Kobe Jeremiah Bradshaw, an 18-year-old from Ocala, Florida, tragically lost his life on June 5, 2021. Bradshaw was shot multiple times at Ocala Park Estates, a northwest Ocala neighborhood. Responding deputies found him suffering from gunshot wounds to his abdomen, clavicle, and arm. Despite being transported to Ocala Regional Medical Center, he succumbed to his injuries. The medical examiner ruled his death a homicide.
According to reports, Bradshaw was ambushed by two masked suspects who fled the scene. The investigation revealed that 15 spent 9mm shell casings were found at the scene, and several shots struck nearby residences. A .380 caliber handgun was found in Bradshaw’s backpack, but there was no evidence he returned fire.
The suspects, identified as 23-year-old Ralph Fontil and 17-year-old Brandon Jordan Merizier, were arrested and charged with second-degree murder in November 2021. Witnesses reported seeing the suspects running from the scene wearing ski masks. The investigation, led by Major Crimes Detective Andrew Canterberry, involved forensic evidence, video surveillance, and cellphone records. Fontil and Merizier were both held without bond, with Merizier being transferred to Marion County Jail upon being charged as an adult. Fontil faced additional federal firearms charges but was acquitted.
In June 2023, Merizier was found guilty of first-degree murder with a firearm after a two-day trial. The jury deliberated for just 31 minutes before delivering the verdict. The prosecution argued that the motive for the shooting was revenge for the killing of Chris "Chevy" Chevelon, a 15-year-old who was shot and killed in December 2020. Merizier faces up to life in prison, with additional charges pending. Fontil, who was also charged with first-degree murder, is awaiting trial. The case highlighted the ongoing issue of juvenile involvement in violent crimes in Marion County.
