JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – A 70-year-old man was arrested on manslaughter and aggravated battery charges after allegedly shooting and killing a 27-year-old man during a fight between residents of neighboring apartments on Jacksonville’s Westside early Monday morning, October 19, 2026.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) identified the victim as Dakaari Bray, 27, who died after being shot in the chest at an apartment complex on West 13th Street.
The suspect, Willie Smith, 70, was arrested just hours after the shooting and booked into the Duval County jail later that afternoon.
Officers Find 27-Year-Old Man Fatally Shot on West 13th Street
According to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, District 5 patrol officers responded to a reported shooting at an apartment complex on West 13th Street shortly after midnight on October 19.
When officers arrived, they discovered Bray suffering from a gunshot wound to his chest.
Bray died before he could receive medical treatment.
Officers secured the scene and detained multiple witnesses so detectives with JSO’s Homicide Unit could interview them about what happened.
The sheriff’s office did not disclose the exact address of the apartment complex or provide additional information about Bray.
Argument Between Neighbors Escalates Into Deadly Fight
During the investigation, homicide detectives learned that an argument had occurred between residents of neighboring apartment units.
According to JSO, the disagreement escalated into a physical fight.
During the confrontation, Smith allegedly pulled out a firearm and shot Bray in the chest.
Investigators have not disclosed what caused the original argument or how many people participated in the fight.
The sheriff’s office also did not specify whether Smith and Bray were the residents involved in the initial disagreement or whether other individuals were directly involved.
Suspect Arrested Within Hours of Shooting
Following witness interviews and their initial investigation, JSO Homicide Unit detectives identified Smith as the suspected shooter.
Detectives arrested him on two charges:
- Manslaughter
- Aggravated battery with a deadly weapon
Smith was booked into the Duval County jail by approximately 3:30 p.m. Monday, less than 16 hours after officers responded to the shooting.
He remained in custody at the time of the sheriff’s office announcement.
Authorities did not provide information about his bond, upcoming court appearances or the specific allegations supporting the aggravated battery charge.
Manslaughter Investigation Continues
Under Florida law, manslaughter generally involves an unlawful killing without the elements required for a murder charge.
The charge differs from murder in its legal requirements, and the circumstances surrounding a confrontation can be important in determining what charges prosecutors pursue.
In this case, investigators allege Smith fired the fatal shot during a fight at the apartment complex.
JSO has not released additional information about whether Smith made any statements to investigators or claimed self-defense.
The sheriff’s office said its Homicide Unit will continue investigating the circumstances of Bray’s death.
Authorities emphasized their commitment to pursuing justice for Bray’s family and friends.