Tragic Shooting at Jacksonville Block Party Claims Life of Elderly Woman
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — June 13, 2025
A Friday night block party on Jacksonville’s Mid-Westside turned tragic when an elderly woman was fatally shot, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO). The incident occurred around 9:30 p.m. in the 1100 block of Grothe Street, sending shockwaves through the community and raising fresh concerns about safety at public gatherings.
JSO Sgt. Steve Rudlaff said that the department’s ShotSpotter technology—an automated system that detects and alerts police to gunfire—was activated in the area shortly before officers arrived on scene. When a patrol unit responded to the alert, they discovered a woman believed to be between 60 and 70 years old slumped over in a chair on the sidewalk, suffering from a gunshot wound to the head.
Despite the rapid arrival of emergency personnel from the Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department, the woman was pronounced dead at the scene.
“Initial investigation reveals that there was a block party with over 100 people in attendance at the intersection of Grothe Street and Eaverson Street,” Sgt. Rudlaff stated during a press briefing. “The victim was found shot sitting in a chair on the sidewalk, in what should have been a night of joy and community gathering.”
The name of the victim has not yet been publicly released, pending notification of next of kin. Authorities did not confirm whether the woman was targeted or struck by a stray bullet, and no arrests have been made at this time.
Investigators worked late into the night canvassing the area, searching for witnesses and collecting potential surveillance footage from homes and businesses nearby. The large crowd that had gathered for the block party reportedly dispersed quickly in the wake of the shooting, making it more challenging for detectives to immediately piece together what led to the deadly gunfire.
Community leaders and residents have since expressed their sorrow and frustration. Many are asking how a neighborhood celebration could so abruptly descend into violence. “It’s devastating,” said one local resident. “She was just out there, enjoying the night like the rest of us. Whoever did this needs to be brought to justice.”
Authorities are urging anyone who may have been present or has knowledge of the incident to step forward. JSO is encouraging those with information to call their non-emergency line at 904-630-0500. Those who wish to remain anonymous can provide tips through Crime Stoppers at 1-866-845-TIPS.
As the investigation continues, the Jacksonville community is left mourning the tragic loss of a life and grappling with another senseless act of violence. The area where the shooting occurred has seen its share of crime in recent years, prompting renewed calls for proactive intervention and community-based solutions.
Police have not ruled out any motives and are pursuing all leads. They continue to ask that anyone with cellphone footage, dashcams, or home surveillance that may have captured anything around the time of the shooting to come forward.
This heartbreaking event serves as a grim reminder of the persistent impact of gun violence, even during moments meant for unity and celebration. As Jacksonville mourns, city leaders and residents alike hope for accountability—and peace.