A Volusia County jury has found Robert Blue guilty of Second-Degree Murder (Firearm) following a three-day trial.
The conviction stems from a shooting that occurred in the early morning hours of June 4, 2023, at a Daytona Beach party. According to evidence presented at trial, a local rapper, 32-year-old Jaron Smith, was celebrating a career milestone by burning money in front of a large crowd when Blue approached and began arguing with him. Surveillance footage captured a brief physical altercation before the victim attempted to flee.
As the victim ran away, Blue pulled out a firearm and fired multiple shots, striking the victim in the back and legs. The victim died at the scene. Blue fled but was later arrested.
State Attorney R.J. Larizza commented on the conviction, stating, “We continue our efforts to rid our communities of violent murderers. Our efforts bear fruit, and our citizens are safer for it.”
The case was investigated by the Daytona Beach Police Department. Assistant State Attorneys Helen Schwartz and Haley Mark prosecuted the case. The Honorable Elizabeth Blackburn presided over the trial and will issue a sentence at a later date. Blue faces up to life in prison.
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