Tragedy struck in Leesburg, Florida, when 18-year-old Junie Gomez was fatally shot at Berry Park on December 14, 2025. The investigation into this shocking incident has led to the arrest of two 17-year-olds, whose names have been withheld due to their ages. As of March 2, they are being held without bail, facing serious charges related to the shooting.
The incident unfolded during a prearranged gun sale involving a .45-caliber handgun. Surveillance video played a crucial role in identifying the suspects, capturing four individuals entering the park around 12:22 p.m. on the day of the shooting. Witnesses reported that Gomez had met the co-defendants to “smoke” cannabis, and police later discovered text messages on Gomez’s phone that revealed negotiations for the purchase of the gun and marijuana edibles for $175.
The Details of the Incident
According to police reports, Gomez was found in a black Mazda sedan with at least one gunshot wound shortly after multiple 911 calls were made at around 1 p.m. Witnesses described seeing three individuals flee the scene, while investigators collected evidence, including a .45-caliber shell casing and a projectile from Gomez’s mother’s car. The police were able to connect the dots, linking the shooting to a planned drug deal gone wrong.
One of the co-defendants, D’yuntre Jeraun Wright, has been charged with second-degree murder, while the other, James Albert Fenderson IV, faces charges for third-degree principal to murder and illegal possession of firearms due to being a delinquent. Fenderson was wearing an ankle monitor at the time of the incident, which he later abandoned in a field. Notably, he had been charged with possession of a firearm by a delinquent less than a month prior to the shooting.
Fenderson was apprehended on February 5, 2026, where he admitted to being present during the shooting but denied arranging the gun deal. Wright was arrested shortly after on February 19, invoking his right to an attorney. Both teens are currently being held without bail, and authorities believe they conspired together to set up the meeting that led to Gomez’s tragic death.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
The shooting has left the Leesburg community in shock, raising concerns about youth violence and illegal firearms. The investigation continues as police gather further evidence, including social media interactions that suggest a pattern of illicit activity among the individuals involved. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the case to come forward and contact the Leesburg Police Department or Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS.
As we reflect on this heartbreaking event, it’s a stark reminder of the dangers associated with illegal gun sales and drug use among teens. The community is left hoping for justice for Junie Gomez and a safer environment for all its residents.
For more details on this ongoing investigation, visit the full report on Daily Commercial or check the latest updates on Fox 35 Orlando.