Florida Teen Turns Himself In After Deadly Lake Wales Shooting That Left 20-Year-Old Man Dead
LAKE WALES, FL — A 19-year-old man from Frostproof has been arrested and charged with second-degree murder following a fatal shooting that claimed the life of a 20-year-old Lake Wales resident Tuesday afternoon, according to local authorities.
Police say the incident unfolded around 1:15 p.m. on South 9th Street, when officers were dispatched to reports of gunfire in the area. Upon arrival, they discovered 20-year-old Jayvyn McFadden suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.
Emergency responders rushed McFadden to a nearby hospital, but despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.
Suspect Turned Himself In Hours After the Shooting
Investigators identified the suspected shooter as Miles Edward Brown, a 19-year-old resident of Frostproof. Authorities say Brown later turned himself in voluntarily to law enforcement.
He has been charged with second-degree murder and tampering with evidence, according to a statement released by the Lake Wales Police Department.
At this stage, detectives believe the shooting may have been preceded by an argument, though the exact motive remains under investigation.
Police Continue to Investigate Motive and Circumstances
Lake Wales police are continuing to piece together what led up to the confrontation. Officers canvassed the area Tuesday evening, collecting shell casings and speaking to several witnesses who heard gunfire.
Authorities have not disclosed whether the suspect and victim knew each other, though sources close to the investigation indicate that the two had prior interactions.
Detectives are now reviewing nearby surveillance footage and processing forensic evidence to establish a clearer timeline of events.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Case
The shooting has shaken residents of the typically quiet Polk County neighborhood, where neighbors told reporters they were stunned by the sudden burst of violence in broad daylight.
“We just heard loud pops, and then sirens everywhere,” one resident said. “You don’t expect something like that to happen right down your street.”
Brown remains in custody at the Polk County Jail as the investigation continues. Police have not announced when he will make his first court appearance.
Authorities are urging anyone with additional information about the shooting to contact the Lake Wales Police Department or Heartland Crime Stoppers at 1-800-226-TIPS (8477).
For ongoing updates on developing crime stories across Florida, visit SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
