On May 22, 2024, a deadly shooting occurred in the parking lot of North Marion Middle School in Citra, Florida, during an end-of-the-school-year awards ceremony. The victim, 32-year-old Joseph James Juarez Coles, was shot and killed by 34-year-old Roderick Kelvin Watson Jr.
The incident stemmed from a dispute between Coles and his ex-partner, who is Watson's fiancée, over the custody of their three children.
The argument took place in the school parking lot, where all three adults had gathered for the awards ceremony. Witnesses reported that the dispute escalated, with Watson shooting Coles multiple times. Coles was unarmed at the time of the shooting.
According to eyewitness accounts, Watson shot Coles at close range, grabbing him by the back of the neck before firing. After shooting Coles, Watson allegedly beat the victim's lifeless body with his fists. The victim suffered six gunshot wounds to various parts of his body, including his abdomen, under his armpit, right bicep, collar bone, middle back, and upper back.
When deputies arrived, Watson was found sitting on a bench near the victim and surrendered peacefully. He admitted to being the shooter but claimed it was in self-defense, a claim that was contradicted by evidence and witness statements. Watson was taken into custody and charged with second-degree murder with a firearm. He was booked into the Marion County Jail and is being held without bond.
The shooting did not involve any students, and the school district emphasized that there was no danger to the public. However, the incident was deeply disturbing, particularly given the context of the awards ceremony where children were present to receive recognition for their achievements.
Watson's behavior after the shooting was noted as unusual; he showed no remorse and was seen walking around with a smile on his face. During his court appearance on May 24, 2024, Watson again smiled as the judge denied his bond. The community, including friends and family of the victim, has been left heartbroken by the tragic event.
