Leesburg Mourns Tragic Loss of 20-Year-Old Dontae D. Copeland in Fatal Shooting on Tuskegee Street
Leesburg, Florida — A deep sense of grief and shock has gripped the Leesburg community following a tragic shooting that took the life of Dontae D. Copeland, a vibrant and promising 20-year-old resident, on the evening of Saturday, June 28, 2025. The fatal incident occurred shortly after 7 p.m. along Tuskegee Street, a neighborhood now marked by sorrow and unanswered questions.
According to the Leesburg Police Department, officers responded to multiple 911 calls reporting gunshots in the area. When authorities arrived at the scene, they found Dontae suffering from critical gunshot wounds. Despite life-saving efforts by first responders and emergency medical personnel, Dontae was pronounced dead at the scene.
The investigation into the shooting is ongoing. As of Sunday morning, no arrests had been made, and detectives are working tirelessly to piece together the events that led to the young man’s untimely death. Officials have not yet released information regarding a suspect or motive, but they are asking anyone with information or surveillance footage from the area to come forward.
“We have lost a young life in a senseless act of violence,” said Leesburg Police Chief Rob Hicks. “Our hearts go out to Dontae’s family and friends. We are committed to finding answers and seeking justice for this tragedy.”
The loss of Dontae Copeland has devastated his family, friends, and the broader Leesburg community. Known for his bright personality, love for music, and unwavering loyalty to those close to him, Dontae was a young man filled with potential and dreams. He had recently spoken of pursuing trade school and starting his own business, and those who knew him say he was beginning to find his footing as a young adult.
“Dontae had the biggest heart,” said his cousin, Latasha Moore. “He was goofy, kind, protective, and always checking in on his grandma. He didn’t deserve this. None of us saw this coming.”
Neighbors described a somber atmosphere on Tuskegee Street the morning after the shooting, with many gathering in quiet solidarity. Makeshift memorials with candles, flowers, and handwritten notes have begun to appear near the site of the shooting—an expression of the community’s heartbreak and a call for peace.
Local clergy and community leaders have spoken out in the wake of the tragedy, calling for unity and renewed efforts to address gun violence and youth safety in Leesburg.
“This is another reminder that we must do more to protect our young people,” said Pastor Raymond Tillman of Greater Hope Church. “Dontae should be here today—laughing, living, building his future. Our community is in mourning, but we must also come together to create change.”
A candlelight vigil in honor of Dontae Copeland is being organized for Monday evening at Berry Park. Organizers are encouraging attendees to wear white as a symbol of peace and to bring candles, signs, and shared memories. The vigil is expected to draw many from across the city, uniting residents in collective grief and determination.
The Copeland family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support they’ve received during this difficult time. A GoFundMe page has been launched to help cover funeral expenses and provide support as the family navigates their unimaginable loss.
Dontae is survived by his mother, two younger siblings, grandparents, and a large extended family. While his life was cut short far too soon, those who loved him vow to remember him not for how he died, but for how he lived—with laughter, love, and the hope of a brighter tomorrow.
As the investigation continues, Leesburg Police urge anyone with information to contact the department at (352) 728-9860 or anonymously via Crimeline at 1-800-423-TIPS. In the meantime, a community mourns a young life lost, and the cry for justice and healing echoes across Tuskegee Street.