Matthew Raymond Hagerty, a 24-year-old white male from Titusville, Florida, tragically lost his life on March 11, 2015. Born on July 26, 1990, Matthew was remembered as a beloved son, brother, grandson, cousin, and friend. He had a passion for music, his girlfriend Megan, his dog Roxie, and the beauty of the outdoors. His untimely death left a void in the lives of those who knew him.
On the afternoon of March 11, 2015, Matthew was found shot to death in his car on Mockingbird Lane in
Titusville. Surveillance video from a nearby apartment complex captured three individuals running from the scene just before officers arrived. The investigation revealed that Matthew had driven to the location to buy drugs from the three suspects, who intended to rob him. During the encounter, Matthew was shot twice and succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The Titusville Police Department quickly identified and arrested three suspects in connection with Matthew's murder. Jeremiah Jermain Trice, 19, Jiris Kelly, 18, and Tyreik Jaru Smith, 15, all from Titusville, were charged with murder. The arrests were made after search warrants were executed at homes on Gibson Street and Canaveral Avenue, where physical evidence was found linking the suspects to the crime. The police believe that the suspects planned to rob Matthew for a small amount of cash, which ultimately led to his death.
Matthew's death was a devastating blow to his family and the community. His mother expressed her grief, stating that they had made plans to spend time together that week. The senseless nature of the crime, driven by a robbery for a mere $40, highlighted the ruthlessness and heartlessness of the act. The case brought attention to the dangers of drug-related activities and the tragic consequences that can arise from them.
The investigation into Matthew's murder was thorough, with the police relying on surveillance footage and witness statements to build their case. The swift arrests and charges brought some measure of justice to Matthew's family, though the loss of their loved one could never be fully compensated. The community mourned the loss of a young man whose life was cut short by a senseless act of violence.
