A stretch of Jacksonville's Northside turned into an active crime scene Friday evening after a reported shooting on the 200 block of Vernis Avenue left a man dead and a person of interest in custody.
The victim, described by authorities as a white man in his 50s, was pronounced dead at the scene. The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said a person of interest was detained and multiple witnesses were taken in for questioning. Investigators added that, based on what they know so far, they do not believe there is any ongoing threat to the surrounding community.
The shooting was reported shortly before 5:45 p.m. on March 6. Deputies responded to the 200 block of Vernis Avenue, where they found the victim, according to First Coast News. Detectives with JSO's homicide unit are leading the investigation and processing the scene.
JSO response
In a statement, the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office said detectives detained a person of interest and transported several witnesses to be interviewed as they work to piece together what happened. The agency reiterated that it does not believe there is any additional threat to residents while detectives remain on scene.
How to help
Police are asking anyone with information or video related to the shooting to contact investigators. Tips may be submitted by calling 904-630-0500 or emailing [email protected], and anonymous tips can be made to First Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS, according to First Coast News.
What’s next
The person detained in connection with the case has been described as a “person of interest” and, as of the latest reports, has not been formally charged. Detectives say the investigation is active and will be reviewed with the State Attorney before any charges are filed. Authorities are urging anyone who may have relevant footage or information to come forward.
Legal note
Being labeled a person of interest means investigators want to question someone and are looking closely at their possible connection to an incident. It is not a criminal charge, and any decision to arrest or file charges will be made by prosecutors after they review the evidence gathered by detectives.
