JSO Investigating Deadly Shooting Near Copeland’s Restaurant on Southside Boulevard
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A man is dead and several individuals are in custody after a broad daylight shooting erupted Wednesday afternoon outside Copeland’s restaurant on Southside Boulevard, according to the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO).
Authorities say the incident occurred around 2 p.m. in the restaurant’s parking lot. The victim, whose name has not yet been released pending next-of-kin notification, was reportedly shot in the chest and was unresponsive when emergency crews arrived. He was quickly transported to a nearby hospital by Jacksonville Fire and Rescue Department (JFRD) personnel but died from his injuries shortly after arrival.
Victim Was at the Scene to “Meet Someone”
Preliminary findings from the investigation reveal that the man was at Copeland’s to meet someone, though detectives have yet to determine the purpose or nature of that meeting. The encounter quickly escalated into violence, resulting in the fatal shooting that has left the community shaken and police scrambling for answers.
According to JSO, three people were detained as suspects Wednesday night. In addition, two other individuals who may have witnessed the shooting are cooperating with law enforcement and are being interviewed as part of the ongoing investigation.
Vehicle of Interest Fled Scene
Following the shooting, a black four-door vehicle, believed to possibly be a Nissan, was seen fleeing the scene. Witnesses reported that the car headed south on Southside Boulevard, raising suspicions that it may have been connected to the shooting either as a getaway vehicle or containing individuals involved in the altercation.
Police are asking for the public’s help in identifying or locating the vehicle. Anyone with information, dashcam footage, or surveillance video from the area is urged to come forward. Tips can be submitted to:
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JSO at (904) 630-0500
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Email: JSOCrimeTips@jaxsheriff.org
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Crime Stoppers: (866) 845-TIPS (8477), where you can remain anonymous
Scene Secured, Restaurant Temporarily Closed
The parking lot of Copeland’s, a well-known local dining establishment, was quickly cordoned off with crime scene tape as detectives began collecting evidence and canvassing for witnesses. Several patrol cars, detectives, and forensic units were on-site for hours after the incident. The restaurant announced it would remain closed for the rest of the day to allow police to complete their investigation.
First Coast News reported that Copeland’s staff and patrons were cooperative but visibly shaken as investigators moved in and out of the scene.
JSO: “Isolated Incident”
While the investigation is still in its early stages, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office believes this was not a random act of violence but rather an isolated incident, likely involving an issue between the victim and the person he was meeting.
“At this time, we believe there is no ongoing threat to the community,” said a JSO spokesperson. “This appears to be an isolated incident involving individuals who may have known each other or had a specific reason to meet.”
Community on Alert, Police Continue Pursuit of Answers
The shooting adds to a troubling pattern of daytime gun violence in public spaces throughout the city, raising renewed concerns about safety and the accessibility of firearms. Law enforcement officials say they are treating the case with urgency and are actively piecing together the timeline, including reviewing surveillance footage from nearby businesses and traffic cameras.
As the community mourns another life lost to senseless violence, JSO urges residents to remain vigilant and speak up if they have any information that can aid in solving the case.
Further updates are expected as police learn more about the identities and roles of those detained and whether the black four-door car played a part in the deadly altercation.