Lake City, Florida, a small community in Columbia County, has faced several high-profile shooting incidents in recent years, drawing attention to issues of public safety, gun violence, and community response. These events, ranging from gang-related violence to self-defense cases, have sparked discussions about crime prevention and law enforcement’s role in maintaining peace. This blog post explores recent shooting incidents in Lake City, their impact on the community, and the broader implications for residents, while addressing frequently asked questions to provide clarity on these troubling events.
Table of Contents
Recent Shooting Incidents in Lake City
Arby’s Shooting (June 2025)
On June 20, 2025, a violent shooting at an Arby’s restaurant on U.S. 90 in Lake City left one person dead and another injured. The Lake City Police Department identified the deceased as local businessman Fernando “Tic” Barr. According to reports, suspects opened fire with an assault rifle, wounding multiple individuals. Following a police chase, a state trooper performed a PIT maneuver, leading to the arrest of three suspects. This incident shocked the community, highlighting the audacity of gun violence in public spaces.
Easter Celebration Shooting (April 2025)
On April 20, 2025, a community Easter celebration at Annie Mattox Recreation Center turned chaotic when gunfire erupted, injuring Lake City Police officer Marcus Hardison in the arm. The event, attended by thousands, saw an altercation escalate, with multiple individuals firing shots into the crowd. The Lake City Police Department released video footage showing a suspect shooting while fleeing, and three individuals were taken into custody on unrelated charges. No officers discharged their weapons, countering social media rumors. The investigation continues, with authorities seeking public assistance to identify the shooter.
Home Invasion Shooting (March 2025)
In a tragic incident on March 5, 2025, 31-year-old Langston Sykes, an MMA fighter known as “Blaze,” was fatally shot during a home invasion on SW Leslie Glen. Sykes allegedly forced entry into a home where his ex-wife and children resided. An occupant, acting in self-defense, fired multiple shots, killing Sykes. The Lake City Police Department is investigating whether the shooting qualifies under Florida’s Stand Your Ground law, with no charges filed as of the latest reports. This case has sparked debate about self-defense and domestic violence.
Murder of Mariah Smith (August 2024)
In August 2024, 12-year-old Mariah Smith was killed by gunfire while sitting on her grandmother’s couch in Lake City. The shooting, not believed to have targeted her, led to the arrest of three teenagers, including 17-year-old Matthew Rice, charged with murder and attempted murder. The community honored Mariah by renaming Long Street to Mariah Reginae Smith Forever 12 Memorial Street, reflecting her lasting impact as a vibrant sixth-grader who loved to dance. This tragedy underscored the devastating effects of stray bullets in residential areas.
Gang-Related Nightclub Shooting (January 2023)
A January 2023 shooting outside the Boss Palace nightclub on NE Bonds St. was linked to a brawl between suspected rival gangs, Lyena and Fast Life. Marcus Peterson, an aspiring rapper, was arrested for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. A suspected retaliatory shooting occurred near Peterson’s family home, highlighting ongoing gang tensions in the area. The Columbia County Sheriff’s Office continues to seek additional suspects, emphasizing the challenges of addressing gang-related violence.
Community Impact and Response
These incidents have left Lake City residents grappling with fear and uncertainty. Public spaces like restaurants and community events, meant to foster unity, have become scenes of violence, eroding the sense of safety. The loss of young lives, like Mariah Smith’s, and respected figures, like Fernando Barr, has prompted calls for stronger community policing and violence prevention programs. Local authorities, including the Lake City Police Department and Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, have increased patrols and urged residents to provide information through tip lines, such as 386-719-5749 or 386-754-7099.
The community has also rallied to support victims. A GoFundMe for slain deputy Bradley Michael Link in nearby Lake County, where a separate ambush attack occurred in August 2024, reflects regional solidarity for law enforcement affected by violence. In Lake City, initiatives like street renaming and public vigils demonstrate efforts to heal and honor those lost.
Broader Implications
These shootings highlight broader issues, including gun accessibility, gang activity, and domestic disputes escalating to violence. Florida’s Stand Your Ground law, invoked in the Sykes case, remains controversial, balancing self-defense rights with the risk of lethal outcomes. Community leaders are advocating for youth programs and economic opportunities to deter crime, while law enforcement emphasizes collaboration with state agencies like the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) to address complex cases.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What happened at the Arby’s shooting in Lake City?
On June 20, 2025, a shooting at an Arby’s on U.S. 90 resulted in the death of businessman Fernando “Tic” Barr and one injury. Three suspects were arrested after a police chase involving a PIT maneuver. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities seeking public input.
Was the Easter shooting at Annie Mattox Park gang-related?
While not explicitly confirmed as gang-related, the Easter shooting on April 20, 2025, involved an altercation that escalated into gunfire, injuring officer Marcus Hardison. Multiple shooters were involved, and three individuals were detained on unrelated charges.
What is Florida’s Stand Your Ground law, and how does it apply to the home invasion case?
Florida’s Stand Your Ground law allows individuals to use lethal force if they reasonably believe their life is in danger, without a duty to retreat. In the March 2025 home invasion, the occupant who shot Langston Sykes may be protected under this law, pending investigation.
How has the community responded to Mariah Smith’s death?
The Lake City community honored 12-year-old Mariah Smith, killed in August 2024, by renaming a street in her memory. Her family and council members hope this keeps her story alive, raising awareness about gun violence.
How can residents help with ongoing investigations?
Residents can provide information to the Lake City Police Department at 386-752-4343 or the TIPS line at 386-719-2069. For the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, call 386-719-2005 or Crime Stoppers at 386-754-7099.
Conclusion
Lake City, Florida, faces significant challenges in addressing gun violence, from public shootings to domestic incidents. While law enforcement works diligently to apprehend suspects and ensure justice, the community’s resilience shines through memorials and collective action. By fostering dialogue, supporting victims, and investing in prevention, Lake City can strive toward a safer future. Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and share information to aid ongoing investigations, helping to restore peace to this close-knit community.