Joshua Lee Akins, 32, of Bell, Florida, died on June 9, 2018. Born May 13, 1986, in Gainesville, he worked as a welder in the Machine Fabrication Industry and was active in Mt. Nebo Baptist Church. He is survived by his parents Wayne and Kathy Akins, his wife Veronica Landrum Akins, children Hailee, Brylee, J.J. Blayne, Trevor, and Haiden, siblings, and several nieces and nephews.

Local authorities determined his death was not natural and treated it as a homicide. Investigators conducted forensic analysis, reviewed surveillance footage, and interviewed witnesses; several people were questioned and some arrests were made. Court proceedings and multiple hearings related to charges including manslaughter and first-degree murder are underway, with prosecution and defense contesting evidence and testimony.

Anyone who knew Joshua, his routines, or who has information about the events of June 9, 2018, is asked to come forward.