Ocala, Fla. — A 19-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the Christmas morning shooting that claimed the life of Ja’Narre Suggs, a 21-year-old father. The Ocala Police Department announced the arrest of Curnelius A. Brown Jr. on December 31, a week after the tragic incident that left the community mourning.
The police responded to reports of gunfire around 4:10 a.m. on December 25, finding Suggs deceased from gunshot wounds at a residence on Silver Springs Place. First responders pronounced him dead at the scene.
Following the discovery, investigators quickly identified Brown as a suspect in Suggs’ shooting death. Brown now faces serious charges, including second-degree murder, unlawful possession of a machine gun, and firearm possession by a delinquent.
Suggs, who was a new father, had shared his excitement over parenthood on social media, reflecting the joy he felt in embracing his role. In a heartfelt post, Suggs’ father expressed pride in his son’s efforts to be a good parent while lamenting the circumstances surrounding his untimely death. “You were doing so good in the right lane with your life,” he wrote, emphasizing the loss of potential that comes with such violence.
This shooting marks a tragic repetition for Suggs’ family, as it occurred nearly two years after the death of his cousin, David Barron, who was fatally shot at the Paddock Mall. In that case, the alleged shooter was apprehended weeks later, a reminder of ongoing violence in the community and the lingering impact on families affected by such tragedies.
The Ocala Police Department continues to urge anyone with information regarding Suggs’ murder to reach out to Detective Quintero at the department’s main line. As the investigation unfolds, the community remains united in grief and determination to seek justice for a promising life cut short.
Local residents have begun expressing their shock over the incident, reflecting broader concerns regarding gun violence and its impact on families. Suggs’ death serves as a call for reflection and action within the community as they grapple with the loss of a devoted father and beloved member of society.