Andrew Jeter, who served alongside David Lee in the U.S. military, wishes to honor his friend and neighbor as a devoted father and proud serviceman.
MIDDLEBURG, Fla — A 14-year-old named Trevor Lee was taken into custody on Monday and charged with two counts of second-degree murder after authorities alleged he fatally shot his parents.
First Coast News has learned that the father who was killed, David Lee, served in the U.S. Navy and was active in the local sports community.
Andrew Jeter became acquainted with David Lee over ten years ago during their time stationed in Hawaii. Jeter described him as “an incredible person, hard-working, thoroughly dedicated, and deeply respectful.”
Their friendship grew when they reconnected while living on the same street in Middleburg.
“It was a surprise to see him here,” said Jeter.
Jeter said Lee was an amazing father who coached his son’s football team and served as a Navy aviation electrician with pride.
“He supported various children who might not have been as fortunate,” Jeter noted. “He provided them rides and assisted them in their teams, that kind of thing.”
When he saw flashing lights outside Lee’s home Monday, he knew something was wrong.
David Lee and his wife, Brandi Smith, had been shot.
“Complete shock, complete shock,” he said. “I was just in utter disbelief that it happened to him.”
Trevor Lee is now charged with two counts of second-degree murder.
Former federal prosecutor Curtis Fallgatter says a decision will soon be made on whether he’ll be charged as an adult.
“At ages 14 and 15, like in his case, there are several considerations, around 16 distinct factors, that are evaluated by the State Attorney’s Office,” explained Fallgatter. “Certainly, the primary concern is the public’s interest. And in this situation, I believe the public would agree that children should not commit parricide.”
As the legal process begins, Jeter said the loss of his friend is sinking in for him and many others who knew David.
“He had a long career and impacted a lot of people, so I’m sure they’re in complete and utter shock as well.”
Trevor Lee remains in custody at the Duval County Juvenile Center. His next court date is scheduled for August 13 in Clay County.
