Fatal Shooting at McCabe’s Bar in DeLand: One Dead, Bartender Injured, Suspect at Large
DeLAND, FL — Authorities are actively investigating a deadly shooting that unfolded in the early morning hours of Saturday, May 3, 2025, at McCabe’s Bar, a popular downtown establishment located at 225 N. Amelia Avenue in DeLand. The incident has left one man dead and a bartender wounded, prompting a city-wide manhunt for the suspect involved.
What Happened
At approximately 1:30 a.m., officers from the DeLand Police Department and deputies from the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a shooting inside the bar. Witnesses on the scene described a chaotic brawl between several men that quickly escalated into gun violence.
According to investigators, a fistfight broke out among a group of patrons. Amid the melee, one of the individuals pulled a firearm and opened fire inside the crowded bar. Multiple gunshots were reported, sending patrons scrambling for cover.
Victims Identified
The primary victim, 32-year-old Keshod Harris of DeLand, was shot multiple times in the chest. Emergency responders rushed Harris to a nearby hospital, but despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead shortly after arrival. His next of kin has been notified, and the community is mourning the sudden and senseless loss.
In addition to Harris, a bartender was also injured, sustaining gunshot wounds to both hands while trying to either intervene or protect others during the chaos. The bartender was transported to the hospital and is expected to recover from non-life-threatening injuries.
Suspect on the Run
The suspect, whose identity has not yet been released, fled the scene immediately following the shooting. Witnesses believe he may have escaped in a vehicle parked nearby. Despite a rapid police response and an ongoing investigation, the suspect remains at large.
Authorities have not yet determined a definitive motive, but early indications suggest that the confrontation may have stemmed from a personal dispute or altercation that escalated far too quickly.
Community Support & Police Response
The DeLand Police Department, working in conjunction with the Volusia Sheriff’s Office, has launched an intensive investigation and is following multiple leads. Detective Jackson Miller is spearheading the case and is urging anyone with relevant information — no matter how minor it may seem — to come forward.
“We are asking the community for their help,” said Chief Jason Umberger of the DeLand Police Department. “We believe someone out there knows what happened or who was involved. Please do the right thing and come forward.”
Submit a Tip — Reward Offered
Community members can submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers of Central Florida, which is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information that leads to an arrest.
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Call the tip line: 800-423-TIPS (8477)
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Contact Detective Jackson Miller directly: millerja@deland.org
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DeLand Police Department: 386-626-7400
All tips are kept confidential, and Spanish-speaking operators are available to assist callers 24/7.
Safety and Moving Forward
The fatal shooting has shocked DeLand’s tight-knit downtown community, where McCabe’s Bar is a longstanding fixture. Local business owners and residents have expressed their grief and concern, and many are calling for increased security measures in nightlife areas to prevent future violence.
The DeLand Police Department has reiterated its commitment to protecting public spaces and encourages residents to remain vigilant. Additional patrols may be placed in the downtown area in the coming days as a precaution.
“Violence like this has no place in our community,” said Sheriff Mike Chitwood. “We are committed to finding whoever is responsible and ensuring justice is served.”
In Memory of Keshod Harris
Friends and family members of Keshod Harris describe him as a kind-hearted and hardworking individual who was well-known in the DeLand community. A candlelight vigil is being planned in his honor, with details expected to be shared on social media in the coming days.
This remains a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Anyone who was at McCabe’s Bar during the incident or may have recorded video or audio is urged to contact authorities immediately.