Gavin Tyler Rickard, a 19-year-old resident of Jacksonville, Florida, was fatally shot on April 2, 2024, in the area of Pritmore Road in Mandarin. The incident occurred at an apartment complex located just west of San Jose Boulevard. Police responded to a call about a person shot around 10:10 p.m. and found Rickard lying dead on the sidewalk between two apartment buildings.
The events leading to the shooting involved an argument and a sense of unease felt by Rickard's girlfriend.
She had returned home from grocery shopping and noticed Wilkins Dessalines, a 33-year-old resident, staring at her from his porch, which made her feel uncomfortable. She called Rickard, who was at work, seeking his advice because she did not feel safe going back outside. Despite her initial hesitation, she eventually went back out to get the rest of the groceries. Rickard came home around 10 p.m. and went to his porch to smoke tobacco, a routine he usually followed.
The situation escalated when Rickard's girlfriend heard multiple gunshots. She went outside to find Rickard dead on the sidewalk. The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office (JSO) initiated an investigation, during which they found several shell casings, blood, a smoking device, and bullet strikes on the porch where the victim lived.
JSO detectives identified Wilkins Dessalines as the suspect and detained him for questioning. A search warrant was executed at Dessalines' apartment, resulting in the collection of several firearms, including two 9mm handguns. Dessalines was subsequently arrested and charged with second-degree murder in connection with Rickard's death.
Gavin Tyler Rickard is survived by his family, including his mother, stepfather, father, stepmother, siblings, girlfriend, and various other relatives. His death has been met with grief from his loved ones and the community, highlighting the tragic nature of the incident.
