Leesburg, Florida – Father Turns in 18-Year-Old Son Kameryn Pickard for Fatal Shooting of Dontae Copeland A tragic turn of events unfolded in Leesburg, Florida, after 18-year-old Kameryn Pickard was identified as the suspect in the fatal shooting of 20-year-old Dontae Copeland.
The deadly incident occurred on Tuskegee Street and has sent shockwaves through the local community. In a remarkable and heartbreaking decision, Pickard’s own father turned him in to authorities, urging accountability for the devastating act.
Leesburg Police responded to reports of gunfire late Thursday night and found Dontae Copeland suffering from critical gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts, Copeland was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators quickly gathered information pointing to Kameryn Pickard as the alleged shooter.
Authorities say Pickard fled the scene following the shooting, prompting a brief search. It was then that his father contacted law enforcement and arranged to surrender his son. Officials commended the father’s courage and cooperation, stating that his actions likely prevented further violence and helped bring a swift resolution to the manhunt.
Detectives are still working to determine the motive behind the shooting, though early reports suggest that the two young men may have known each other and that an argument may have escalated. The investigation is ongoing, and Pickard is currently being held on a charge of second-degree murder.
Community members are mourning the loss of Dontae Copeland, remembered by friends as a kind, respectful, and hardworking young man with his life ahead of him. As grief grips both families involved, Leesburg Police are urging anyone with additional information to come forward.This tragic case highlights the heavy toll gun violence continues to take on families and communities—and the heartbreaking decisions parents sometimes face in pursuit of justice.
