Mark Penland, a 53-year-old white male from Ocala, Florida, died on March 22, 2016, as a result of a fatal shooting during a domestic disturbance at his residence. The incident occurred at 8311 Southeast 16th Terrace, Ocala, and involved his wife, Michelle Dinkins-Penland, who was 44 years old at the time. According to reports, the altercation began when Mark Penland, who had been married to Michelle for just over a year, became upset during a family gathering to celebrate his stepson's 14th
birthday. Mark went outside to grill chicken and refused to join the celebration inside. When his stepson went outside, a physical altercation ensued, leading to Mark pinning the boy to the door and beating him.
Michelle Dinkins-Penland and her mother intervened, but Mark continued his assault, even throwing his mother-in-law to the ground and hitting his wife in the eye. Fearing for her son's life, Michelle retrieved a .38-caliber revolver and shot Mark twice. Despite her efforts to help him and a call to 911, Mark Penland was pronounced dead at Ocala Regional Medical Center. The investigation revealed that Mark had been suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) due to his military service and was on medication for the condition.
The State Attorney's Office determined that the shooting was justified under Florida's "stand your ground" law and the justifiable use of deadly force. Michelle Dinkins-Penland was not charged, as it was concluded that she acted in self-defense to protect her family. Witnesses corroborated that Mark Penland had been beating the boy and that Michelle's actions were necessary to prevent further harm. The case was closed with no further legal action taken against Michelle Dinkins-Penland.
