James Walker Harris, a 37-year-old resident of Apopka, Florida, tragically passed away on December 15, 2020. Born on May 29, 1983, in Tampa, Florida, Harris was a beloved father, brother, and community member. His untimely death was the result of a fatal shooting incident that occurred on the evening of December 15, 2020. Deputies from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call reporting a possible shooting on Hermit Smith Road, near Roosevelt Nichols Park, around 7:45 p.m.
Upon arrival, they found Harris with life-threatening injuries. He was immediately transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.
The investigation into Harris's death revealed that the shooting was not a random act. Detectives from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office have been actively pursuing leads and gathering evidence to identify the perpetrator. Shortly after the incident, the sheriff's office released a sketch of a suspect believed to be involved in the shooting. The authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation. Despite these efforts, as of the latest updates, no arrests have been made, and the case remains open.
In addition to the criminal investigation, there have been legal proceedings related to Harris's estate. On August 16, 2021, a probate case was filed in the Orange County Circuit Courts concerning the estate of James Collins Walker Harris. This case is part of the legal process to manage and distribute Harris's assets following his death. The probate proceedings are ongoing, and further details about the case are available through court records.
The community of Apopka has been deeply affected by Harris's death, and there have been calls for justice and increased efforts to solve the case. The Orange County Sheriff’s Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting, and they remain hopeful that new information will come to light, leading to the apprehension of the suspect responsible for this tragic event.