Dedario Jermartinez Hunter – Authorities in Florida have announced that a man has surrendered to law enforcement following a tragic incident that took place during a memorial service in Gretna over the weekend. The event, which was meant to honor the memory of another individual who had recently passed away, turned sorrowful after gunfire erupted, leaving one person dead and several others injured.
According to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), 40-year-old Dedario Jermartinez Hunter, a resident of Gretna, turned himself in at the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office on Monday, November 3. Officials confirmed that Hunter is being held in connection with the shooting that occurred on November 1 at a gathering attended by a large number of community members.
Investigators reported that the memorial service was being held to honor someone who had lost their life in a separate violent incident two weeks earlier. During the gathering, an individual arrived at the scene armed and began firing toward the crowd. Witnesses described moments of panic as people tried to find safety amid the sudden chaos.
According to the FDLE, four individuals were struck by the gunfire, and sadly, one of them did not survive. In addition, a fifth person was hurt while attempting to escape the scene after being accidentally hit by a vehicle during the commotion. Emergency responders quickly arrived and provided aid to the injured before transporting them to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Authorities identified Dedario Hunter as the suspected shooter after a detailed investigation that included witness statements, evidence collection, and video analysis. Following his surrender, he was formally charged with second-degree murder, though officials noted that additional charges could be filed as the case continues to unfold.
At this stage, investigators have not disclosed a clear motive behind the incident. The FDLE stated that their work remains ongoing and that more arrests may be made as they continue to gather evidence and piece together the full circumstances leading up to the shooting. Law enforcement agencies are collaborating closely with local prosecutors to ensure that all aspects of the event are thoroughly reviewed.
The shooting shocked the tight-knit Gretna community, which had gathered to pay respects to a loved one who had died only weeks earlier. Residents expressed deep sadness over the tragedy, describing it as a painful reminder of how moments meant for unity and remembrance can be disrupted by sudden violence. Community leaders have since called for calm, encouraging residents to support one another and to work together toward peace and understanding.
The Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office and FDLE have both emphasized their commitment to bringing justice for the victims and their families. They also praised the suspect’s decision to surrender peacefully, which allowed authorities to proceed with the investigation without further harm. Officials expressed gratitude to the community members who provided information that helped investigators quickly identify the person responsible.
Law enforcement agencies across Florida continue to stress the importance of community cooperation in solving and preventing such incidents. They urge residents to report any suspicious activity and to take advantage of local conflict resolution and community safety programs aimed at preventing disputes from escalating.
While details about the victims have not yet been publicly released, officials have confirmed that those injured are receiving medical care. The FDLE also stated that additional information will be provided once investigators are able to confirm key facts without compromising the ongoing inquiry.
Community groups and local faith leaders in Gadsden County have begun organizing outreach efforts to support those affected by the tragedy, offering counseling and resources to help the neighborhood heal.
As of now, Dedario Jermartinez Hunter remains in custody while the investigation continues. Authorities have reiterated that their primary focus is ensuring accountability and maintaining public safety as they work toward a full understanding of what led to the devastating incident.
