Quadre Kirkland, a 20-year-old resident of Quincy, Florida, tragically lost his life on August 21, 2022. The incident occurred shortly after midnight when police responded to reports of gunfire near US-90 and South Jackson Street. Upon arrival, officers discovered Kirkland lying next to a black four-door sedan riddled with bullet holes. Despite being rushed to HCA Florida Capital Hospital, Kirkland was pronounced dead from a gunshot wound shortly after his arrival.
The investigation into
Kirkland's death quickly led to the identification of a suspect. Arderrious Makey Smith, a 23-year-old man, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder and attempted homicide in connection with Kirkland's killing. Smith's arrest was part of a broader investigation by the Quincy Police Department, which also involved the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Florida Highway Patrol, and the State Attorney’s Office. The collaborative efforts of these agencies were instrumental in apprehending Smith and bringing charges against him.
Smith's alleged involvement in Kirkland's death was not an isolated incident. Less than a week after the shooting that claimed Kirkland's life, Smith was also implicated in the murder of 18-year-old Shanti Lewis. Similar to Kirkland's case, Lewis was found in her vehicle, which had been struck multiple times by gunfire. Smith was subsequently charged with first-degree murder and two counts of attempted murder in connection with Lewis's death. The Quincy Police Department's investigation revealed that the gunfire in both incidents came from Smith's vehicle, which had been trailing and then driving alongside the victims' vehicles.
The legal proceedings against Smith have been ongoing. In March 2023, Smith was indicted for first-degree premeditated murder, discharging a firearm from a vehicle, and shooting at, into, or within a vehicle. These charges reflect the severity of the crimes and the premeditated nature of the attacks. The indictments underscore the commitment of law enforcement and the judicial system to hold Smith accountable for his actions and seek justice for the victims and their families.
The deaths of Quadre Kirkland and Shanti Lewis have had a profound impact on the Quincy community. Both individuals were remembered by friends and family as kind and caring individuals who were taken too soon. The arrests and subsequent legal actions against Smith have provided some measure of closure, but the community continues to grapple with the loss and the senseless violence that led to these tragic events.
