Photo: Orlando Police Department
The 17-year-old suspect in the deadly shootings that occurred during Halloween celebrations in downtown Orlando, Florida, has been charged as an adult, according to prosecutors. The shootings resulted in the deaths of two people and left six others injured.
State Attorney Andrew Bain announced the decision to charge Jaylen Dwayne Edgar as an adult during a news conference on Monday (November 4).
"This decision was not made lightly and only after reviewing all the available evidence. This decision is based on several aggravating factors, including the brazen nature of the crime and the multiple victims who were shot in the middle of the street downtown who were out simply celebrating Halloween," Bain said.
"To shoot into a massive crowd like that shows a true disregard for life, and the only recourse is to charge this defendant as an adult," Bain added.
Edgar is facing two counts of second-degree murder, with the possibility of more charges to be filed. A grand jury could potentially elevate these charges to first-degree murder.
The victims of the shooting were identified as 25-year-old Tyrek Hill and 19-year-old Timothy Schmidt Jr. The injured victims ranged in age from 18 to 39. Two of the victims were admitted to Orlando Regional Medical Center in critical condition, and a 26-year-old woman was hospitalized after being trampled as bystanders fled the scene.
The incident unfolded as Edgar allegedly opened fire in one location before running away with the crowd. He then opened fire again at a second location, where police apprehended him moments later. Despite the presence of about 100 officers in the area, the shooter was undeterred.
"Whatever his mindset was, he was going to shoot no matter what," said Police Chief Eric Smith.
Authorities are confident that Edgar acted alone and are currently investigating whether the victims were random or known to the suspect. Edgar, who was previously arrested on a grand theft charge in 2023, is not cooperating or speaking with authorities. It is not immediately clear if Edgar has legal representation for the charges filed against him as an adult.