At a Father’s Day balloon release for Michael Easter, his young son held tightly to his balloon, wanting hold onto his dad’s memory.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — A family in Jacksonville is grieving the loss of 23-year-old Michael Easter, a father of two, who was fatally shot after a dispute erupted early Friday morning outside a nightclub.
As reported by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the incident took place shortly after a confrontation in the parking area of Elevation Lounge as the venue was closing.
Witnesses reported that Easter got into a car with another person and, moments later, gunfire rang out as the vehicle was driving away.
Police found Easter near the car at a nearby gas station on Norwood Avenue with gunshot wounds and later died.
Easter’s mother, Tracy Campbell, said her son was known for his charisma, kindness and devotion to his family.
“He left a significant impression,” Campbell noted. “He was a very courteous and respectful young man. He befriended everyone he encountered.”
Campbell described the chaos and disbelief that followed the shooting.
“We immediately went to the hospital,” she said. “It was just really crazy. It was unbelievable.”
Easter’s two young sons, ages 7 and 4, are now left clinging to memories of their father.
Family members gathered at one of Easter’s favorite fishing spots near the Oceanway Community Center to honor his memory and speak with First Coast News.
Campbell said she hopes people remember her son for the happiness he brought to others.
“Don’t forget the good, happy Michael,” she said. “Don’t focus on that night, because that night shouldn’t have happened.”
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office said the investigation is ongoing. No arrests have been made.
Elevation Lounge management told First Coast News they hate that this happened and said security asked all parties to leave the property before the shooting occurred.
Anyone with information about the shooting is urged to contact the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office.
The family has also set up a GoFundMe to help with funeral expenses. They say they are thankful for all the support so far.
