David Jewell Obituary, Death – The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that an off-duty police officer was shot and killed Monday during a violent attack at a Circle K gas station in Ormond-by-the-Sea. Authorities identified the victim as David Jewell, a member of the Edgewater Police Department.
Sheriff Mike Chitwood named the suspect as Eduardo Machado, who worked as a clerk at the gas station where the shooting occurred. On Tuesday, officials revealed that Machado had confessed to the killing during questioning by investigators.
According to the sheriff’s office, Machado admitted that he had seen Jewell several times at the store before the incident. He recalled believing that he might have argued with Jewell in the past, though he could not give deputies clear details about when or what the disagreement involved. While Machado never confirmed whether he knew Jewell was a police officer, he did mention that he had seen him carrying a firearm previously, which made him fearful.
When asked about his motivation, Machado gave little explanation, telling deputies only that he had been having “a bad day.” Investigators reported that Machado arrived at the Circle K on Monday, spotted Jewell, and then shot him multiple times at close range using a handgun he had recently purchased. Jewell was struck several times and died at the scene.
Deputies also spoke with Machado’s family, who provided further insight into his background. Family members said he had been diagnosed with a mental disorder and had reported hearing voices. They described him as a quiet individual who spent much of his time playing video games.
While Machado had no serious criminal record, authorities did note a prior incident involving him in 2023. In that case, he came to the attention of law enforcement after a complaint was made that he had allegedly fired guns at Tomoka State Park. The matter did not result in major charges but was documented in police records.
The Volusia County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the severity of the crime, characterizing the shooting as a targeted attack. Machado has since been charged with first-degree murder in connection with Jewell’s death.
The killing has sent shockwaves through the law enforcement community and the local area. Sheriff Chitwood spoke publicly about the loss, expressing condolences to Jewell’s family, colleagues, and the Edgewater Police Department. He also condemned the senseless nature of the violence, describing the circumstances as both tragic and deeply disturbing.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to piece together the timeline of events and determine whether Machado’s mental health struggles played a role in the attack. Deputies said there is no evidence at this time that the shooting was related to Jewell’s role as a police officer.
The community has been left reeling by the sudden and violent death of Officer Jewell, who was remembered as a dedicated law enforcement professional. Officials indicated that further updates will be released as the case proceeds through the court system.
