On the morning of February 21, 2025, the Live Oak Police Department responded to a vehicle crash at approximately 7:30 a.m. in the area of 424 Johnson Avenue in Live Oak, Florida. Upon arrival, officers discovered a 2010 silver Audi two-door vehicle that had sustained damage consistent with a single-vehicle crash. Inside the vehicle, they found a deceased white male, later identified as 24-year-old Joseph Gabriel Simmons, who was the registered owner and believed to be the driver. Simmons had suffered a fatal gunshot wound to his upper left torso. Evidence at the scene, including multiple bullet casings and bullet holes in the vehicle, indicated that multiple gunshots had been fired at the car prior to the crash.
The Live Oak Police Department, with assistance from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement initiated a homicide investigation. Investigators discovered that Simmons had recently connected with 18-year-old Tara Williams of Live Oak through social media. Williams had arranged to meet Simmons in person and provided him with directions to a location within the city. After entering his vehicle, Williams directed Simmons to the area of 424 Johnson Avenue. It was determined that Williams had conspired with two other individuals—20-year-old Zed Washington of Jasper and a 17-year-old juvenile, Zac’Tavious Webb of Live Oak—to commit a robbery.
As Simmons arrived at the designated location, Washington and Webb approached the driver's side of his vehicle and attempted to rob him at gunpoint. Simmons resisted the robbery, during which he was shot. Despite his injuries, Simmons managed to drive approximately 75 yards before his vehicle crashed into a pile of cut firewood. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Following a month-long investigation, all three suspects were located and arrested. Williams, Washington, and Webb face charges including tampering with evidence, conspiracy to commit robbery, and felony murder. The Live Oak Police Department expressed gratitude to the FDLE and the sheriff's offices of Hamilton, Columbia, and Suwannee counties for their assistance in the investigation.
Joseph Gabriel Simmons, born on June 25, 2000, in Tennessee, was known for his infectious laughter, vibrant spirit, and kind heart. He is survived by his siblings, stepfather, and father, and was preceded in death by his mother. His untimely death has left a profound impact on his family and community.
