On February 19, 2024, at approximately 6 PM, Jeffrey Simmons, a 57-year-old resident of Vero Beach, Florida, was fatally shot by his live-in girlfriend, Donna Smith. The incident occurred inside the office of the Vista Royale golf community, where Simmons worked as a manager.
Simmons and Smith had been in a relationship for some time, which those who knew them described as "tumultuous."
On the evening of the incident, a verbal disturbance led Simmons to leave the home he shared with Smith. Smith then followed him to the office, where she waited for his arrival. Upon Simmons entering the office, Smith fired two shots, resulting in his death.
When deputies arrived at the scene, they found Simmons dead. Smith had called 911, claiming she had been choked and chased by Simmons. However, investigators found that her statements were inconsistent with the forensic evidence. There were no signs of a struggle at the apartment, and it was determined that Smith had actually pursued Simmons after he left their home.
Donna Smith, 49, was arrested and charged with second-degree murder. She was scheduled for her first court appearance shortly after the incident. Simmons was remembered by those who knew him as a kind and outgoing individual. He was a Sergeant Major in the National Guard, a 6th degree black belt, a cancer survivor, and a community leader. He had also served in the military, including three deployments, and was a loving father and husband.
The community of Vista Royale, where the incident took place, was described as quiet and safe, and residents were shocked by the news. Employees at the country club where Simmons worked remembered him fondly, highlighting his kind and supportive nature.
