 |
Deputies responded to the Extended Stay America on Opa-Locka Lane in Destin today around 11:00 a.m. reference shots fired. Deputies say Ezekial Belcher (DOB: 4/20/93) approached his co-worker and friend (DeeCee Smith DOB: 7/10/86), both from Andalusia, Alabama, and began an argument over a past relationship with a female.
Belcher initiated a confrontation that was broken up by witnesses. Smith withdrew from the altercation and told Belcher he was too tired to fight anymore and went to his vehicle nearby to retrieve his firearm. The entire time, Belcher pursued Smith and would not retreat. Smith fired three shots, two of which hit Belcher and one hit the ground. Belcher continued to fight after being shot and Smith threw his gun away from the altercation at this point and Belcher finally left the scene with a friend in a vehicle. Smith then stayed at the scene awaiting law enforcement. Deputies were looking for the vehicle and stopped it on Hwy. 293 at Lakeshore and detained the driver and Belcher.
Smith declined to pursue charges and signed a drop charges. Belcher was flown to FWBMC in stable condition with non-life threatening injuries. Investigators responded and interviewed the suspect. Belcher admitted to the altercation and corroborated Smith’s and witness’ statements.
###
