic death of Anthony Fields left a profound impact on his family and community. His passing was mourned by many, and his funeral services were held at Mt. Tabor First Baptist Church in Palatka, Florida. The investigation into his murder was thorough, with law enforcement officials working diligently to ensure justice was served. The case against Dominic Neeley proceeded through the legal system, with the community closely following the developments. Fields' death underscored the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of addressing such issues within communities.
