The son of a Palatka City commissioner was shot to death on New Year's Eve.
Police were called to Campbell Apartments on Campbell Street at about 10:20 p.m. When officers arrived, they found Jahme Jones, 23, of Palatka on the ground suffering from a gunshot wound to the abdomen.
He was taken to the hospital where he died. Jones is the son of Palatka City Commissioner Tammie McCaskill Williams.
Investigating officers say Jones and Rondale King, 34, also of Palatka, were involved in a fight. "Detectives believe the altercation between King and Jones occurred due to an argument King had earlier in the evening with a female whose name is not being released," the officers said.
"An initial interview has been conducted with King. At this time King has not been arrested or formally charged," police stated.
Shalawn McGee says she watched the chaos unfold after the shooting. She was devastated to learn that it was her cousin who was the victim.
"Nobody thought it was going to result in him getting shot, it was just crazy," said McGee.
McGee said she thought the victim and suspect were good friends. Other friends agreed, perplexed at how quickly the fight escalated.
Police say King may still be arrested and charged as the investigation develops. The state's Stand Your Ground law may become a factor or the charges may be left up to a grand jury if it isn't brought to a speedy trial.
First Coast News asked King to comment but he declined.