Durrell Dupree Palmer, a 36-year-old African American male from Cantonment, FL, was tragically killed on May 23, 2022. The incident occurred at a Circle K gas station in Cantonment, where Palmer engaged in a heated conversation with Charles Tyree Moore III, a 37-year-old male. The confrontation, which began over a social media feud, escalated when Moore suddenly pulled out a handgun and shot Palmer four times in the torso at close range.
Surveillance footage from the gas station captured the entire encounter, showing Palmer initiating contact with Moore at the gas pump and the subsequent fatal shooting.
Following the shooting, Moore fled the scene but later called 911 to turn himself in. He was taken into custody by the Escambia County Sheriff's Office. During the investigation, it was revealed that Palmer had a loaded gun in the center console of his truck, but it was not involved in the altercation. Moore claimed he acted in self-defense, citing threats Palmer had made against him on social media and his belief that Palmer thought he was having an affair with Palmer's wife. However, the court found that Moore's actions did not align with his self-defense claim, as he had approached Palmer's vehicle and engaged in the conversation.
Moore was charged with second-degree murder and faced a trial where his attorney argued for dismissal based on Florida's "Stand Your Ground" law. The motion was denied, and Moore was ultimately convicted by a jury. On July 17, 2024, Moore was sentenced to 50 years in prison by Circuit Judge John Simon. The judge noted that Moore's actions demonstrated he was not in fear for his life at the time of the shooting, as he had approached Palmer and engaged in a conversation before pulling out his gun.
Palmer was a well-known community activist in Pensacola, recognized for his contributions to various community projects, including Thanksgiving turkey giveaways, Easter egg hunts, job fairs, and a Black Lives Matter mural. His death was a significant loss to the community, and local leaders praised his efforts and dedication to improving the lives of others. Palmer had also received an award from the Pensacola Branch 5124 of the NAACP for his outstanding contributions and excellent service.
The case drew significant attention due to the nature of the confrontation and the involvement of social media in escalating the feud. The surveillance footage played a crucial role in the trial, providing clear evidence of the events leading up to Palmer's death. Moore's conviction and sentencing brought some closure to the case, but the loss of Durrell Palmer continues to be felt deeply by his family, friends, and the community he served.
