Coty Michael Bradley, a 27-year-old male from Fort Walton Beach, Florida, tragically lost his life on April 14, 2019. Born on August 27, 1991, in Pensacola, Florida, Coty was known for his love of fishing, riding dirt bikes with his son, and his passion for the Florida State Seminoles. He was a dedicated father and a hard worker, cherished by his family and friends.
The circumstances surrounding Coty's death were violent and tragic.
On the night of April 14, 2019, Coty was shot and killed in Fort Walton Beach. The incident occurred at 205 Martisa Road, where Coty was found dead, and his friend, Donnie Shawn Clemons, was discovered with gunshot wounds to the face and thigh. The shooting was reported to have involved multiple rounds of gunfire, with seventeen shell casings found at the scene.
Aramis Mario Garcia, known by the street name "Chevy," was identified as the primary suspect in the shooting. Garcia was formally charged with first-degree premeditated murder for the death of Coty Michael Bradley, as well as two counts of attempted murder. One of the attempted murder charges was related to the shooting of Donnie Shawn Clemons, while the other was for firing at Devonte Terrell Riker, who was present at the scene.
The investigation revealed that the altercation began when Garcia approached Coty and Clemons shortly after they were dropped off by an Uber driver. Garcia, who appeared agitated, parked his vehicle and walked towards them before opening fire. Witnesses reported hearing Garcia yell Coty's name before shooting. The incident also involved Garcia firing at Riker, who later testified that Garcia admitted to the shootings and expressed a desire to eliminate any witnesses.
Garcia's trial began in December 2019, where he faced charges of first-degree premeditated murder and two counts of attempted murder. The prosecution presented evidence and witness testimonies detailing the events leading up to and following the shooting. Ultimately, Garcia was convicted and sentenced to three life terms in prison without the possibility of parole.
Coty Michael Bradley's death was a profound loss to his family and community. His memory is preserved by those who knew and loved him, and his tragic end serves as a somber reminder of the impact of violence on individuals and their families.