Benjamin Paul Ikner, a 38-year-old African American male, tragically lost his life on June 6, 2014, in Orlando, Florida. The incident occurred in the afternoon when deputies were called to a home on South Ivey Lane following reports of a shooting. Upon arrival, they found Benjamin Ikner and another man, Robert Sims, who was 27 years old, both suffering from gunshot wounds. Ikner was transported to the Orlando Regional Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
Sims was critically injured but survived the attack.
The investigation revealed that the shooting was a result of a robbery. Witnesses reported seeing a black car fleeing the scene shortly after the gunshots were heard. According to family members, the robbery involved the assailants forcing one of the men to strip before shooting him. Neighbors described Ikner as an innocent bystander who was caught in the crossfire.
Law enforcement officials identified three suspects involved in the crime. Two of the suspects entered the house and shot Ikner, while the third suspect remained in the vehicle. Despite efforts to locate the suspects, they managed to escape, and the case remains unsolved. The Orange County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the incident, urging anyone with information to come forward.
The death of Benjamin Paul Ikner has left a significant impact on his family and community. His daughter, Leiana, frequently shares memories and tributes to her father, expressing the profound loss she feels. The community remembers Ikner as a beloved figure who was taken too soon.
