Gunfire rattled the Valencia Way Apartments on Jacksonville's Westside Sunday evening, leaving a man in his early 20s with a gunshot wound and a lot of unanswered questions for detectives.
The victim was hit in the shoulder near the complex on Labelle Street and took off running, making it into a nearby apartment to get help before deputies arrived. His injury was described as non-life-threatening, and investigators later found nine spent shell casings at the scene while they pulled surveillance video to look for clues about who opened fire.
JSO: Response, evidence and victim condition
According to First Coast News, deputies with the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office were called out just after 6:15 p.m. after multiple 911 callers reported shots ringing out at the complex.
The man, identified only as being in his early 20s, was treated for a gunshot wound to the shoulder that officials say is not life-threatening, and he is recovering. Investigators collected nine used shell casings where the shooting happened and are now going through surveillance footage from the area in hopes of spotting whoever was behind the trigger.
Investigation underway and how to tip
The Sheriff's Office says detectives are treating the case as an active investigation and are canvassing the Westside neighborhood for anyone who saw or heard something. Residents called 911 after hearing the gunfire, and deputies followed up by interviewing people in nearby units after the wounded man ran into a neighboring apartment for help.
Anyone with information is asked to get in touch with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office or to submit an anonymous tip to First Coast Crime Stoppers.
Valencia Way's recent safety concerns
Valencia Way, formerly known as Eureka Gardens, has been on the radar of city leaders and law enforcement for years because of violent incidents and long-running maintenance complaints. As reported by News4Jax, Jacksonville officials moved in 2024 to push the property to improve public safety, calling for better security and upgraded camera systems after a series of crimes at the complex.
Residents and officials have previously said many of the cameras on-site have not worked properly and that security presence around the sprawling property has been limited.
Suspect description and next steps
Investigators say a possible suspect may have been dressed in all black clothing with a red face covering, according to First Coast News. No arrests have been announced.
Authorities say they plan to release any useful surveillance images if they could help identify the person involved. Anyone who witnessed the shooting or recognizes the description of the suspect is urged to call JSO at 904-630-0500 or First Coast Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS.
