SANTA ROSA BEACH, Fla. — A suspect has been arrested after a deadly shooting Wednesday morning on East Pinehurst Drive, the Walton County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO) announced.
Deputies were at a residence just after 10 a.m. on October 1 for a civil service call when they reportedly heard gunfire from inside the home.
Investigators determined the shooting followed a verbal dispute between the victim and 27-year-old Mario Anthony Streete over an ongoing issue regarding his move from the residence. According to the WCSO, the confrontation escalated into a physical altercation after Mr Streete was served eviction paperwork.
Witnesses said the victim’s husband discharged a firearm in an attempt to separate the two. Streete then reportedly retrieved another firearm from a bedroom, loaded it, and fired multiple rounds toward the victim and another individual as they tried to flee the residence, investigators said.
The WCSO said the victim was struck and killed in the exchange. Mr Streete sustained a gunshot wound to the leg.
Deputies confronted Streete outside and took him into custody without further incident. He was transported by the South Walton Fire District for medical treatment before being discharged and booked.
Mr Streete has been charged with discharging a firearm into a dwelling. The WCSO said additional or elevated charges may follow as the investigation continues.
The Office of the State Attorney for the First Judicial Circuit is assisting in the case.