GRETNA, Fla. — A quiet Tuesday night in the small Gadsden County community of Gretna turned tragic when a 25-year-old man was shot and killed outside his home. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has opened an investigation into the fatal shooting, which has left residents shocked and searching for answers.
Authorities identified the victim as Zaccheus Miller, a young man whose life was cut short just steps from his front door. According to the FDLE, the shooting happened around 10:22 p.m. Tuesday on Oak Avenue, a residential street that is typically peaceful and calm.
When emergency crews arrived, they found Miller inside his vehicle, suffering from gunshot wounds. Despite immediate efforts by first responders to save his life, Miller was pronounced dead at the scene. The area was quickly cordoned off as investigators began collecting evidence and speaking with nearby residents.
Neighbors described hearing several loud gunshots before seeing flashing lights fill the street moments later. “It was terrifying,” one resident said. “We heard the shots and then saw all the police cars rushing in. Everyone around here is shaken up — this doesn’t happen often in Gretna.”
As of Wednesday morning, FDLE investigators said they had no suspect information to release. Detectives are working to determine what led to the deadly shooting and whether Miller was targeted or the victim of a random act of violence. Officials have not disclosed any potential motive.
The FDLE is urging anyone with information that could help solve the case to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously to Big Bend Crime Solvers at (850) 574-TIPS (8477). Authorities say even the smallest detail could make a critical difference in finding the person responsible for taking a young man’s life.