(Palm Bay)–An Easter Sunday shooting incident has been determined to be an act of self defense. The victim, John Smith, (DOB, 12/03/1967) will face charges involving kidnapping, burglary and battery. He is in stable condition at a local hospital. Once Smith is medically cleared he will be arrested for the criminal charges following a domestic related confrontation that led to the shooting.
At approximately 4:21 P.M. Sunday patrol officers responded to 2518 Fleming Ave. SW after receiving reports that a male had been shot at the residence. When officers arrived they located a male victim later identified as Smith, with a gunshot wound to the chest. Palm Bay Fire-Rescue treated the victim who was later airlifted to the hospital. The investigation revealed the victim had been in an argument with his girlfriend who resided at a home on Walden Street. Smith became upset with the female for attempting to end their relationship. The female told detectives Smith had held her against her will for much of the day. The female’s mother and her fiancé, identified as David Martin, 38, intervened and took the female to Martin’s home located on Fleming Ave. Smith followed the female throughout the day and later arrived at the Fleming Avenue address. Martin refused to let Smith into the residence however according to the witnesses at the home, Smith forced his way in and another altercation occurred. Fearing for his safety Martin retrieved a firearm and shot Smith once in the chest. “We believe it was an act of self defense,” said Detective Michael Pusatere. “Smith continued his aggressive behavior towards Mr. Martin and the female victim in this case. Martin took the action he felt was necessary to protect life and property.”