A Halloween celebration in downtown Orlando turned deadly when a 17-year-old, Jaylen Dwayne Edgar, allegedly opened fire in the crowded nightlife area, leaving two people dead and six others wounded. The shooting took place early Friday morning around The Block, a popular nightlife spot hosting hundreds of Halloween revelers. As festivities continued, Edgar reportedly fired into the crowd, causing chaos and panic before attempting a second shooting a block away. Orlando Police swiftly responded to the scene, with officers tackling Edgar after he fired at the crowd for a second time.
Chief Eric Smith praised the officers' quick and courageous actions, which likely prevented further casualties. Surveillance footage captured the harrowing moments when Edgar, who was previously arrested for grand theft in 2023, fired point-blank at one of his victims before blending back into the crowd. Smith noted that Edgar had walked past numerous police officers, seemingly intent on his actions despite their presence. Although the motive behind the shooting remains unclear, officials believe Edgar intended to cause significant harm.
Edgar now faces multiple charges and will likely be tried as an adult due to the severity and premeditated nature of his actions. Orlando Police reported a large turnout of 50,000 to 100,000 people for Halloween festivities, which historically draw massive crowds. State Attorney Andrew Bain cited several aggravating factors in Edgar’s case, describing the crime as brazen and premeditated, which underscores the decision to pursue adult charges.
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