Daryl Eugene Lamont Austin, age 24, was tragically shot and killed on June 15, 2017, in Jacksonville, Florida. He was visiting a home on 103rd Street in the Jacksonville Heights neighborhood with two other men when he was fatally shot. The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office reported that two vehicles—a green SUV and a burgundy car—were seen leaving the scene after the shooting, and the SUV was later recovered.
Despite investigative efforts, no arrests have been made in connection with the case, and the incident remains unsolved. Authorities believe that the shooting could have been a drive-by incident and possibly a case of mistaken identity.
Daryl Austin, also known as "Big Baby" due to his large stature at 6 feet 3 inches and his warm smile, was remembered fondly by his family. He was the youngest of five siblings and had a fun-loving personality. His sister, Jucoby Buchanan, recalled how she rushed to the morgue with her mother, fearing the worst after hearing of a shooting nearby. Her worst fears were confirmed when they learned it was her younger brother who had been killed. Daryl had been out of prison for only a year when he lost his life, having previously served a three-year sentence. His mother, Sheryl Jackson, described him as someone who was always protective of his family and who enjoyed spending time dancing, rapping, and playing sports like basketball and football.
The family has been deeply affected by Daryl's death, and they have not stopped seeking answers. They have actively worked with the anti-crime group MAD DADS, organizing walks in the area where Daryl was killed, knocking on doors, and asking local residents for any information that could help solve the case. His mother has expressed the pain of losing her son, calling for justice and hoping that someone will come forward with information that could bring closure to their family.
