VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — An off-duty police officer was shot and killed Monday during a violent attack at a Circle K gas station in Ormond-by-the-Sea. Authorities identified the victim as David Jewell, a respected member of the Edgewater Police Department. The killing has left the local law enforcement community and residents in shock.
According to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, the suspect was identified as 25-year-old Eduardo Machado, who worked as a clerk at the gas station where the shooting occurred. During questioning, Machado confessed to the crime, admitting that he had fired multiple shots at Jewell with a handgun he had recently purchased. Jewell was struck several times and died at the scene.
Sheriff Mike Chitwood explained that Machado told investigators he had seen Jewell at the store before and believed the two may have argued in the past, though he could not provide specific details. Machado admitted he knew Jewell carried a firearm, which made him fearful, but never confirmed if he realized that Jewell was a police officer. When pressed about his motivation, Machado gave little reasoning, only saying he had been having “a bad day.”
Deputies also spoke with Machado’s family, who shared that he had been diagnosed with a mental disorder and sometimes claimed to hear voices. Family members described him as quiet and withdrawn, spending much of his time playing video games. Although Machado did not have a serious criminal history, authorities noted a previous incident in 2023, when he came under investigation after allegedly firing guns at Tomoka State Park. That case did not lead to major charges but was recorded in police files.
The sheriff’s office described the shooting as a targeted act of violence. Machado has been charged with first-degree murder and remains in custody as the investigation continues. Officials are working to determine whether Machado’s mental health struggles contributed to the attack. At this time, deputies say there is no evidence that Jewell was shot because of his role as a police officer.
Jewell’s sudden death has devastated colleagues, friends, and family. Sheriff Chitwood expressed condolences on behalf of the department, calling the loss “senseless and deeply disturbing.” Edgewater Police described Jewell as a dedicated officer whose service to the community will not be forgotten. Authorities said additional details, including memorial arrangements, will be shared in the coming days as the case moves forward in court.